Linzer Cookies with Blackberry Jam

Name: Linzer Cookies with Blackberry Jam
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Austrian
Ingredients: 2 1/2 sticks salted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling); 1/2 cup ground slivered almonds; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 cup blackberry jam (or your favorite jam); Powdered sugar (for dusting); Cookie cutters (1 1/2 inches for bases, 3/4 inches for cutouts)

By:

Sarah

Published:

November 27, 2025

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Linzer cookies with blackberry jam are a delightful nod to tradition, combining flavors and textures that create a heavenly treat. Picture this: buttery, crumbly cookies paired with a sweet and slightly tart jam, making them irresistible. Whether you bake these for a festive occasion or just because you want a tasty snack, they deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. The best part? The rich history behind them adds a unique charm, inviting you to share this special dessert with family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let’s enjoy the journey of creating Linzer cookies that will surely delight your taste buds!

Why This Recipe Works

Linzer cookies are renowned for their delightful texture and rich flavor, and the addition of blackberry jam elevates them to new heights. By combining buttery dough with ground almonds and warm spices, these cookies not only taste amazing but also create a festive appearance that captivates both the eyes and the palate. With every layer complemented by that luscious berry spread, it’s hard not to love them.

Why You’ll Love This Linzer Cookies with Blackberry Jam

These Linzer cookies are perfect for any occasion, be it a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon treat. The sweet and tart blackberry jam seamlessly complements the cookie’s tender crumb, making every bite a blissful combination of flavors. Plus, they are a visual delight, making them ideal for sharing and impressing guests. Trust me, once you make these cookies, you’ll find excuses to bake them again and again!

Ingredients for Linzer Cookies with Blackberry Jam

2 1/2 sticks salted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)
1/2 cup ground slivered almonds
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup blackberry jam (or your favorite jam)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Cookie cutters (1 1/2 inches for bases, 3/4 inches for cutouts)

Making Your Linzer Cookies with Blackberry Jam

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color. It’s such an essential step that sets the stage for the delicious treats to come.

Whip the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, whip the softened butter until smooth. Then, gradually add in the granulated sugar and mix until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 5 minutes. It’s like creating a cloud that will form the base of your cookies!

Combine Dry Ingredients

While the butter and sugar are working their magic, in a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This spice combination adds depth to the flavor of your cookies, making them even more aromatic and inviting.

Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients

Next, use a spatula to gently incorporate the dry mixture into the butter-sugar blend. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. You want it to come together beautifully without turning tough.

Chill the Dough

Now, divide your dough into three sections. Place each section onto a floured piece of wax paper and cover with another floured sheet. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out. Chilling is key here; it ensures your cookies keep their shape while baking.

Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, roll each batch of dough to about 1/8 inch thickness on a well-floured surface. This prevents sticking and ensures a perfect shape. Remember to keep the flour handy, as it will help in creating those beautiful cookie forms.

Cut Out the Cookie Shapes

Using the larger 1 1/2 inch cookie cutter, cut out as many base cookies as possible. Collect any scraps, form them into a ball, and roll out again to create additional cookies. For half of the cookies, use the smaller 3/4 inch cutter to punch out the centers. Having those little holes adds a whimsical touch!

Bake the Cookies

Carefully place the cookie shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until lightly brown. Check for doneness around the 11-minute mark to ensure they don’t overbake. It’s always better to peek early, just in case!

Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the pan before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. Make sure they are completely cool before proceeding to the next step. Rushing here can lead to a jammy mess!

Assemble with Jam

Once completely cooled, spoon about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of blackberry jam onto each bottom cookie and gently place a cut-out cookie on top to create the sandwich effect. It’s like a sweet little hug bringing the flavors together.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

For the grand finale, finish by lightly dusting the assembled cookies with powdered sugar, adding a beautiful touch to these delectable treats. This final step elevates them from delicious to downright stunning!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Linzer cookies on a festive platter during holiday gatherings, with coffee or tea during afternoon breaks, or as a sweet treat in lunchboxes. The versatility in serving is part of the fun; they fit in anywhere!

Tips for Success

Ensure your butter is softened for easier blending.
Use plenty of flour when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.
Keep a close eye on the cookies as baking times can vary.

Variations

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, experiment with different jams like raspberry or strawberry, or add a touch of lemon zest to the dough for extra flavor. For a chocolate twist, incorporate cocoa powder into half the dough. There’s no wrong way to craft these lovely cookies!

Storage Tips

Store your Linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If making in advance, consider keeping the jam and cookies separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness. This way, they’ll always taste delectable!

Pairing Ideas

These lovely cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, a glass of milk, or a dessert wine. They also make an excellent addition to a cookie platter for festive occasions. Consider them the perfect accompaniment to a cozy evening.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use other types of jam instead of blackberry?
A: Absolutely! Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam also work beautifully in this recipe.

Q2: How can I make the cookies more colorful?
A: Consider using colorful sprinkles on top or mixing fruit jams for a vibrant effect.

Q3: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Q4: Do I need to use slivered almonds?
A: Slivered almonds add a nice texture, but you can substitute with ground hazelnuts or walnuts if preferred.

Q5: How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread?
A: Chilling the dough before baking will help maintain their shape and prevent spreading.

These Linzer cookies with blackberry jam are not just a recipe; they’re an experience. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll create a delightful treat that will warm hearts and create lasting memories. Enjoy the process and indulge in the sweet reward of your baking efforts!