Description
Raspberry Linzer Cookies are a delightful, buttery treat that combines a rich almond cookie with a sweet, tart raspberry filling. These classic cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to a sweet snack with your afternoon tea. Their delicate texture and vibrant raspberry jam center make them an irresistible dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
For the cookies:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional, for enhanced almond flavor)
For the raspberry filling:
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves (smooth, with no seeds)
For dusting:
- Powdered sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the cookie dough:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
- Roll out the dough:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter), cut out as many cookies as you can. Then, using a smaller cutter (a heart, star, or any shape you prefer), cut out the center of half of the cookies to create a window for the raspberry filling.
- Bake the cookies:
- Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Assemble the cookies:
- Once the cookies have cooled, spread a small spoonful of raspberry jam on the flat side of the solid cookies (the ones without the center cut out).
- Place the cookies with the cut-out centers on top of the jam-covered cookies, pressing down lightly to sandwich them together.
- Dust with powdered sugar:
- Lightly dust the tops of the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Enjoy these delicate and delicious raspberry Linzer cookies with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat for any occasion.
Notes
- If you prefer a smoother filling, you can strain the raspberry jam to remove any seeds.
- You can also use other fruit jams like strawberry, apricot, or blueberry for a different flavor.
- These cookies are perfect for gifting or adding to a holiday cookie platter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European, Austrian-Inspired
Keywords: Raspberry Linzer cookies, almond cookies, jam-filled cookies, holiday cookies, Linzer cookies, raspberry dessert, sandwich cookies