Cranberry Linzer Cookies

Soft and crumbly almond cookies flecked with dried cranberries and filled with cranberry jam make these Cranberry Linzer Cookies a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or as a sweet gift. Their unique flavor profile, combining tart cranberries with nutty almond flour, sets them apart from ordinary cookies. Plus, they’re visually stunning, making them an impressive addition to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of almond and cranberry offers a sweet yet slightly tart taste that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy night in with tea, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Unique Presentation: The cut-out shapes and jam center create an eye-catching dessert that impresses guests.
• Make-Ahead Option: These cookies can be prepared in advance and stored, making them great for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cranberry Linzer Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even baking; they provide a sturdy base for your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining your ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect dough thickness for cut-out cookies.

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

Start by making the cranberry jam filling:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, and water.
2. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

Prepare your cookie dough:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, and finely chopped dried cranberries.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined into a soft dough.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Chill the dough to make it easier to work with:
1. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Roll Out and Cut Cookies

Roll out your chilled dough:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. On a floured surface, roll out half of the dough to about 5 mm thick.
3. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes; remember to make half of them with openings in the center.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies:
1. Place cookie shapes on lined baking sheets.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
3. Let cool on wire racks.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cookies

Assemble your delicious treats:
1. Spread cranberry jam on each whole cookie base.
2. Top with cut-out cookie shapes.
3. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked Cranberry Linzer Cookies! They’re sure to be a hit wherever you share them!

How to Serve Cranberry Linzer Cookies

Cranberry Linzer Cookies are delightful treats that can brighten any occasion. Their soft texture and sweet-tart cranberry filling make them perfect for a variety of serving ideas.

With a Warm Cup of Tea

• A warm cup of chamomile or black tea complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a relaxing treat time.

As a Holiday Dessert Platter

• Arrange Cranberry Linzer Cookies on a festive platter alongside other holiday cookies for a vibrant dessert display.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Serve your cookies with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness will enhance the cranberry flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert that adds creaminess to each bite.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with vanilla or raspberry ice cream for a deliciously cold contrast to the warm cookie texture.

How to Perfect Cranberry Linzer Cookies

To make sure your Cranberry Linzer Cookies turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that butter and eggs are at room temperature helps achieve a smooth dough and better texture.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps maintain the shape during baking and enhances flavors.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents tough cookies and keeps them soft and crumbly.

• Finely chop dried cranberries: This helps distribute the cranberry flavor evenly throughout the cookie, enhancing taste in every bite.

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving: A light sprinkle adds an elegant touch and balances the flavors with its sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Linzer Cookies

Cranberry Linzer Cookies can be enjoyed alongside several delicious side dishes that complement their flavor profile. Here are some great pairings:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

3. Mixed Nuts
   Roasted nuts add crunch and saltiness, making them an excellent accompaniment for your treat time.

4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy side dish that pairs well with the cookies’ texture.

5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   The sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries enhances the tartness of cranberry cookies beautifully.

6. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm cup of spiced apple cider offers cozy warmth, making it perfect for winter gatherings along with cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cranberry Linzer Cookies can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes may affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to tough cookies. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for a light texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in dense cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a tender crumb.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the cookies to spread excessively while baking. Chill your dough for at least an hour for better shape retention.
• Using old ingredients: Expired baking powder or old flour can ruin your cookies. Always check dates on your ingredients to ensure freshness.
• Skipping the powdered sugar sprinkle: Not adding powdered sugar after baking can miss out on that beautiful finish and extra sweetness. Don’t forget this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cranberry Linzer Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag after firm (up to 3 months).
• Make sure cookies are completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating Cranberry Linzer Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cranberry Linzer Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may need to adjust the sugar levels since they are more tart.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Cranberry Linzer Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.

What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can use all-purpose flour or hazelnut flour if you want an alternative flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover cranberry jam?

Store leftover cranberry jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that has xanthan gum included.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Linzer Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Their crumbly almond base paired with tart cranberry jam is simply irresistible. Feel free to customize them by using different jams or adding nuts. Give these cookies a try; they might just become your new favorite treat!

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Cranberry Linzer Cookies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Cranberry Linzer Cookies, featuring a soft and crumbly almond base paired with a luscious cranberry jam filling. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon tea. Their unique flavor combination of nutty almond and tart cranberry offers a sweet yet slightly tangy experience that is sure to impress. With an elegant presentation and make-ahead convenience, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 300 g cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 150 g granulated sugar
• 150 g water
• 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 dusting)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cranberry jam by combining cranberries, granulated sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until thickened (10-15 minutes), then cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter with both sugars until fluffy. Add eggs one by one, followed by vanilla.
3. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, and dried cranberries. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.
4. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
5. Roll out half of the dough on a floured surface to about 5 mm thick. Cut out shapes, ensuring half have openings.
6. Place cutouts on lined baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool before assembling.
7. Spread cranberry jam on whole cookie bases and top with cut-out shapes. Dust with powdered sugar.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 135
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg