Cranberry Linzer Cookies bring a delightful twist to traditional cookie recipes. These soft and crumbly almond cookies, flecked with dried cranberries and filled with a homemade cranberry jam, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress with their rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of almonds and cranberries creates a unique taste that is both sweet and tangy.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday celebrations or as everyday snacks, these cookies fit seamlessly into any occasion.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can create these impressive cookies without stress.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The cut-out shapes and vibrant jam filling make these cookies visually appealing on any dessert platter.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fruit jams or jellies for a personalized touch.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Cranberry Linzer Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your preparation process and enhance your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.
- Mixing bowls: Provide ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for the cookie dough, which is crucial for uniform baking.
Ingredients
Soft and crumbly almond cookies flecked with dried cranberries with cranberry jam sandwiched in the middle.
For the Cranberry Jam Filling
- 300 g cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 150 g water
For the Cookie Dough
- 380 g all-purpose flour
- 100 g almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 230 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100 g dried cranberries (finely chopped)
- powdered sugar (for sprinkling)
How to Make Cranberry Linzer Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Jam Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, and water.
- Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil. Then reduce heat and let simmer until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before using as filling.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, and chopped dried cranberries.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
- Divide dough into two portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Roll Out and Cut Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Place half of them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- For each shape on the baking sheet, cut out a smaller shape from another half of the dough for tops.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies
- Spread cranberry jam on the bottom of each cookie without a cut-out top piece.
- Sandwich with another cookie on top.
- Dust finished cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Linzer Cookies! They’re sure to become a favorite treat among family and friends!
How to Serve Cranberry Linzer Cookies
Cranberry Linzer Cookies are delightful treats perfect for any occasion. Their vibrant color and rich flavor make them an excellent choice for serving during gatherings or as a sweet gift.
With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant touch that enhances their appearance.
Paired with Hot Beverages
- Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The flavors complement each other beautifully, making for a cozy experience.
In a Cookie Box Gift
- Arrange the cookies in a decorative box to create a thoughtful gift. This is especially lovely during the holiday season.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include Cranberry Linzer Cookies on a dessert platter with other sweets. Their unique shape and color add variety and visual appeal.
Alongside Fresh Fruit
- Pair these cookies with fresh berries or slices of orange. The acidity of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies.
How to Perfect Cranberry Linzer Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Cranberry Linzer Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
Chill Your Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps maintain its shape while baking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cranberries when making jam and ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Roll Evenly: Roll out the dough to an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. This keeps all cookies from browning at different rates.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling them. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Linzer Cookies
Cranberry Linzer Cookies are versatile and can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
Fruit Salad
A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich cookies.Cheese Platter
Pairing with a selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance the sweetness of the cookies.Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that enhances your dessert experience.Nut Mix
A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and salty flavor, creating an enjoyable textural contrast.Chocolate Fondue
Serve warm chocolate fondue for dipping, adding an indulgent twist that pairs well with cranberry flavors.Spiced Tea
A cup of spiced tea can enhance the baking spices used in your cookies, making each bite more flavorful.Ice Cream
Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream can provide a creamy accompaniment, balancing out the tartness of cranberries.Homemade Jam
Offer additional cranberry jam or other fruit preserves on the side for those who love extra flavor!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cranberry Linzer Cookies can be a fun experience, but avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to achieve the right shape.
- Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check the expiration dates on your flour and baking soda for best results.
- Inconsistent cookie sizes: Uniform sizes ensure even baking. Use a cookie scoop or measure to keep sizes consistent.
- Skipping the jam filling: The cranberry jam is essential for flavor. Don’t forget to fill your cookies generously!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper.
Freezing Cranberry Linzer Cookies
- Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Cranberry Linzer Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds; enjoy warm.
- Stovetop: Cover in a skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Cranberry Linzer Cookies, here are some answers.
Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?
Yes! You can substitute with other fruits like raspberries or apricots for different flavors.
How thick should I roll out the cookie dough?
Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness to ensure they bake evenly without being too fragile.
Can I make the cranberry jam in advance?
Absolutely! Make the jam ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
What is the best way to customize Cranberry Linzer Cookies?
Consider adding nuts or spices like cinnamon to the dough for extra flavor variations.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The edges will be lightly golden, and they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Linzer Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different jams or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy making these delightful treats!
Cranberry Linzer Cookies
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cranberry Linzer Cookies, a charming twist on a classic treat. These soft, crumbly cookies are made with almond flour and studded with dried cranberries, all lovingly sandwiched around a luscious homemade cranberry jam filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet everyday snack, these cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on any dessert platter. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes them irresistible to both friends and family alike. Easy to make, even novice bakers will find joy in crafting these treats that are sure to impress!
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 300 g cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 150 g granulated sugar (for jam)
- 150 g water
- 380 g all-purpose flour
- 100 g almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 230 g unsalted butter (softened)
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100 g dried cranberries (finely chopped)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry jam by simmering cranberries, granulated sugar, and water until thickened. Cool completely.
- Cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla.
- Combine the flours, salt, and chopped dried cranberries in another bowl, then mix into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out to about 1/8 inch thick and cutting into desired shapes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Once cooled, assemble by spreading cranberry jam between two cookie halves and dust with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap the cranberry jam for your favorite fruit preserves for a unique twist. Ensure your dough is chilled adequately to prevent spreading during baking. Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance flavor complexity.