Linzer Cookies

Delightful Linzer Cookies: A Christmas Tradition

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to dust off our aprons and embrace the joy of baking. Among the plethora of festive treats, Linzer cookies stand out as a beloved tradition in many households. These delightful sandwich cookies, with their intricate designs and vibrant jam fillings, are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of Linzer cookies and provide you with a scrumptious recipe to recreate these seasonal delights in your own kitchen.

A Brief History of Linzer Cookies:

Originating from the Austrian city of Linz, Linzer cookies hold a special place in the heart of European Christmas traditions. The recipe for these cookies dates back to the 17th century, making them a cherished classic that has stood the test of time. Originally known as “Linzer Augen” or “Linzer Eyes,” these cookies were named for their resemblance to traditional Austrian lattice windows.

Traditionally, Linzer cookies were enjoyed during the holiday season, particularly around Christmas time. Their delicate flavored dough, paired with a generous dollop of fruity jam, made them a festive favorite among families and friends. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and adapted to various cultural preferences, but the essence of Linzer cookies remains the same – a symbol of warmth, togetherness, and celebration.

Recipe for Linzer Cookies (55 cookie sandwiches):

Now, let’s dive into the kitchen and whip up a batch of these delectable Linzer cookies. With a few simple ingredients and a sprinkle of holiday magic, you’ll have a tray of irresistible treats to share with your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of butter (softened)
• 1 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups of all purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 tsp of lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp of baking soda
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1/3 cup of buttermilk (or yoghurt with milk)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Fruit jam (for filling)

• 2 baking sheets
• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups / spoons
• Electric mixer
• Rolling pin with spacer
• Cookie cutters
• Wire (cooling) rack
• Fine mesh strainer

Directions:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar using a hand-held electric mixer until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and buttermilk to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat until well combined.

• In a separate medium bowl, mix together the sifted flour, lemon zest, baking soda, and salt.

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

• On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch, using a rolling pin with spacer to ensure even thickness.
• Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the dough – one solid cookie for the bottom of the sandwich and one cookie with a window for the top.

• Carefully transfer the cut-out shapes to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. (Tip: I cut the upper cookie “window” on the baking sheet, this way it doesn’t get miss-shaped during the transfer).

• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, or until they are very pale and just barely pink on the bottom.

• Once baked, transfer the cookies to a cooling wire rack and allow them to cool completely.

• To assemble the Linzer cookies, dust the top cookies (those with the window) with powdered sugar using a fine mesh strainer.

• Spread a generous layer of fruit jam onto the bottom cookies, leaving a slightly thicker layer in the center to prevent squishing when sandwiched.

• Serve and enjoy your homemade Linzer cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite festive beverage!

Conclusion:

Linzer cookies are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a symbol of holiday cheer and timeless tradition. Whether enjoyed as part of a festive spread or given as gifts to friends and family, these delightful Christmas cookies are sure to bring joy to all who taste them. So why not add a touch of Austrian charm to your holiday baking this year with a batch of homemade Linzer cookies? Happy baking and Merry Christmas!

Enjoy our other Christmas cookies, such as Mocha circles cookies, Rum balls or Chocolate Fudge. Or indulge on Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies.