Linzer Cookies Recipe

Here's a recipe for classic Linzer cookies, a traditional Austrian treat that's perfect for the holidays or any occasion:

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup ground almonds

1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam

Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.

2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

4. Stir in the ground almonds until well incorporated.

5 . Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to 1/4-inch (6mm) thickness. Using a 2-inch (5cm) round cookie cutter, cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough.

8. Use a smaller cookie cutter or a knife to cut out the centers of half of the cookies. These will be the tops of the Linzer cookies.

9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

10. Spread a thin layer of jam on the bottom of each solid cookie. Top with a cut-out cookie, pressing down gently to sandwich the jam. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Linzer cookies!