Raspberry Linzer Cookies
Ingredients
- 300g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 125g (1 cup) ground almonds or almond meal
- 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- 2g (1/4 tsp) ground cinnamon
- 1g (1/8 tsp) salt
- 120g (1/2 cup) raspberry preserves
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful exploration in the world of Linzer Cookies, a treat that brings together elements of pastry and jam in a symphony of flavor and texture. These Raspberry Linzer Cookies are a perfect celebration of buttery, nutty dough cradling sweet, tangy raspberry preserves. Originating from Austria’s Linz region, these cookies are a charming addition to any holiday dessert spread or an everyday sweet indulgence. Follow this detailed recipe to create a batch that is sure to captivate the taste buds of all who indulge!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Electric Mixer
- Rubber Spatula
- Rolling Pin
- Cookie Cutters (round or fluted)
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Cooling Rack
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter mixture (150g of granulated sugar) and beat until well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Chilling is crucial for maintaining the shape of the cookies during baking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and burning.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Remove one disc of dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thickness. Use a round or fluted cookie cutter to cut out shapes, then use a smaller cutter to cut a hole in the center of half the cookies (this will be the top cookie).
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to brown. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely.
Step 6: Assemble the Linzer Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, spread about 1 teaspoon of raspberry preserves on the flat side of each solid cookie. Top with the cut-out cookies, pressing gently to sandwich them together. Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
Conclusion
Congratulations on crafting these beautiful and delectable Raspberry Linzer Cookies! Their refined textures and vibrant flavor make them an exceptional treat for any occasion. Perfectly capturing the balance between tender almond-infused shortbread and luscious raspberry filling, these cookies will surely become a tradition in your kitchen. Pair them with a favorite tea or coffee for exquisite indulgence and watch your loved ones delight in each bite!
