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Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies

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Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies are almond-flavored, jam-filled treats with a festive look that are perfect for any special occasion. With their tender, nutty cookie base, sweet jam center, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are reminiscent of the classic Linzer Torte from Austria, making them a delightful addition to your holiday or Valentine’s Day celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp almond extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup raspberry or strawberry jam (seedless is preferred)

For the Dusting:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until fully incorporated.
  4. Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined.

2. Chill the Dough:

  1. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
  2. Place each portion between two sheets of parchment paper and roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
  3. Refrigerate the rolled dough for 20 minutes to firm up.

3. Cut and Bake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out cookies from the dough.
  4. For half of the cookies, use a smaller heart-shaped cutter to cut out the center, creating a window effect.
  5. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for an additional 5 minutes before baking.
  6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  7. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Assemble the Cookies:

  1. Spread a teaspoon of jam on the center of the solid cookies.
  2. Place the cookies with the heart-shaped window on top, gently pressing to adhere.
  3. Dust the top cookies with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve.

5. Serve:

  • Enjoy these sweet and elegant cookies with a cup of tea or coffee.

Notes

  • Different Fillings: Substitute raspberry jam with other jams like apricot, blueberry, or even Nutella for a unique twist.
  • Nutty Addition: Add finely chopped almonds to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
  • Citrus Zest: Add 1 tsp lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy note.
  • Chocolate Twist: Fill with chocolate hazelnut spread for a chocolaty take on these cookies.