If there were ever a cookie that captures both the flavors of our German heritage and the spirit of heartfelt celebration, it would be the Linzer cookie. Known as Spitzbuben in Germany, these delicate, buttery sandwich cookies are filled with bright red jam and topped with a dusting of confectioners' sugar. They are a Christmas classic across Europe, but the sweet heart cutouts and ruby-red centers make them the perfect cookie for Valentine’s Day.
At HABA, honoring our German roots is as important as creating meaningful family moments. Baking, much like play, is one of the most cherished ways families connect. And Linzer cookies are not only a treat but a delicious tradition to be passed down and enjoyed, generation after generation.
A Cookie That Looks Like Love
What makes Linzer cookies so special? Beyond their gorgeous appearance, they offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The dough is made rich with butter and finely ground almonds, lending a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The jam, traditionally raspberry, but equally delicious with strawberry or cherry, adds a sweet-tart pop of flavor and a vibrant color that peeks through the cutout in each cookie. For Valentine's Day, we love using a heart-shaped cookie cutter to create a festive version of this German classic. Their charming design makes them a thoughtful homemade gift or centerpiece for a cozy afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1⁄4 cups unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 1⁄4 cups finely ground blanched almonds (almond meal)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 1⁄4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
- 1 egg white (room temperature)
- Fruit jam (raspberry, strawberry, or cherry without fruit chunks)
- Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
Cream the base: In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until pale and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Don’t rush this step as it builds a tender texture.
Add richness: Beat in the almond meal, vanilla extract, and egg white until fully incorporated and smooth. The almond adds a delicate nutty flavor and makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Knead and chill: Gradually add the flour and knead gently until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in parchment, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup.
Roll and shape: Roll out one disk at a time on a lightly floured surface to 1/8"–1/4" thick. Using heart-shaped or round cutters, cut out cookie bottoms. For the tops, use the same shape plus a smaller cutter to make a center “window.”
Bake to perfection: Place cookies on prepared sheets and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until just golden at the edges. Rotate trays halfway through for even coloring.
Cool completely: Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Ensure they’re fully cool before assembling to prevent the jam from melting.
Assemble with love: Lightly dust the top “window” cookies with confectioners’ sugar. Spread a thin layer of jam onto each bottom cookie and gently sandwich with a sugar-dusted top.
A Classic to Love, All Year Long
Though these cookies shine around Valentine’s Day or Christmas, there’s no wrong time to bake them. Switch up the shape of the cutout for different occasions; stars for birthdays, flowers for spring, or pumpkins for fall. No matter when you bake them, Linzer cookies are a delicious invitation to slow down, gather in the kitchen, and share something truly special.
We hope this recipe becomes one of your family’s favorite traditions. From our German kitchen to yours, Happy Valentine’s Day!
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