Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe

Oh, I absolutely love sharing this Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe because it’s like biting into a little moment of happiness. You get the perfect balance of a soft, buttery cookie with just the right touch of sweetness, all wrapped up with a fruity jam center that makes every bite sing. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you want to treat yourself and your loved ones, these cookies never disappoint.

When I first tried this Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe, I was amazed at how approachable it was — no scary techniques, just straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find that not only do these cookies taste amazing, but making them becomes a fun kitchen ritual, especially if you get the kids involved with cutting out your favorite shapes. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to recipe for every festive season and cozy afternoon snack.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe plays a key role in delivering that classic Linzer flavor and texture. Using good-quality butter and real vanilla makes a big difference, so don’t skip on those details!

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt level perfectly and ensures the dough is tender.
• Granulated sugar: This sweetens the dough nicely without overpowering the jam filling.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and heightens all the flavors.
• Large eggs: Eggs bind the dough and add richness for that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Almond extract: A little almond extract is a game-changer—it gives those classic Linzer cookies a subtle, nutty aroma.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base for these cookies; be sure to measure correctly for best results.
• Raspberry or strawberry jam: Choose your favorite! I love raspberry for its tartness, but strawberry is a nice sweet alternative.
• Powdered sugar: For that final dusting that not only looks beautiful but adds an extra hint of sweetness.

Variations

One of the best things about this Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe is how easily it adapts to your personal taste. I love swapping out jams or trying different shapes depending on the time of year—it’s a fun way to make the recipe your own!

• Different Jam Flavors: From apricot to blueberry, I switched up the jam a few times and found each brings a unique twist to the classic cookie.
• Nutty Addition: Adding finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts into the dough gives a delightful crunch that my family adored.
• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve experimented with gluten-free flour blends, and while the texture changes slightly, the cookies still turn out deliciously soft.
• Mini Size: Making mini Linzer cookies is perfect for parties or as bite-sized treats for afternoon tea.

How to Make Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

First things first—grab your stand mixer with a paddle attachment and cream together the butter, sugar, and salt until the mix looks light and fluffy. This part is essential because it helps make the dough tender and airy, giving you that perfect soft texture. I usually take around 3-4 minutes here, and you can tell it’s ready when the mixture looks pale and a bit puffier than when you started.

Step 2: Adding Eggs and Flavorings

Next, add in your eggs along with vanilla and almond extracts. Mix it all thoroughly until the dough comes together smoothly. The almond extract isn’t always common in cookie recipes, but trust me—it’s that subtle ingredient that makes these Linzer cookies stand out with that authentic nutty aroma.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Slow your mixer down to low and gradually add in the all-purpose flour. You want to combine everything evenly but be careful not to overmix. I discovered this trick because overworking the dough can make the cookies tough—so when the flour is just mixed in and you see it pull away from the sides, stop mixing and move on.

Step 4: Rolling Out and Chilling the Dough

Dump the dough onto a large piece of parchment paper, then lay another sheet on top. Use your rolling pin to flatten the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Here’s where I found chilling it before cutting is crucial—it firms the dough up so you get clean, crisp cookie edges and prevents spreading. Pop the dough (still between parchment sheets) onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

Step 5: Cutting, Freezing, and Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line another baking sheet with parchment. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes—half plain circles and half with the heart-shaped cutout in the center is what I always do. Here’s a fun tip: putting your cut cookies in the freezer for 3-5 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape better. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching closely to keep edges from browning. Let them cool on a wire rack before assembling.

Step 6: Assembling the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled, dust the cutout tops with powdered sugar—it makes them look so inviting and festive. Spread a generous amount of your chosen jam on the plain cookie halves, then sandwich the powdered sugar hearts on top. This part is always the most fun for me; your kitchen will smell amazing, and before you know it, those beautiful, soft, and sweet Linzer cookies are ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I keep it simple and love decorating the top cookie with a generous dusting of powdered sugar—it adds a light sweetness and makes these cookies look like they belong in a bakery window. For festive occasions, I sometimes add a few fresh raspberries or edible flowers on the serving plate for color and flair.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea, a mild coffee, or even a sparkling glass of champagne during holidays. If you’re serving them at a brunch or dessert table, a light fruit salad on the side balances the sweet richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve arranged these Linzer cookies in pretty gift boxes layered with parchment paper—they make gorgeous homemade gifts! Another trick is stacking them into clear jars with a ribbon tied around—instantly festive and perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge—this keeps them fresh and soft for up to a week. I learned that room temperature storage tends to dry these cookies out, so refrigeration is key to preserving that lovely tender texture long-term.

Freezing

I’ve frozen both the unbaked dough and assembled cookies with great success. For the dough, just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight and roll out as usual. For assembled cookies, freeze in a single layer on parchment, then transfer to airtight bags. They thaw quickly and taste just as delicious!

Reheating

If you want to warm up refrigerated or frozen Linzer cookies, just pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes—not too long or you’ll lose softness. I find this refreshes their texture and makes the jam slightly melty again, which is absolutely delicious.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies Recipe has become one of my favorites — partly because it’s so nostalgic, and partly because it never fails to wow everyone who tries it. I love sharing it with friends—it’s like handing them a little bite of happiness. So when you have a moment to bake, give it a whirl. I promise you’ll enjoy not just how they turn out, but how much fun it is making them!

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