Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies are the festive treat that looks as delightful as they taste. Imagine buttery, almond-flavored cookies, adorned with sweet raspberry jam, and shaped like cheerful little Christmas trees. festive hand pies recipe The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing in to see what’s baking, and the sight of these cookies will make anyone’s heart swell with holiday cheer.
As a child, I remember my grandmother and I would spend hours in the kitchen baking these delightful treats. We would giggle as we sprinkled powdered sugar on top, turning our kitchen into a winter wonderland. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply for enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa while snuggled up by the fireplace. more Christmas tree treats Get ready to bring joy and sweetness into your home with these delightful Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers
- Their nutty flavor pairs beautifully with tart raspberry jam, creating a delightful contrast
- The visual appeal of these cookies makes them a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, you can easily customize them for different occasions by using various shapes and fillings
I still remember the delighted squeals from my kids when they first saw these cookies fresh out of the oven.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: This is your main ingredient; ensure it’s fresh for the best texture in your cookies.
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Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for that perfect flaky texture; it must be softened but not melted.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetness comes from sugar; adjust based on how sweet you want your cookies. For more inspiration, check out this sweet potato au gratin recipe.
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Powdered Sugar: This will give you that snowy finish on top of your cookies; sift it for a smooth dusting.
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Almond Extract: A splash adds a nutty warmth; if you’re not a fan, vanilla extract works too.
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Raspberry Jam: Choose high-quality jam for an authentic taste; homemade is even better if you have it!
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Egg Yolk: This helps bind everything together; don’t skip it unless using an egg substitute.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, so don’t forget this tiny but mighty ingredient.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Create Your Dough: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. cinnamon whipped cream pairing The mixture should appear pale and airy—this is where the magic begins. mini cinnamon sugar doughnuts.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in flour, salt, and almond extract to the mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which can lead to tough cookies.
Chill Your Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling makes rolling easier and gives your cookies that crisp texture we all love.
Roll Out & Cut Shapes: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters shaped like trees (or any festive shape) to cut out cookies. For half of them, cut out a smaller shape in the center—it’s where the jam will peek through!
Bake Your Cookies: Place your cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes burnt cookies!
Assemble & Enjoy!: Once cooled completely, spread raspberry jam on each solid cookie base before placing the cut-out tops on each one. Dust with powdered sugar for that snowy effect! Enjoy with loved ones or hide them away—your secret is safe with me!
You Must Know
- Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies are not just festive; they’re a delightful blend of textures and flavors
- The buttery cookie pairs perfectly with the tart raspberry filling, making them irresistible
- Remember, these cookies are more than a treat; they’re a holiday tradition waiting to happen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create perfect Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies, start by chilling your dough for at least an hour. This prevents spreading during baking and ensures crisp edges. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving cranberry turkey stuffing recipe.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping raspberry jam with apricot or strawberry for a fruity twist. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top to add a festive flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, freeze them between layers of parchment paper.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold butter to achieve that flaky texture in your cookies
- Don’t skip chilling the dough, as it makes a huge difference in the final product
- Make sure to roll out the dough evenly for uniform baking and presentation
Baking these cookies always brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and flour clouds. She’d say, “The secret ingredient is always love… and maybe some chocolate!”
FAQ
Can I use different fillings for Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various jams like apricot, cherry, or even Nutella.
How do I prevent my dough from sticking?
Chill the dough well before rolling it out and dust your work surface with flour.
What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
A light dusting of powdered sugar or colorful sprinkles adds festive cheer and visual appeal!
Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in the holiday spirit with these charming Christmas Tree Linzer Cookies. Buttery, almond-flavored cookies filled with sweet raspberry jam create a festive treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire, these cookies will surely bring joy to your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in flour, salt, and almond extract until just combined.
- Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
- Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out tree shapes and cut smaller shapes from half of them for the jam filling.
- Place cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Once cooled, spread raspberry jam on solid cookies and top with cut-out pieces. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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