Linzer cookies are the epitome of elegance and tradition, making them a perfect addition to your festive table.
With their delicate almond flavor and sweet jam filling, these cookies are a beautiful treat for holidays or any special occasion.
This vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free recipe will let everyone enjoy these classic cookies, no matter their dietary restrictions.
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Why Make Vegan Linzer Cookies?
Linzer cookies may look fancy, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. They’re ideal for:
- Festive Occasions: Their intricate cut-out design makes them a holiday favorite.
- Dietary Needs: Gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free, they cater to multiple dietary preferences.
- Homemade Gifts: Packaged in a decorative tin, these cookies make a thoughtful gift.
Let’s explore how to create these delectable treats step-by-step!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these vegan Linzer cookies:
For the cookies:
- 1 ¾ cups almond flour
- 1 ¼ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- ½ cup coconut sugar (or granulated sugar)
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup vegan butter, softened
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, but highly recommended)
For the filling:
- ½ cup raspberry or strawberry jam (ensure it’s vegan and sugar-free, if preferred)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to brighten the jam, optional)
For garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl: almond flour, gluten-free all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until evenly combined.
Next, add the softened vegan butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Use a spatula to mix everything until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too crumbly, add 1–2 teaspoons of cold water until it comes together.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling ensures the dough is firm and easier to roll out without sticking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough
Remove the dough from the fridge and place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness.
Use a round or scalloped cookie cutter to cut out as many cookies as possible. For half the cookies, use a smaller cutter (like a star or heart) to create a window in the center. These will be the tops of your Linzer cookies.
Gather the scraps, re-roll the dough, and repeat until all the dough is used.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small gap between them. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 6: Prepare the Jam Filling
While the cookies cool, warm the jam in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the lemon juice if desired, and stir until the jam is smooth and spreadable. Let it cool slightly.
Step 7: Assemble the Cookies
Spread a small dollop of jam onto the flat side of each bottom cookie. Gently press the top cookie (the one with the cut-out) onto the jam, creating a sandwich.
Dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy, festive touch.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Linzer Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. It makes the dough easier to work with and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
- Choose the Right Jam: Use a high-quality, seedless jam for a smoother filling. Raspberry and strawberry are traditional, but apricot or cherry work wonderfully too.
- Avoid Overbaking: These cookies are delicate, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Why These Cookies Are Healthy
Unlike traditional Linzer cookies, this vegan version swaps refined ingredients for healthier alternatives:
- Almond Flour: Provides protein, healthy fats, and a naturally nutty flavor.
- Coconut Sugar: A lower glycemic sweetener that adds caramel-like sweetness.
- Vegan Butter: Keeps the recipe dairy-free while adding the richness you expect in cookies.
Variations
- Chocolate Linzer Cookies: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative.
- Citrus Zest Addition: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies:
- With Tea or Coffee: Their nutty flavor pairs beautifully with hot beverages.
- As a Dessert Platter Highlight: Combine them with other vegan cookies for an eye-catching tray.
- As Edible Gifts: Pack them in holiday-themed tins or gift boxes to delight your loved ones.
Storage Instructions
Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you plan to freeze the cookies, store the cookies and jam separately, assembling them just before serving.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
These vegan Linzer cookies offer a stunning combination of flavor, texture, and presentation. With their crisp almond-flavored shells and sweet, tangy jam center, they’ll become a holiday staple in your household. Their simplicity and versatility make them a must-try, even beyond the holiday season.
