Linzer Cookies: Buttery Sandwich Cookies with Raspberry Jam

Linzer cookies are a classic Austrian treat made with buttery almond cookies and a sweet layer of jam tucked in the middle.

Their beautiful cutout design and delicate texture have made them a favorite for holiday cookie trays, afternoon tea, and special celebrations for generations.

The good news is that they’re much easier to make than they look.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create tender, melt-in-your-mouth Linzer cookies from scratch, along with helpful tips for rolling, baking, and filling them with your favorite jam.

What Are Linzer Cookies?

Linzer cookies are delicate sandwich cookies made from a buttery dough that often includes ground almonds for extra flavor and tenderness.

They are traditionally filled with fruit jam and topped with a second cookie that has a small cutout in the center, allowing the colorful filling to peek through.

The combination of crisp edges, a soft crumb, and sweet jam creates a cookie that feels both elegant and comforting.

Although they are especially popular during the holiday season, Linzer cookies are delicious any time of year.

Their beautiful appearance makes them look impressive, yet they are surprisingly simple to make at home.

The History Behind Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are inspired by the Linzer Torte, one of the oldest known cake recipes in the world.

The Linzer Torte originated in Austria and is traditionally made with a rich nut-based pastry crust and a layer of fruit preserves, often red currant jam.

Over time, bakers transformed the flavors of the famous tart into a smaller, handheld treat that was easier to serve and share.

This is how the Linzer cookie was born.

Like the original dessert, Linzer cookies feature a buttery dough made with nuts and a sweet fruit filling.

The signature cutout on the top cookie is more than just decoration.

It allows the vibrant jam underneath to show through, creating the classic look that makes these cookies instantly recognizable.

Today, Linzer cookies remain a cherished part of Austrian baking traditions.

They have also become popular around the world thanks to their simple ingredients, beautiful presentation, and timeless flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about these cookies is their texture.

The combination of butter and almond flour creates a cookie that is tender, delicate, and almost melts in your mouth with every bite.

The sweet jam filling adds just the right amount of fruit flavor without overpowering the buttery cookie layers.

Another reason bakers love Linzer cookies is their appearance.

The small cutout window gives them a bakery-style look that feels special without requiring advanced decorating skills.

Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll be amazed at how professional they look once assembled.

This recipe is also easy to customize.

Raspberry jam is a classic choice, but you can use strawberry, apricot, blackberry, cherry, or almost any thick preserve you enjoy.

You can even experiment with different cookie cutter shapes to match holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.

They are beautiful to serve, fun to make, and even better to eat.

Why This Is the Best Linzer Cookies Recipe

• Rich buttery flavor – Real butter gives these cookies a rich, classic taste and a tender texture that makes every bite satisfying.
• Light almond taste from almond flour – Almond flour adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the jam without overpowering it.
• Perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness – The buttery cookies and sweet fruit jam work together to create a balanced flavor that isn’t overly sweet.
• Ideal for gifting and holiday cookie trays – Their beautiful appearance and festive look make them a standout addition to cookie boxes, dessert platters, and special celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• 1 cup (100g) almond flour – Adds a delicate nutty flavor and soft texture.
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough without making it overly sugary.
• 1 large egg yolk – Helps bind the dough and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the buttery and almond flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.

For the Filling

• ¾ cup (240g) raspberry jam – A classic filling that adds bright fruit flavor and beautiful color.
• Alternative: Strawberry, apricot, blackberry, or cherry jam can be used instead.

Optional Garnishes

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – For dusting the tops of the cookies before serving.
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest – Adds a fresh citrus note that pairs well with the jam.
• 2 tablespoons melted chocolate – Drizzle over the assembled cookies for an extra special touch.

Essential Equipment

• Mixing bowls – You’ll need a few bowls for combining the dough ingredients and keeping the baking process organized.
• Electric mixer – Makes it easy to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for the best cookie texture.
• Rolling pin – Helps roll the dough to an even thickness so the cookies bake uniformly.
• Linzer cookie cutters – These special cutters create matching cookie tops and bottoms, including the classic decorative cutout window.
• Baking sheets – Provide a sturdy surface for baking the cookies evenly in the oven.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
• Cooling rack – Allows the cookies to cool properly and helps maintain their crisp texture before filling and assembling.

