If you’re looking for a delicious, elegant cookie to make for the holidays or a special occasion, these Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies are sure to impress. With a nutty almond base and a sweet cherry filling, they’re a delightful twist on the classic Linzer cookie. This recipe is packed with flavor and texture, and we’ll take you through every step to ensure your cookies turn out beautifully. Follow along for the ingredients, substitutions, variations, and all the tips you need to create the perfect batch of Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies!
What are Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies?
Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies are a delightful variation of traditional Austrian Linzer cookies, which are typically made with a ground nut dough and filled with jam. In this version, ground almonds give the cookies a slightly nutty flavor and tender texture, while cherry preserves add a sweet and tart filling. The cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar and have a small cut-out on the top layer, showing a hint of the jam underneath. These cookies are not only delicious but also beautiful, making them a popular choice for holidays and celebrations.
Ingredients List for Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (100g) almond flour (finely ground almonds)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds extra almond flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cherry preserves (or cherry jam, for filling)
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to personalize your Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies or need to make some adjustments, here are a few ideas:
- Almond Flour Substitute: If you don’t have almond flour, you can make your own by grinding blanched almonds in a food processor until fine. You could also use hazelnut or pecan flour for a different nutty flavor.
- Cherry Preserves: Swap cherry preserves with raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam if you prefer different flavors. Blackberry jam also pairs wonderfully with the almond base.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Vegan Variation: Use a vegan butter substitute and replace the egg yolk with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit until it gels).
- Spices: Add a hint of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make these beautiful cookies!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugars (both granulated and powdered) until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is essential for a firm dough that’s easier to roll out and will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round or scalloped cookie cutter (2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to create a “window” in the center.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to be tender and slightly soft. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 7: Assemble the Cookies
Spread a small amount of cherry preserves on the flat side of each whole cookie. Place a cookie with a “window” on top, pressing gently. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
How to Cook Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
This guide ensures you’ll get the best results for your Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies every time!
- Gather Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Mix the butter and sugars until light and fluffy for a tender cookie base.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling – it prevents spreading and makes the dough easier to handle.
- Use Parchment Paper: Parchment paper helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
- Cool Completely Before Assembling: Warm cookies can cause the jam to melt and the cookies to slide apart, so let them cool fully before adding the jam filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is crucial for firm, well-shaped cookies. Without chilling, the dough may spread too much and lose shape.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing activates the gluten, making cookies tougher. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Overbaking: These cookies should be light in color, with only the edges slightly golden. Overbaking will make them hard instead of tender.
- Using Too Much Jam: A thin layer of jam is best. Too much jam can cause it to squeeze out when you press the top cookie on, creating a mess.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Linzer cookies are as beautiful as they are tasty! For a stunning presentation:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance and makes them look bakery-quality.
- Use a Decorative Plate: Arrange the cookies on a festive or decorative plate for a holiday-themed presentation.
- Gift Wrap: These cookies make a lovely homemade gift. Place them in a decorative tin or wrap in cellophane with a ribbon.
How to Serve Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies
Serve Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as an afternoon treat. Arrange them on a plate and watch them disappear!
Presentation Ideas for Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies
For a unique presentation, try these ideas:
- Holiday-Themed Cutouts: Use small cookie cutters in shapes like stars, hearts, or holiday symbols to create the center cutouts.
- Edible Glitter: Lightly brush the cookies with edible glitter for a festive touch.
- Mix of Jam Flavors: Make a batch with different jams for a colorful assortment, such as cherry, raspberry, and apricot.
Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies Recipe Tips
To make sure your Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies turn out perfectly:
- Make Ahead: You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. This is great for planning ahead during the busy holiday season.
- Freeze for Later: These cookies freeze well. Freeze in a single layer before filling, and defrost before assembling with jam.
- Test the Cutout Size: Ensure the cutout is large enough to showcase the jam but small enough that the top cookie remains sturdy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different nuts for the dough?
A: Absolutely! Hazelnuts or pecans work well and provide a unique flavor twist.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you plan to keep them longer, store them without the jam and add it just before serving.
Q: Do I need to refrigerate the cookies after assembling?
A: It’s not necessary, but if you live in a warm climate, refrigerating can help prevent the jam from becoming too runny.
Conclusion
These Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a buttery almond cookie with a sweet and tart cherry filling. Perfect for the holidays, special occasions, or whenever you want a show-stopping cookie, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Follow the step-by-step guide, avoid common mistakes, and use the tips and variations provided to make these cookies your own. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these beautiful cookies!
PrintCherry Almond Linzer Cookies Recipe
Cherry Almond Linzer Cookies bring together a classic nutty almond cookie base with a delightful cherry filling, creating a beautiful, delicious treat ideal for holiday gatherings or special celebrations. With finely ground almonds enhancing the cookie’s texture and flavor, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are as festive as they are irresistible.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ½ cup cherry preserves
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add egg and almond extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until dough forms. Chill dough for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough to ¼ inch thickness and cut out cookies with a round cutter.
- Cut a smaller circle from the centers of half the cookies to create the tops.
- Bake cookies on a lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool on a rack.
- Spread cherry preserves on the bottom cookies, and top with cut-out cookies. Dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
- For even more almond flavor, toast the almond flour slightly before mixing.
- Substitute cherry preserves with raspberry or apricot jam for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 40mg
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