Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies Recipe

Craving a cookie that's beautiful, delicious, and perfect for any special occasion? Look no further than these Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies! Inspired by the classic Austrian Linzer torte, these sandwich cookies feature a light, buttery almond dough, filled with sweet and tart cherry preserves. With their distinctive cutout shape and dusting of powdered sugar, Linzer cookies are not only delightful to eat but also a visual treat. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a delicious snack, these cookies are sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own batch of these stunning and delicious cookies!

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What Are Linzer Cookies?

Linzer Cookies are sandwich cookies made from a buttery, nutty dough, typically flavored with ground almonds or hazelnuts. They’re traditionally filled with fruit preserves, such as raspberry or cherry, and are known for their distinctive cutout top layer, which reveals the colorful filling inside. The cookies are dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy finish, making them an especially popular treat during the holidays. In this recipe, we’re giving the classic Linzer cookie an almond and cherry twist, which brings a rich, nutty flavor and a tart yet sweet filling.

Ingredients List for Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies

The key to perfect Linzer cookies is the combination of finely ground almonds in the dough and a high-quality fruit preserve for the filling. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cookie Dough:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The main structure of the dough.
• ¾ cup finely ground almonds (or almond flour) – Adds flavor and a tender texture.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a subtle warmth to the cookies.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – For a rich, buttery flavor.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – To sweeten the dough.
• 1 large egg yolk – Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – Enhances the almond flavor.

Cherry Filling:

• ½ cup cherry preserves – Use high-quality cherry preserves or jam for the best flavor.

To Finish:

• Powdered sugar – For dusting the cookies.

Substitutions and Variations

Linzer cookies are versatile, and you can easily modify this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Gluten-Free Option – Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Dairy-Free Version – Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
3. Different Nuts – Swap the almonds for hazelnuts or pecans for a different flavor.
4. Other Fillings – Substitute cherry preserves with raspberry jam, strawberry preserves, or even apricot jam for a different flavor combination.
5. Spiced Version – Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together.
• Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to chill.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

• On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough to about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick.
• Using a round or fluted cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter), cut out as many circles as possible from the dough.
• For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter (like a star or heart shape) to cut out the center of the circles. These will be the top cookies that reveal the filling.
• Re-roll the dough scraps and continue cutting out cookies until you’ve used up all the dough.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

• Place the cookies (both solid rounds and cutout tops) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain soft.
• Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble the Linzer Cookies

• Once the cookies are completely cool, spread about ½ teaspoon of the cherry preserves onto the flat side of each solid cookie.
• Place a cookie with the cutout on top, gently pressing down to sandwich the cookies together.

Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Dust the tops of the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy, festive finish. Be careful not to get powdered sugar on the cherry filling for a neat appearance.

How to Cook Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Dough – Cream the butter and sugar, mix in the dry ingredients, and chill the dough for at least an hour.
2. Roll Out and Cut – Roll the dough, cut out rounds, and cut smaller shapes from half of them.
3. Bake the Cookies – Bake the cookies until lightly golden, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches – Spread cherry preserves on the solid cookies and top with the cutout cookies.
5. Dust with Powdered Sugar – Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Chilling the Dough – Chilling the dough is essential for easier rolling and for cookies that hold their shape during baking. Don’t skip this step.
2. Overbaking the Cookies – Linzer cookies should be soft and slightly chewy, not crunchy. Keep an eye on the cookies to prevent overbaking.
3. Filling While Warm – Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before assembling, or the cherry preserves might become runny, and the cookies won’t stay crisp.
4. Too Much Jam – Don’t overload the cookies with jam, as it can ooze out the sides and make the cookies messy. A thin layer is perfect.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Linzer cookies are beautiful and elegant, so they look great on any dessert table. Here are a few ideas to elevate your presentation:

• Dust with Powdered Sugar – Make sure to generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a festive, snowy look.
• Arrange on a Tiered Tray – For a special occasion or holiday party, arrange the cookies on a tiered serving tray for an impressive display.
• Gift Packaging – Linzer cookies make great gifts! Place a few in a decorative tin or box, separated by parchment paper, for a thoughtful, homemade present.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies

• With Coffee or Tea – Serve these delicate cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
• As a Dessert – These cookies also make a wonderful dessert at the end of a holiday meal, paired with a light dessert wine or hot cocoa.
• Cookie Swap – Bring these cookies to a cookie swap or holiday gathering and watch them disappear!

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies

1. Holiday Cookie Box – Pack the cookies in a festive box with tissue paper and ribbons for a thoughtful homemade gift.
2. Snowy Platter – Arrange the cookies on a white platter or plate to make the powdered sugar “snow” really stand out.
3. Seasonal Shapes – Use seasonal cookie cutters, like stars or snowflakes for the cutout tops, to give your cookies a holiday theme.

Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies Recipe Tips

• Use Almond Flour – If you can’t find finely ground almonds, almond flour works just as well and gives the cookies a more uniform texture.
• Chill Between Batches – If the dough becomes too soft to work with while cutting, place it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.
• Avoid Sticky Dough – Dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour as needed to prevent the dough from sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to 1 month. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting.

Q: Can I freeze the assembled cookies?
A: It’s best to freeze the cookies before assembling them. You can bake the cookies, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cookies and fill them with preserves.

Q: How long do Linzer cookies last?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Linzer cookies will last for about 5 days. If they contain a fresh fruit filling, it’s best to refrigerate them, where they’ll keep for up to 1 week.

Q: Can I use other jams or fillings?
A: Absolutely! Linzer cookies are versatile and can be filled with a variety of jams, such as raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or even orange marmalade.

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies are a beautiful and delicious treat that’s perfect for any special occasion, especially during the holidays. With their delicate almond-flavored dough, sweet cherry preserves, and elegant powdered sugar finish, these cookies are sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as a gift, or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, Linzer cookies are a delightful treat. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these lovely cookies! Happy baking!

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