How to Make Linzer Cookies

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough

Start by placing the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl.

Beat them together with an electric mixer for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the mixture looks light and creamy.

This step helps create the tender texture that makes Linzer cookies so enjoyable.

Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the bowl.

Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.

Mix on low speed just until a soft dough forms.

Avoid overmixing at this stage, as doing so can make the cookies less tender.

The dough should be soft, slightly firm, and easy to shape into a ball.

Step 2 – Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a flat disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Chilling the dough is an important step because it allows the butter to firm up.

A chilled dough is easier to roll out and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.

If the dough feels very soft or your kitchen is warm, you can chill it for up to 2 hours.

Don’t worry if the dough feels firm when you remove it from the refrigerator.

Let it sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes if needed before rolling.

Step 3 – Roll and Cut the Cookies

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.

Roll the dough to about ¼-inch (6 mm) thickness.

Keeping the dough an even thickness helps the cookies bake evenly.

Use a round, heart-shaped, or decorative cookie cutter to cut out the cookie bases.

Place the cut cookies onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to remove a shape from the center.

These cookies will become the decorative tops that show off the jam filling.

If the dough becomes too soft while you’re working, place it back in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes.

This simple step makes cutting and transferring the cookies much easier.

Step 4 – Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.

The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set.

Try not to wait for the entire cookie to turn brown.

Linzer cookies should remain light in color to keep their delicate texture.

Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to rest for a few minutes before moving them.

Step 5 – Cool Completely

Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack.

Allow them to cool completely before adding the filling.

This step is important because warm cookies can cause the jam to become runny.

Cooling also helps the cookies firm up, making them easier to assemble without breaking.

A little patience here will give you much neater and prettier cookies.

Step 6 – Fill and Assemble

Turn the solid cookies upside down so the flat side faces up.

Spoon about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam onto the center of each cookie.

Spread the jam gently, leaving a small border around the edges.

This helps prevent the filling from squeezing out when the cookies are assembled.

Carefully place a cutout cookie on top of each jam-covered base.

Press very lightly to create a sandwich cookie.

You should be able to see the bright jam through the decorative opening.

Step 7 – Finish with Powdered Sugar

Before assembling, lightly dust the cutout cookies with powdered sugar.

Dusting them separately helps keep the jam window clean and visible.

A small fine-mesh sieve works well for creating an even layer.

Once assembled, the contrast between the white powdered sugar and colorful jam gives the cookies their classic bakery-style appearance.

For an extra special touch, add a little lemon zest or a light drizzle of melted chocolate before serving.

Your Linzer cookies are now ready to enjoy.

Serve them with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk and enjoy every buttery, jam-filled bite.

Tips for Perfect Linzer Cookies

• Use room-temperature butter – Softened butter creams more easily with sugar, creating a smooth dough and tender cookie texture.
• Don’t overwork the dough – Mix only until the ingredients are combined to keep the cookies light and delicate.
• Chill the dough if it becomes too soft – A quick chill helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll, cut, and handle.
• Use thick jam to prevent leaking – Thick preserves stay in place better and help keep the cookie layers neat and tidy.
• Dust only the top cookies with powdered sugar – This keeps the jam window visible and gives the cookies their classic bakery-style look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chilling step – Chilled dough is easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
• Rolling the dough too thin – Thin cookies can become fragile and may break when filled and assembled.
• Overbaking the cookies – Baking too long can make the cookies dry and hard instead of tender and delicate.
• Overfilling with jam – Using too much filling can cause the jam to spill out when the cookies are pressed together.
• Assembling while the cookies are warm – Warm cookies can soften the jam and make the finished cookies messy and difficult to handle.

Best Jams and Fillings for Linzer Cookies

Traditional Choices

Raspberry Jam

Raspberry jam is the most popular filling for classic Linzer cookies.

