Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful and visually appealing, Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are a classic treat that combines a buttery, nutty cookie with a luscious jam filling, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:10:28.130Z

These Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are inspired by traditional Austrian Linzer Torte. With their signature cut-out shapes and vibrant jam centers, they are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for holidays or as a sweet treat any day of the year!

Why You'll Love These Cookies

  • A delicate balance of buttery cookie and sweet jam
  • Impressive appearance that delights guests
  • Perfect for gifting or holiday cookie platters

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are not just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that elevates any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration, a birthday party, or simply a cozy afternoon tea, these cookies will impress your guests with their beautiful presentation and rich flavors. The combination of buttery, nutty cookie and sweet jam filling creates a perfect harmony that tantalizes the taste buds.

These cookies also make for an excellent gift. Pack them in a decorative box or tin, and they become a thoughtful present for friends and family. Their charming appearance and delicious taste will leave a memorable impression, making them a favorite among recipients. From festive occasions to casual get-togethers, Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are versatile enough to suit any event.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve perfect Linzer Eye Cookies, it's essential to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh, flavorful fruit jam and real butter for the best results. Almond flour adds a distinct nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately to ensure the right texture and consistency.

Chilling the dough is a crucial step that shouldn’t be overlooked. It firms up the butter, making the dough easier to roll out and cut. If the dough becomes too warm while rolling, it can be challenging to work with, and the cookies may lose their shape during baking. Take your time and don’t rush this step for the best outcome.

Customizing Your Cookies

Feel free to experiment with different flavors of jam to suit your taste preferences. While raspberry and apricot are traditional favorites, you can try strawberry, blueberry, or even homemade jam to give your cookies a personal touch. Each variety will bring its unique flavor profile, making every batch a delightful surprise.

Additionally, you can get creative with the shapes and sizes of your cookies. While the classic Linzer shape is charming, using holiday-themed cookie cutters can add a festive twist. Consider making heart shapes for Valentine’s Day or stars for the winter holidays. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to showcase your personality through your baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cookies:

For the Cookies

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup fruit jam (raspberry or apricot recommended)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Roll and Cut the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to create a hole in the center to form the 'eye' of the cookie. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake and Fill

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Spread a teaspoon of jam on the solid cookies and top with the cut-out cookies to create a sandwich. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storage and Shelf Life

Once baked, Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If desired, you can sprinkle them with powdered sugar just before serving for an added touch of elegance. This makes it convenient to have a batch ready for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings.

Nutritional Information

Each Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookie offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, but it's also essential to be mindful of nutritional content. These cookies are rich in carbohydrates and sugars due to the jam and sugar content, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The almond flour provides a source of healthy fats and protein, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the treat.

If you're looking to create a lighter version, consider substituting some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or using a sugar alternative in your dough. These adjustments can help reduce the calorie count without sacrificing too much flavor. However, the classic recipe is what makes these cookies so special, so indulge every once in a while!

Inspiration for Serving

Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are not just a treat; they can be part of an elegant dessert spread. Consider pairing them with a selection of teas or coffees for a sophisticated afternoon tea experience. Their delightful sweetness complements the bitterness of coffee and the subtle flavors of various teas, creating a balanced tasting experience.

For a festive touch, serve these cookies alongside other classic holiday treats, like gingerbread or peppermint bark, on a beautifully arranged dessert platter. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides your guests with a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy. Whether for a casual gathering or a special celebration, these cookies will surely be a star attraction.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of jam?

Yes, you can use any fruit jam you like! Raspberry and apricot are traditional choices.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can use additional all-purpose flour instead of almond flour if you have nut allergies.

Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies

Delightful and visually appealing, Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are a classic treat that combines a buttery, nutty cookie with a luscious jam filling, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 cup almond flour
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  5. 1 large egg
  6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  7. 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  8. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  9. 1/2 cup fruit jam (raspberry or apricot recommended)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to create a hole in the center to form the 'eye' of the cookie. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 03

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Spread a teaspoon of jam on the solid cookies and top with the cut-out cookies to create a sandwich. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 2g