Delightful Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies: Your Ultimate Holiday Baking Guide
Unwrap the magic of the holiday season with these enchanting Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies! These beautiful, jam-filled cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the palate, making them the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray or a heartwarming homemade gift. With their vibrant filling peeking through a festive cut-out, they instantly bring cheer to any gathering.
Embrace the Holiday Spirit with Easy & Elegant Linzer Cookies
There’s something uniquely heartwarming about baking during the holidays, and cookies hold a special place in these cherished traditions. These Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies are a prime example—they’re incredibly fun to make and surprisingly easier than you might imagine! While traditional Linzer cookies often call for specialty ingredients like ground almonds or almond flour, our simplified recipe bypasses these, ensuring that you can create these stunning treats using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This approach makes holiday baking accessible and enjoyable for everyone, without compromising on that classic, delicate shortbread texture and rich flavor. While we adore the charming Christmas tree shape for its festive appeal, feel free to use any cookie cutter that sparks your creativity. But if you’re seeking a wonderfully simple yet utterly delightful holiday treat, this Christmas Tree Linzer Cookie Recipe is an absolute must-try!
Imagine a batch of these golden, jam-filled wonders cooling on your counter, filling your home with the sweet aroma of butter and vanilla. They’re not just cookies; they’re tiny expressions of holiday joy, perfect for sharing with family, friends, and neighbors. These cookies are sturdy enough for gifting but tender enough to melt in your mouth, leaving a sweet, fruity finish. Get ready to impress everyone with these homemade beauties!
Frequently Asked Questions About Linzer Cookies
At their heart, Linzer cookies are exquisite shortbread-style sandwich cookies traditionally filled with a vibrant preserve, most commonly black currant jam. Their classic counterparts, the Linzer Torte, often feature a distinctive lattice-top design. Over generations, particularly in America, the recipe has evolved to suit diverse tastes and preferences. This has led to the use of various flavored preserves, from bright raspberry to tangy apricot, and the creation of endless shapes and decorative patterns, moving beyond the traditional lattice to charming cut-outs like the Christmas tree shape we’re using today. These cookies are celebrated for their tender, buttery texture and the delightful contrast of the sweet, fruity filling.
Linzer cookies boast a rich Austrian heritage. Their name is derived from Linz, a city in Austria, renowned for the Linzer Torte – a much older, elaborate pastry considered one of the oldest cakes in the world. The cookie version, essentially a miniature, portable adaptation of the torte, became popular for its delicate flavor and beautiful appearance. While you might frequently encounter them in German markets, reflecting their popularity across Central Europe, their culinary roots firmly lie in Austria. These charming cookies carry centuries of baking tradition in every bite.
Absolutely not! While the Christmas tree shape lends a wonderfully festive touch, especially for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, you are encouraged to unleash your creativity. You can use any of your favorite cookie cutters as long as you have two sizes: a larger one for the base cookie and a smaller, corresponding one to create the signature “window” for the jam filling in half of your cookies. Heart shapes are perfect for Valentine’s Day, stars for patriotic holidays, or simple rounds for any occasion. The key is to have fun with it and make them your own!
The beauty of Linzer cookies lies in their versatility, and jam selection is no exception. While black currant is the traditional choice, many other flavors beautifully complement the buttery shortbread. We’ve had fantastic results with apricot, strawberry (our favorite for these Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies!), raspberry, orange marmalade, and even lingonberry. The best jams are typically those with a good balance of sweetness and tartness, and a relatively smooth consistency. You can use either high-quality store-bought preserves or homemade jam—just ensure it’s not too thin, as it could seep out during baking or handling, and not too chunky, which might make spreading difficult.
Indeed, the classic, traditional Linzer cookie recipe often features almond flour or finely ground almonds as a key ingredient, contributing to its distinct texture and nutty flavor. However, for this particular recipe, we aimed to make it as accessible and straightforward as possible for the average home cook. Many American pantries don’t regularly stock almond flour, and purchasing it just for one recipe can be an extra step or expense. Our version ensures you can achieve a wonderfully tender and delicious Linzer cookie without needing specialty ingredients. That said, if you happen to have almond flour on hand and prefer that traditional almond note, you can certainly substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour (e.g., replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of almond flour) for a slightly richer, more almond-forward flavor profile.
When preparing Linzer cookies for gift-giving, proper packaging is crucial to maintain their fresh taste and delicate structure. I highly recommend using wax paper or parchment paper as your secret weapon. Start by lining the bottom of your cookie tin or container with a sheet of wax paper. Then, carefully arrange a single layer of your Linzer cookies. Place another sheet of wax paper over this layer before adding the next batch of cookies. Continue this layering technique, topping your final layer with a last sheet of wax paper. This method prevents the cookies from sticking together, protects the jam filling, and keeps them from drying out or becoming damaged during transport. A decorative ribbon around the tin adds a lovely final touch!
Yes, Linzer cookies are wonderfully freezer-friendly, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time during the busy holiday season! To freeze baked cookies, place them in a freezer-safe, airtight container, utilizing the same wax paper layering technique described above to prevent sticking. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them defrost at room temperature for a few hours. For storing at room temperature or in the refrigerator: Store your Linzer cookies in an airtight container. They will remain fresh and delicious at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can extend their freshness by storing them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Always ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies
Crafting these delectable Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies begins with a handful of readily available, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect buttery flavor and tender crumb that makes Linzer cookies so beloved:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of our cookie dough. Using all-purpose flour ensures a sturdy yet tender cookie that holds its shape beautifully while baking.
- Cornstarch: A secret ingredient for ultimate tenderness! Adding cornstarch to the dough helps to create a softer, more delicate texture, making these cookies truly melt-in-your-mouth.