Its bright red color creates a beautiful contrast against the powdered sugar topping.

The sweet and slightly tart flavor pairs perfectly with the buttery almond cookies.

If you’re making Linzer cookies for the first time, raspberry jam is an excellent place to start.

Red Currant Jam

Red currant jam is another traditional choice often used in Austrian baking.

It has a slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Its smooth texture spreads easily and creates a beautiful jewel-like appearance through the cookie cutout.

If you enjoy desserts with a touch of tartness, red currant jam is a wonderful option.

Delicious Variations

Strawberry Jam

Strawberry jam adds a familiar, fruity sweetness that appeals to both children and adults.

Its soft berry flavor complements the almond notes in the cookies without overpowering them.

This is a great choice if you prefer a sweeter filling.

Apricot Preserves

Apricot preserves bring a bright, slightly citrusy flavor to Linzer cookies.

The smooth texture makes them easy to spread evenly between the cookie layers.

Their golden color also creates a unique and elegant appearance.

Blackberry Jam

Blackberry jam offers a deeper berry flavor with a subtle tart finish.

The rich taste pairs beautifully with the buttery cookie dough.

It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a slightly more bold fruit filling.

Cherry Preserves

Cherry preserves provide a sweet and rich flavor that feels especially festive.

Their vibrant color looks stunning peeking through the decorative cutout window.

Cherry and almond are a classic flavor combination, making this variation particularly delicious.

Unique Filling Ideas

Nutella

For a chocolate twist, try filling your Linzer cookies with Nutella.

The creamy hazelnut spread creates a rich and indulgent treat.

Nutella pairs surprisingly well with the almond-flavored cookies and offers a fun alternative to fruit preserves.

Lemon Curd

Lemon curd adds a bright and refreshing citrus flavor.

Its smooth texture and tangy taste create a wonderful contrast to the sweet cookie layers.

This filling is especially popular during spring and summer gatherings.

Salted Caramel

Salted caramel brings a rich buttery sweetness with a hint of salt.

The combination creates a more grown-up flavor profile while still being easy to enjoy.

If you want something a little different from traditional fruit fillings, salted caramel is a delicious option.

Easy Linzer Cookie Variations

Chocolate Linzer Cookies

If you’re a chocolate lover, this variation is a must-try.

To make chocolate Linzer cookies, replace about ¼ cup of the all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.

This adds a rich chocolate flavor without changing the texture of the cookies.

The cocoa also gives the cookies a beautiful dark color that makes the filling stand out even more.

Raspberry jam remains a fantastic choice because chocolate and raspberry pair naturally well together.

Cherry preserves and Nutella are also delicious options for the filling.

A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch and creates a striking contrast against the darker cookies.

Lemon Linzer Cookies

Lemon Linzer cookies are bright, fresh, and perfect for spring or summer gatherings.

Simply add 1 to 2 teaspoons of finely grated lemon zest to the dough before mixing.

The zest contains the flavorful oils from the lemon peel and adds plenty of citrus flavor without extra liquid.

The result is a cookie with a light, refreshing taste that complements the buttery dough beautifully.

Lemon curd makes an excellent filling for this variation.

Apricot preserves and raspberry jam also pair wonderfully with the citrus notes.

For even more lemon flavor, add a little extra zest to the powdered sugar before dusting the cookies.

Hazelnut Linzer Cookies

Hazelnut Linzer cookies offer a deeper, richer nutty flavor than the traditional version.

To make them, replace the almond flour with an equal amount of finely ground hazelnut flour.

The hazelnuts create a warm, slightly sweet flavor that works especially well with fruit fillings.

Many bakers love this variation because it feels a little more indulgent while remaining simple to prepare.

Chocolate fillings are particularly delicious with hazelnut cookies.

Nutella, cherry preserves, and blackberry jam are all excellent choices.

If you enjoy classic chocolate-hazelnut combinations, this variation may quickly become your favorite.

Holiday Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are perfect for holidays because they can easily be adapted to match the occasion.

Instead of traditional round cutters, try using festive shapes such as stars, snowflakes, hearts, pumpkins, or Christmas trees.

