Red Currant Jam Linzer Cookies
Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes
Delicate and buttery, these Red Currant Jam Linzer Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion.
These Linzer cookies are inspired by traditional Austrian recipes. The tartness of the red currant jam perfectly balances the sweetness of the buttery cookie, making them irresistible!
Why You Will Love These Cookies
- Buttery and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
- Tangy red currant jam adds a unique flavor twist
- Beautifully festive and perfect for gifting
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Red Currant Jam Linzer Cookies are not just a delectable dessert; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. Their buttery, crumbly consistency makes them an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing a picnic, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies are certain to impress.
The vibrant red currant jam brings a delightful tanginess that perfectly complements the sweet, rich cookie base. This unique flavor combination elevates the cookies from simple to spectacular, making them a standout choice for both casual and festive occasions.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Red Currant Jam Linzer Cookies, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before you start mixing. This will help create a light and fluffy dough that holds together beautifully. When rolling out the dough, use a generous amount of flour on your surface to prevent sticking, allowing for easy shaping and cutting.
Chilling the dough is a crucial step that cannot be overlooked. It firms up the butter, making it easier to handle and ensuring that your cookies maintain their shape during baking. If time allows, you can chill the dough for longer than 30 minutes for even better results.
Storing and Gifting
These delightful cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy their buttery goodness over several days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to restore their delicious texture.
Linzer Cookies make for an exceptional gift! Pack them in a decorative box or a glass jar tied with a ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, homemade present for friends and family. Their charming appearance and unique flavor will surely make any recipient feel special.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Filling
- 1 cup red currant jam
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Make sure to use high-quality red currant jam for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder, mixing well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll and Cut the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
Bake
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Assemble the Cookies
Spread a teaspoon of red currant jam on the whole cookies and top with the ones that have cut-outs. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy these delightful cookies with a cup of tea!
Understanding Red Currants
Red currants are small, tart berries that pack a punch of flavor. These vibrant fruits are often used in jams, jellies, and desserts due to their refreshing taste and striking color. They are also rich in vitamins C and K, making them a healthy addition to your baking repertoire.
Incorporating red currant jam into your Linzer Cookies not only enhances their taste but also adds a beautiful pop of color. If you can’t find red currant jam, feel free to substitute it with other berry jams like raspberry or cranberry for a different yet equally delicious flavor.
Variations to Try
While red currant jam is a classic choice for these cookies, don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings. Try using apricot, strawberry, or even a spiced apple jam for a delightful twist. Each variation brings its unique flair, allowing you to customize the cookies to suit your taste or the season.
Additionally, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for an extra hint of warmth and flavor. These subtle enhancements can make your Linzer cookies even more appealing, creating a memorable treat for everyone.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different jam?
Yes, feel free to substitute red currant jam with any fruit jam of your choice.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
→ What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
Red Currant Jam Linzer Cookies
Delicate and buttery, these Red Currant Jam Linzer Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Classic Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Filling
- 1 cup red currant jam
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder, mixing well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Use a smaller cutter to cut out the center of half of the cookies.
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Spread a teaspoon of red currant jam on the whole cookies and top with the ones that have cut-outs. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 2g