Homemade Linzer Cookies with Cherry Jam Recipe

If you have a soft spot for delicate, buttery treats that combine nostalgic charm and irresistible flavor, then this Homemade Linzer Cookies with Cherry Jam Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These sandwich cookies, with their crisp almond-infused dough and a luscious burst of cherry jam peeking through a delightful cut-out, bring the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Each bite offers a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making them as captivating to look at as they are to savor. Whether for holiday gift-giving, teatime smiles, or simply personal delight, these cookies are a timeless classic everyone should experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this recipe is wonderfully straightforward, with each component playing a crucial role in bringing out the signature texture, taste, and visual appeal of these Linzer cookies. From rich butter that ensures flakiness to the almond flour that adds depth and tenderness, every ingredient is essential for that perfect cookie experience.

• Unsalted butter: Using room temperature butter helps create a smooth, creamy dough that’s easy to work with and bakes into tender cookies.
• Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s light, crumbly texture.
• Large egg: Adds moisture and binds ingredients, helping the dough hold together perfectly.
• Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the dough that gives structure and holds everything together.
• Almond flour: Adds a delightful nuttiness and tender crumb unique to Linzer cookies.
• Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture without puffing up too much.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
• Powdered sugar: Used for dusting, it adds sweetness and makes those cut-out tops look extra inviting.
• Cherry jam: The star filling, its vibrant ruby color and sweet-tart flavor create a beautiful contrast and luscious bite.

How to Make Homemade Linzer Cookies with Cherry Jam Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together in a stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process aerates the butter, ensuring your cookies will have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, incorporate the large egg and pure vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar. Mixing these in carefully helps bind your dough and infuses it with subtle sweetness and fragrant warmth.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly gives your dough an even texture and helps your cookies bake perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of your bowl to avoid any uneven pockets of flour and ensure a smooth dough ready to chill.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, and pop them in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut without sticking or losing its shape.

Step 6: Roll Out and Cut Shapes

Lightly flour your surface, then roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters—circles, stars, trees—and cut out 36 shapes total. Remember, half of these will have a smaller shape cut out from the center to create the iconic Linzer cookie window.

Step 7: Second Chilling

Place the cut cookies onto parchment-lined baking sheets and chill them again in the freezer or fridge for 30 minutes. This extra chill helps prevent spreading during baking, keeping your cookies beautifully defined.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes. Watch for a gentle golden edge—the sign your Linzer cookies have developed the perfect crispness while staying tender inside.

Step 9: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once baked and cooled on the tray, dust the cookie tops that have the cut-out centers generously with powdered sugar. This adds a snowy contrast to the vibrant cherry jam and those delicate windows.

Step 10: Assemble with Cherry Jam

Spread about a tablespoon of cherry jam on the uncut whole cookies. Gently sandwich each with a powdered sugar-topped cookie, letting the rich red jam peek through the charming windows, completing these edible works of art.

How to Serve Homemade Linzer Cookies with Cherry Jam Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flourish can make serving even more fun. Sprinkle additional powdered sugar just before serving for a fresh look. You might also consider a tiny mint leaf or edible flower atop each cookie to bring a pop of color and elegance to your presentation.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages like cocoa, chai tea, or a classic latte. Offering a cup alongside your Linzer cookies transforms them from a simple snack into a cozy treat that comforts and delights any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange your Linzer cookies in a decorative tin layered with parchment paper, or stack them prettily on a tiered dessert stand. Wrap stacks in cellophane tied with ribbon if gifting—nothing says homemade love quite like these charming cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Linzer cookies will stay fresh for up to a week. Keep them separated with wax paper to preserve the delicate powdered sugar dusting and prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze Linzer cookies either baked or unbaked. For baked cookies, freeze in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature. Unbaked dough discs can also be frozen wrapped tightly and thawed overnight before rolling and cutting.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these cookies since they’re best enjoyed at room temperature. However, if you prefer a slightly warm cookie, pop them in a low oven for just a few minutes—watch carefully so the jam doesn’t melt too much!

FAQs

Can I use other types of jam besides cherry?

Absolutely! Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jams work wonderfully as well, providing that signature fruity burst while complementing the nutty cookie base.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the dough before and after cutting is key. The cold dough holds its shape better when baked, ensuring crisp edges and pretty cut-outs.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum, you can create gluten-free Linzer cookies that maintain their tender texture.

Why is almond flour important in this recipe?

Almond flour adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps create that characteristic tender, crumbly texture unique to Linzer cookies.

How long do these cookies keep their best flavor?

For optimal freshness, enjoy your cookies within a week. The powdered sugar may fade over time, and the jam’s moisture can subtly affect the cookie’s texture if stored too long.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to dive into this Homemade Linzer Cookies with Cherry Jam Recipe and create some sweet magic in your kitchen. They’re truly a joy to make and even more of a delight to share. Once you’ve tasted these tender, jam-filled treasures, I promise they’ll become a beloved staple for celebrations or everyday moments alike.

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