Description
Indulge in the timeless charm of Delightful Nutty Linzer Cookies, a delectable treat combining buttery richness with a delightful nutty twist. These cookies are not only visually appealing with their intricate cut-out designs but are also irresistibly tasty. With a sweet filling sandwiched between two beautifully patterned cookies, they’re perfect for festive occasions, formal gatherings, or as a special treat during the coffee break.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3/4 pound (340 grams) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) confectioner’s sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1 and 1/2 cups (150 grams) ground pecans, hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Trays: Start by lining 3-4 baking trays with parchment paper to ensure your cookies do not stick and are easy to remove after baking.
- Mix the Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, confectioner’s sugar, salt, and vanilla extract on low speed. Increase to high speed once the sugars are fully incorporated, beating until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Combine Flour and Optional Nuts: If using nuts, mix 1 cup of the flour with the ground nuts to coat them evenly. Gradually add this mixture and the remaining flour to the creamy butter mixture in batches, beating until a cohesive dough forms.
- Roll Out the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Roll out to about a quarter inch thick for thinner cookies, which are ideal for Linzer sandwiches.
- Cut Out the Cookies: Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. For the Linzer sandwich effect, cut out the center of half the cookies using a smaller cookie cutter.
- Chill the Cookies: Place the cut cookies on the prepared trays and chill in the fridge or freezer for 15-30 minutes to help them hold their shape during baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden around the edges. Rotate the baking trays halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Assemble the Cookies: Once cooled, spread your chosen filling on the flat side of the solid cookies and dust the cut-out cookies with powdered sugar before sandwiching them together.