The Best Linzer Cookies Recipe: Buttery, Festive & Easy to Make

Linzer cookies are the crown jewels of any holiday cookie tray. Originating in Austria, these delicate, jam-filled sandwich cookies combine a buttery shortbread base with a fruity center and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, Linzer cookies offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This Linzer cookies recipe is not only authentic and flavorful, but also adaptable — including a nut-free variation and multiple jam filling options.

Why You’ll Love These Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are the perfect combination of elegance and ease. Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:

• Buttery & Tender Texture: Thanks to almond flour and cornstarch, these cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• Jam-Filled Center: The tangy-sweet jam balances the richness of the cookie.
• Nut-Free Option: Can be made without nuts for allergy-friendly baking.
• Festive Appearance: Their cut-out window design and powdered sugar finish make them visually stunning.
• Versatile Fillings: From raspberry jam to Nutella or chocolate ganache, you can customize your cookies easily.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Linzer Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Adds rich flavor and contributes to the tender texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of molasses and depth.
• Ground Cinnamon (optional): Offers a subtle warmth and spice.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cookie’s aroma and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The main structural ingredient for the dough.
• Almond Flour: Adds nuttiness and a delicate crumb.
• Cornstarch: Keeps the cookie light and soft.
• Salt: Balances and enhances all flavors.
• Raspberry Jam: Traditional filling that brings tartness and color.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Adds a snowy, elegant finish.

Ingredient Substitutions & Nut-Free Version

Don’t have almond flour or need to skip nuts? Here are some easy swaps:

• Nut-Free Dough: Omit almond flour and increase cornstarch to ¼ cup (32g). This keeps the cookies tender while avoiding allergens.
• Alternative Fillings: Swap raspberry jam with strawberry, black currant, apricot, or even chocolate ganache, dulce de leche, or Nutella for a richer twist.
• Cinnamon-Free: Simply leave it out if you prefer a more neutral flavor.

How to Make Linzer Cookies – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cream Butter & Sugars
   Beat softened butter with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon (if using) until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour (or extra cornstarch for nut-free), cornstarch, and salt.
3. Form the Dough
   Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined. Don’t over-mix. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat Oven
   Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Roll & Cut
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc to ⅛-inch thick. Cut into 2.5-inch rounds. For half of the cookies, cut small shapes (hearts, stars, etc.) in the center to create a “window.”
6. Bake
   Bake cookies for 9–10 minutes, or until edges just start to turn golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Assemble the Cookies
   Dust the top cookies (with cutouts) with powdered sugar. Place a teaspoon of jam on the bottom halves (without cutouts) and gently press the tops on to sandwich.

Pro Tips for Perfect Linzer Cookies

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dry, crumbly dough.
• Don’t Overwork Dough: Over-mixing can warm the butter too much, resulting in sticky dough.
• Chill Time Matters: Chilled dough rolls out easier and prevents spreading during baking.
• Dust First: Always dust powdered sugar on the top cookies before assembling, so the jam window stays clear.
• Even Baking: Bake cookies with and without cutouts on separate trays to ensure they bake evenly.

Creative Variations & Serving Ideas

• Flavored Jams: Mix it up with fig, cherry, or blueberry preserves.
• Chocolate-Lovers: Swap jam for chocolate ganache or Nutella.
• Citrusy Touch: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a fragrant twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
• Make-Ahead: Store baked cookies (unfilled) in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Storing & Making Ahead

• Storage: Once assembled, Linzer cookies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for 3–5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate.
• Make in Advance: You can prepare and refrigerate the dough up to 5 days ahead. If too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temp for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
• Freezing: Both unbaked dough and fully baked, unassembled cookies freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.

A Cookie with Cultural Charm

Linzer cookies are more than just a sweet treat — they carry with them the tradition of Austrian baking, born from the famed Linzer Torte. With their festive appearance and delightful flavor, these cookies bring a piece of old-world charm to modern holiday tables. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or simply baking for joy, this Linzer cookies recipe is a perfect way to share beauty and sweetness with every bite.

Wrapping Up: A Timeless Treat for Every Occasion

Linzer cookies aren’t just holiday sweets — they’re a celebration of elegance, flavor, and tradition in every bite. With their crisp, buttery texture and jam-filled centers, they offer a balanced sweetness that delights guests and satisfies seasonal cravings. Whether you stick with the classic raspberry filling or experiment with chocolate or citrus flavors, Linzer cookies are endlessly customizable and guaranteed to impress. Their visual appeal, tender crumb, and heritage roots make them a standout on any dessert table — not just for the holidays, but year-round.

If you’re ready to master a show-stopping cookie that’s both easy and impressive, this Linzer cookies recipe is the one to bookmark and bake again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions about Linzer Cookies

How do I keep Linzer cookies from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, let the cookies cool completely before assembling. Also, only add the jam filling shortly before serving if storing for more than a day or two. You can store the unassembled cookies and jam separately for the best texture.

Can I freeze Linzer cookies?
Yes! You can freeze unassembled cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Let them come to room temperature before assembling with jam. Avoid freezing assembled cookies, as the jam may affect texture during thawing.

Do Linzer cookies need to be refrigerated?
Linzer cookies don’t need refrigeration if you’re serving them within 3–5 days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage or if your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them to keep the jam fresh.

Can I use cookie cutters in different shapes for Linzer cookies?
Absolutely. While traditional Linzer cookies use a round cutter with a center window (like a heart or star), you can get creative with your favorite shapes. Just make sure each cookie has a matching top and bottom.

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