The decorative cutout centers can also be customized to suit the season.

For Christmas, raspberry or cranberry jam creates a festive red filling.

During the fall, spiced apple butter or pumpkin butter makes a delicious seasonal alternative.

For Valentine’s Day, heart-shaped cookies filled with strawberry jam are always a popular choice.

Holiday Linzer cookies look beautiful on dessert tables, cookie trays, and homemade gift boxes.

They add a special touch to celebrations while still being easy to make at home.

How to Store Linzer Cookies

Room Temperature Storage

If you plan to enjoy your cookies within a few days, room temperature storage works perfectly.

Place the cookies in an airtight container to protect them from air and moisture.

Containers with secure-fitting lids are the best choice because they help keep the cookies fresh and prevent them from drying out.

If you’re stacking multiple layers of cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer.

This helps protect the powdered sugar coating and prevents the cookies from sticking together.

Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Properly stored Linzer cookies will typically stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days at room temperature.

In fact, many bakers find that the cookies taste even better after a day because the jam has time to soften the cookie layers slightly.

Refrigeration Tips

Refrigeration is not always necessary, but there are times when it can be helpful.

If your filling contains ingredients that require chilling, such as lemon curd, cream-based fillings, or homemade preserves with a short shelf life, storing the cookies in the refrigerator is a good idea.

Refrigeration is also useful in warm or humid climates where cookies may soften too quickly at room temperature.

Place the cookies in an airtight container before refrigerating.

This helps prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.

Stored properly, refrigerated Linzer cookies can remain fresh for up to one week.

For the best flavor and texture, allow the cookies to sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

This short resting time helps the cookies soften slightly and allows the flavors to shine.

Freezing Instructions

Linzer cookies freeze surprisingly well and can be prepared weeks in advance.

If freezing assembled cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or storage bag.

Adding parchment paper between layers helps protect the cookies from sticking together.

Frozen assembled cookies can generally be stored for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

You may wish to add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar before serving to restore their beautiful appearance.

You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking.

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer-safe bag or container.

The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When ready to bake, transfer the dough to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.

Once softened enough to roll out, continue with the recipe as directed.

Freezing the dough is a great option if you like to prepare holiday baking ahead of time without feeling rushed later.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Preparing the dough in advance – The cookie dough can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roll and bake.
• Baking cookies ahead of holidays – Bake the cookie layers several days in advance and store them in an airtight container to save time during busy holiday preparations.
• Assembling just before serving – Fill and sandwich the cookies shortly before serving to keep them looking fresh and maintain the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Afternoon tea – Serve Linzer cookies alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a simple and elegant treat.
• Holiday dessert platters – Add them to festive dessert trays where their colorful jam centers and powdered sugar topping stand out beautifully.
• Cookie gift boxes – Package the cookies in decorative boxes or tins for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will appreciate.
• Special celebrations and gatherings – Bring them to birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, and family gatherings for a dessert that looks impressive and tastes delicious.

Final Thoughts

Linzer cookies have remained a favorite for generations because they combine a tender, buttery texture with a sweet, flavorful filling in every bite.

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, don’t be afraid to experiment with different jams, fillings, and cookie shapes to create your own unique version.

FAQs

Why are my Linzer cookies spreading?

Linzer cookies often spread when the dough is too warm. Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading.

Can I make Linzer cookies without almond flour?

Yes. You can replace the almond flour with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, although the cookies will have a less nutty flavor and a slightly different texture.

What is the best jam for Linzer cookies?

Raspberry jam is the traditional choice because its sweet-tart flavor pairs perfectly with the buttery cookies. Strawberry, apricot, blackberry, and cherry jams also work well.

How long do Linzer cookies stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Linzer cookies typically stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. They can last up to a week if refrigerated.

Can I freeze assembled Linzer cookies?

Yes. Assembled Linzer cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them before serving and add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Why do Linzer cookies need to be chilled?

Chilling firms up the butter in the dough, making it easier to roll and cut. It also helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and improves their texture.