Raspberry Linzer Cookies Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a cookie that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, Raspberry Linzer Cookies are your new best friend. These charming little treats boast a tender buttery base, perfectly balanced by the sweet-tart flair of raspberry jam peeking through delicate cutouts dusted with a snowy sprinkle of icing sugar. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that never fails to impress whether you’re enjoying them with afternoon tea or gifting them to loved ones. Let me walk you through everything you need to create these irresistible Raspberry Linzer Cookies that feel both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these beautiful Raspberry Linzer Cookies, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients, but each one plays a starring role in building that classic taste and crumble that makes these cookies unforgettable. From creamy butter creating that tender crumb to the bright raspberry jam that adds a burst of color and flavor, every component is essential.

• Butter, 1 cup (room temperature): Provides richness and the tender texture that makes these cookies melt in your mouth.
• Icing sugar, 3/4 cup (sifted): Sweetens delicately and helps to create a smooth dough and a beautiful dusting.
• Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness and deepening the overall taste.
• Vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds warm, comforting undertones that elevate the cookie’s flavor.
• All-purpose flour, 2 cups (sifted): The backbone of the dough, bringing structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• Italian raspberry jam, 1/2 cup: The luscious, sweet-tart jewel of the cookie, packed inside to burst with fruity freshness.
• Extra flour: For dusting your rolling surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking and make rolling out the dough easier.
• Extra icing sugar: For the final dusting on top, giving the cookies their signature elegant look.

How to Make Raspberry Linzer Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter, sifted icing sugar, salt, and vanilla together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step takes a little patience—around three minutes—to achieve the perfect airy texture that makes these Raspberry Linzer Cookies so tender and delicate.

Step 2: Incorporate the Flour

Next, add the sifted all-purpose flour gradually to the creamed mixture while continuing to mix on low speed. Soon, you’ll see a ball of dough begin to form—this is exactly what you want. Once combined, take the dough out and knead it gently by hand until it forms a smooth ball. This extra touch ensures your cookies have the perfect balance of softness and structure.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial because it firms up the dough, making it much easier to roll out and cut without sticking or losing shape. Plus, it helps develop a better texture once baked.

Step 4: Roll Out and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness, adding flour to your rolling pin and surface as needed to avoid sticking. Use a 3-inch circle cookie cutter to cut out your cookies. Gather the scraps, re-roll them, and cut additional circles until all dough is used.

Step 5: Create the Signature Cutouts

To achieve that classic Raspberry Linzer Cookies look, take half of your round cookie shapes and cut smaller shapes—like 1.5-inch Christmas-themed cutters—in the center of each. This lets the ruby-red jam shine through after baking and adds that charming, festive touch.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Arrange your cookie rounds and cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them evenly. Bake on both the top and bottom oven racks, rotating the pans and switching racks halfway through to ensure even color. Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges are a light golden color — keep a close eye so they don’t over-bake.

Step 7: Assemble Your Raspberry Linzer Cookies

Once cooled, spread a generous layer of Italian raspberry jam on the bottom of each whole cookie. Dust the cutout cookies with extra icing sugar to create that beautiful contrast. Finally, sandwich the cutout cookie atop the jam-covered whole cookie, sugar side facing up. The result is a cookie that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

How to Serve Raspberry Linzer Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, a light dusting of additional icing sugar just before serving adds a snowy elegance. Fresh raspberries can also be arranged around your serving platter to highlight the jam’s flavor and bring a punch of freshness and color to your presentation.

Side Dishes

These delicate Raspberry Linzer Cookies are a perfect companion to a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, especially when the cookies are served as part of a dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few Raspberry Linzer Cookies tied with a satin ribbon for a stunning gift or party favor. Alternatively, display them on a decorative tiered tray alongside other petite desserts to create an inviting dessert table centerpiece. Their intricate cutouts also make them ideal for holiday parties or special occasions, showcasing both your baking talent and sense of style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Raspberry Linzer Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them in a single layer if possible, or with parchment paper between layers to preserve their delicate texture and prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before assembling or after. To freeze unbaked dough, shape and cut the cookies and flash freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Assembled Raspberry Linzer Cookies freeze well too — just make sure to wrap them tightly to protect the icing sugar dusting and jam filling.

Reheating

Raspberry Linzer Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, pop them into a low oven (around 300°F) for 3-5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can soften the jam too much and make the cookies soggy.

FAQs

What makes Raspberry Linzer Cookies different from regular jam cookies?

Raspberry Linzer Cookies stand out with their buttery, tender crumb and signature cutout tops that showcase the vibrant raspberry jam inside, combined with a dusting of icing sugar for a delicate, elegant finish.

Can I use other types of jam in this recipe?

Absolutely! While raspberry jam is traditional and offers a lovely balance of sweet and tart, you can experiment with apricot, strawberry, or even blackberry jam to create your own twist on Raspberry Linzer Cookies.

Why do I need to chill the dough before rolling it out?

Chilling the dough firms it up so it is easier to roll without sticking or becoming too soft. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and results in a tender, flaky texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Using cold dough, rolling to the correct thickness, and avoiding over-baking all help keep cookies from spreading excessively. The chilled dough also helps maintain their shape.

What is the best way to store Raspberry Linzer Cookies long term?

The best way to keep Raspberry Linzer Cookies fresh for longer is to freeze them, either as dough or after assembly, in airtight containers. Thaw them gently at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about Raspberry Linzer Cookies — they bring together buttery richness, fruity brightness, and a charming look that never fails to put a smile on anyone’s face. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, holiday, or just to treat yourself, these cookies are a joy to make and an even bigger joy to share. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and discover how wonderfully satisfying homemade Raspberry Linzer Cookies can be.

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