Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies

Name: Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup ground almonds; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup raspberry jam; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Everyday Dessert Recipes

Delightful and buttery, these Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. With a sweet jam filling and a signature cut-out design, they are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T19:30:27.561Z

These Linzer cookies have their origins in Austria, where they have been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of nutty dough and sweet jam filling makes them a beloved treat worldwide. Perfect for holidays, tea time, or simply as a sweet indulgence!

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture
Sweet and tangy jam filling that bursts with flavor
Beautifully presented with a classic cut-out design

      

The History of Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies have their origins in Austria, specifically in the city of Linz, where the famous Linzer Torte was first created. Dating back to the 17th century, this dessert features a rich pastry crust filled with fruit preserves and topped with a lattice design. The cookie version, which we enjoy today, is a delightful adaptation that captures the essence of the original torte, making it a beloved treat around the world.

These cookies are especially popular during the holiday season, often gracing dessert tables and gift baskets. Their intricate design and sweet filling make them not only a delicious treat but also a beautiful addition to any festive gathering. As generations have passed, bakers have added their personal touches, experimenting with various jams and nut flours, further enhancing the flavors and textures of this classic treat.

Perfect Pairings

Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving them with a cup of hot tea or coffee; the buttery texture and sweet jam filling complement the rich flavors of both. For a more festive touch, these cookies also go wonderfully with mulled wine or spiced cider during the colder months.

If you're hosting a gathering, these cookies can be part of a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies, mini tarts, or chocolate truffles. Their unique shape and vibrant jam filling add color and interest, making your dessert spread visually appealing. Don't forget to experiment with different jams, like apricot or cherry, to create your own signature twist on this classic recipe.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, though they are often devoured much sooner! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them fresh for up to two weeks.

If you plan to make these cookies in advance, they freeze beautifully. Simply layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be as delightful as when they were first baked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jam-Filled Linzer Eye Cookies:

For the Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup ground almonds
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Filling

1 cup raspberry jam
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start baking.

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. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and ground almonds. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Form the dough into a disk, wrap 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 lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out shapes, and then use a smaller cutter to cut out the centers of half of the cookies to create the eye effect. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

Fill and Assemble

Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of raspberry jam on the solid cookies and place the cut-out cookies on top. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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

Tips for Success

To ensure a successful batch of Linzer cookies, it’s important to properly chill the dough. This helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking and makes the rolling process easier. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour as needed, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can affect the texture.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a consistent thickness of about 1/8 inch. This will help the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using a sharp cookie cutter will also help create clean edges, ensuring that your cookies have a polished look.

Variations to Try

While raspberry jam is a classic choice for these cookies, feel free to get creative with your fillings. Try using strawberry, apricot, or even a chocolate hazelnut spread for a different flavor profile. Each variation offers a unique twist, making your Linzer cookies an exciting treat for everyone.

You can also experiment with the spices used in the dough. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a hint of cardamom can elevate the flavors and add a warm, aromatic touch. For a nut-free version, consider substituting the ground almonds with finely ground oats or additional flour, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any jam flavor you prefer, such as apricot, strawberry, or even chocolate spread.

→ How do I store these cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

→ What can I substitute for ground almonds?

You can replace ground almonds with ground walnuts or even all-purpose flour if nut allergies are a concern.