Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies

Name: Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup ground almonds; 1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Festive Flavor Collection

Delightful and buttery, these Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are perfect for your next gathering. With their signature cut-out design, they are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-03T22:30:27.549Z

These Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies have a rich history rooted in Austria. Traditionally made during the holiday season, their unique design and delicious filling make them a cherished dessert. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Delicate almond flavor with a hint of cinnamon
Beautifully presented with a jam center
Perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
Great for gifting or sharing with friends

      

The Perfect Cookie for Any Occasion

These Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are the epitome of versatility. Whether it's a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or an afternoon tea with friends, these cookies are sure to impress. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures make them a standout treat that everyone will love. Plus, their stunning presentation with a vibrant jam center makes them visually appealing, adding elegance to any dessert table.

Not only are they delicious, but they also evoke a sense of nostalgia. Many people associate Linzer cookies with childhood memories of baking with family. Making these cookies can be a beautiful way to create new memories with loved ones while sharing the joy of baking.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before you begin creaming it with sugar. This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture in the dough. Additionally, don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking, resulting in perfectly cut-out designs.

When it comes to choosing the jam filling, feel free to experiment! While raspberry and apricot are classic choices, other fruit jams like strawberry or blackberry can also work beautifully. The key is to select a jam that balances sweetness with a hint of tartness, enhancing the overall flavor of the cookie.

Storing and Gifting

Once baked and assembled, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Just layer the cookies between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

These cookies make for a thoughtful gift! Consider packaging them in a decorative tin or box, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper. They are perfect for sharing during the holidays or as a delightful surprise for friends and family, showcasing your baking skills and thoughtfulness.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup ground almonds

For the Filling

1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and mix well.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Roll and Cut the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out cookies.

For half of them, use a smaller cutter to make a hole in the center to create the 'eye'.

Bake

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.

Assemble the Cookies

Spread a teaspoon of jam on the whole cookies, then place the cookies with the cut-out center on top. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For best flavor, use high-quality jam and allow the cookies to cool completely before assembling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon snack. Their buttery texture and sweet jam filling complement a hot beverage beautifully, making for a comforting treat any time of day. You can also serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside other baked goods, creating an inviting and diverse selection for your guests.

For an elegant touch, consider garnishing the cookies with a light drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed nuts. This not only adds extra flavor but also enhances their visual appeal, making them even more enticing.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the flavors in your Linzer cookies! Try adding a dash of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the dough for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, you can experiment with different extracts—like coconut or hazelnut—to give your cookies a unique flavor profile.

For a fun variation, consider making a Linzer tart instead! Simply press the dough into a tart pan, fill it with jam, and top it with a lattice of dough strips. This variation retains the same delicious flavors while providing a different texture and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like strawberry or blueberry.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without jam for up to 3 months. Just thaw and assemble when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for ground almonds?

You can use finely chopped walnuts or pecans if you prefer.