Delicious Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Have you ever wanted to bake something truly special, a treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the zesty brightness of orange and the comforting sweetness of jam? Look no further than these delightful Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies. These cookies are not only visually appealing with their intricate designs and dusting of powdered sugar, but they also offer a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This detailed guide will walk you through each step, ensuring that even novice bakers can create these exquisite cookies with ease.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about what makes Linzer cookies so special. Originating from Linz, Austria, these cookies are typically made with almond flour and spiced with cinnamon, giving them a distinctive nutty and warm flavor. The traditional Linzer cookie features a “window” cut out of the top cookie, allowing the vibrant jam filling to peek through, creating a beautiful and appetizing presentation. While raspberry jam is a classic choice, the beauty of Linzer cookies lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different jams, such as apricot, strawberry, or even a homemade orange marmalade, to create your own unique twist.
This recipe elevates the traditional Linzer cookie by incorporating orange zest into the dough, adding a refreshing citrus note that complements the cinnamon and almond flavors perfectly. The combination of cinnamon and orange creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and invigorating, making these cookies ideal for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy afternoons with a cup of tea.
Making Linzer cookies may seem daunting at first, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be rewarded with a batch of stunning and delicious cookies that are sure to impress your friends and family. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, providing clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure your success. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s embark on this baking adventure together!
Cinnamon & Orange Jam Linzer Cookies
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from
0
votes
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
30
minutes
Cooking time
40
minutes
Calories
300
kcal
Ingredients for Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies
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12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup (99g) sugar
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zest (grated rind) of 1 orange or 1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1 large egg yolk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/3 cups (160g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
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3/4 cup (72g) almond flour
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1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
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raspberry jam, apricot jam, or orange marmalade for filling
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confectioners’ sugar or glazing sugar, for dusting
Directions: Baking Your Linzer Cookies
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and vanilla. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined to distribute the spices evenly throughout the dough. The cloves, if using, add an extra layer of warmth.
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. Incorporating air into the butter and sugar mixture results in a lighter, more delicate texture. Add egg mixture and beat until combined. Add dry ingredients and beat until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cookie.
- Divide dough in half, form each half into a disk, and place each between 2 large sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough to 1/8″ in thickness. This ensures even baking and prevents the cookies from spreading too much. Place dough sheets on a baking sheet or cutting board and transfer to refrigerator to chill for 2 hours. (Or place in the freezer for 30 minutes.) Chilling the dough is essential for easy handling and prevents the cookies from losing their shape during baking. Cold dough is less sticky and easier to cut.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper. Peel away one layer of parchment paper from your dough and use a 2″ round cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Use a smaller round cookie cutter, or a specialty Linzer cookie cutter, to cut windows in half the cookies, if desired. Get creative with your cookie shapes! Stars, hearts, or even custom designs can add a personal touch.
- Place cookies on baking sheet about 1″ apart. Bake 7 to 9 minutes, or until cookies are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on the cookies while they’re baking, as they can burn easily. The edges should be lightly golden, but the center should still be soft. Let cool completely on the baking sheets before handling.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, stir 1 teaspoon water into jam. Microwave on low for 30 seconds to thin it slightly, making it easier to spread. Spread about 1/2 tsp of jam in the center of a cookie without a window, then top with a second cookie that has a window. Dust generously with confectioners’ sugar or glazing sugar. The powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and creates a beautiful contrast against the vibrant jam. Serve and enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies!
Notes & Tips for Perfect Linzer Cookies
- Storage: Store your Linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They are best enjoyed within the first few days when the cookies are still soft and the jam is fresh.
- Jam Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different jam flavors. Apricot, strawberry, fig, or even a homemade citrus curd can be delicious alternatives to raspberry jam. Consider the color and flavor profile when choosing your jam.
- Dough Handling: If the dough becomes too soft while you’re working with it, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up. This will make it easier to cut and prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Cookie Cutters: Invest in a good set of Linzer cookie cutters with various shapes and sizes. These cutters will help you create beautiful and consistent cookies with ease.
- Nut Allergy Alternative If there is a nut allergy concern, replace the almond flour with an equal amount of all purpose flour. The texture will change ever so slightly but you can still enjoy the same flavor.
- Recipe Source