- Salt: Just a pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the sugar and jam, enhancing all the other flavors in the cookie.
- Unsalted butter: At room temperature, butter is key for achieving a light and airy dough when creamed with sugar. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall saltiness of the recipe.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the essential sweetness and contributes to the crisp edges and golden-brown finish of the cookies.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, holding the dough together, and also add richness and moisture, resulting in a more flavorful and tender cookie.
- Vanilla extract: A cornerstone of most cookie recipes, vanilla extract provides a warm, aromatic depth that complements the butter and jam perfectly.
- Strawberry jam: Our featured filling! Strawberry jam offers a bright, sweet, and slightly tart counterpoint to the rich cookie. Feel free to experiment with other jam flavors like raspberry or apricot based on your preference.
How to Bake Irresistible Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies: A Detailed Guide
Creating these festive Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies is a rewarding experience. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly baked, beautifully filled holiday treats:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and ensures even baking, making cleanup a breeze. Set the prepared tray aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This ensures all dry ingredients are evenly distributed, leading to a consistent cookie texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer in a large bowl), combine the softened room-temperature butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together at medium speed for at least 2 to 3 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. Remember to periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. This creaming process is essential for incorporating air, which contributes to the cookies’ tender texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and evenly incorporated, ensuring no streaks of egg remain. This step adds richness and binds the ingredients together, forming the foundation of your delicious cookie dough.
Step 4: Form the Dough and Chill
Gradually add the prepared flour mixture to the butter-egg mixture in batches, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Once the dough comes together, gently flatten it into a disc, wrap it tightly with plastic cling wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough is a crucial step; it helps to firm up the butter, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring crisp, defined edges.
Step 5: Roll, Cut, and Bake Your Cookies
Once the dough is thoroughly chilled, unwrap it and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to an even 1/4 inch thickness. Using your Christmas tree cookie cutter (or chosen shape), cut out your cookies. Remember, for every pair, you’ll need one full cookie for the base and one with a smaller cut-out in the center for the top. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to your prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Baking times can vary, so keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning. Once baked, let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Assemble with Jam (Bottom Layer)
Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time for assembly! Take a whole cookie (without the center cut-out) and apply a generous, thick layer of your chosen strawberry jam to its flat bottom side. Be sure to leave a thin border around the edge of the cookie, as this will help the top cookie adhere neatly and prevent the jam from squeezing out. Gently place a corresponding cut-out cookie on top, aligning the edges carefully. The jam should peek through the festive cut-out, creating that iconic Linzer cookie look.
Step 7: Final Jam Filling and Enjoyment
For an extra burst of fruity flavor and a truly polished finish, use a small spoon or a piping bag to fill the cut-out centers of the assembled cookies with a little more jam. This adds a beautiful, plump dome of jam that truly makes these Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies irresistible. You can also lightly dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy, elegant look, although they are perfectly beautiful and delicious as is. Arrange them on your favorite holiday platter and watch them disappear!
Enjoy your homemade masterpieces!
Discover More Delicious Holiday Recipes!
If you’ve loved baking these Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies, you’re in for a treat! Explore our collection of other delightful and easy-to-make recipes perfect for the holiday season or any festive occasion. From charming snacks to decadent desserts, there’s something for every baker and every celebration.
- Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
- Reindeer Pretzel Snacks
- Tiger Butter Cookie Bars
- Christmas Tree & Wreath Veggie Trays
- Elf Bait Snack Mix
- Reindeer Cookies
- Reindeer Chow
- Southern Pecan Butter Balls
- Butterscotch Haystacks
- Rice Krispies Christmas Wreaths
- Crock Pot Candy
- Sweet Holiday Chex Mix
- Homemade Peanut Brittle
- Potato Candy
- Christmas Jell-O Poke Cake
- Christmas Candy Bark
- Oreo Cookie Balls
- Christmas Tree Shaped Cheeseball
- Cut Out Sugar Cookies
- Ultimate Christmas Recipe Roundup
- Meringue Christmas Trees
- Christmas Tree Pop Tarts
- Ritz Cracker Christmas Ornament Cookies
Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies
Print
Pin
45
12
1
1
57
12
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
-
4
cups
all-purpose flour -
½
cup
cornstarch -
pinch
of salt -
1
cup
(2 sticks) butter,
room temperature -
1
cup
granulated sugar -
2
eggs -
1
teaspoon
vanilla extract -
½
cup
homemade or store-bought strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat your oven 350 F and line your baking tray with parchment paper and set aside. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients – flour, cornstarch, and salt together and set aside.
- In a stand mixer (you can also go ahead and use the hand mixer for this) add in the butter and sugar and beat it at medium speed, scraping down the sides for at least 2-3 mins.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract and beat until everything is incorporated well.
- Add the flour mixture to the butter-egg mixture in batches and mix it well to form the dough. Flatten the dough and wrap it with a cling wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Once chilled, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut out tree-shaped cookies. Also, cut out the center of half of the cookies using the same shape cutter in a smaller size. Place them on the prepared baking tray and bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are slightly golden.
- Apply a thick layer of strawberry jam to the bottom of the whole cookie, but leave a thin border around each cookie and place the corresponding cut-out cookies on top of it carefully.
- Next, using a spoon fill the cut-out centers of the cookies with some more jam.
Notes
- These can be doubled for gift giving or holiday gatherings.
- These can be frozen, see my tips above.
- You can switch up the jam flavor to your liking.
Dessert
American
Nutrition (Estimated)
Calories:
423
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
63
g
|
Protein:
5
g
|
Fat:
16
g
|
Sodium:
152
mg
|
Fiber:
1
g
|
Sugar:
24
g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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