Introduction

Delicate, buttery, and filled with jewel-toned jam, raspberry linzer cookies are a classic holiday favorite that never goes out of style. These sandwich cookies feature tender almond dough, lightly crisp edges, and a sweet raspberry center that peeks through a charming cut-out window. They look elegant on cookie trays yet feel comforting and familiar. Whether you bake them for Christmas, special occasions, or thoughtful gifts, these cookies deliver both beauty and irresistible flavor in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Raspberry linzer cookies combine buttery shortbread texture with bright fruit filling.
The almond flour adds depth and a delicate crumb.
The dough rolls easily and holds its shape while baking.
Cut-out centers create a bakery-style presentation.
The cookies taste even better after resting, making them ideal for make-ahead baking.

Ingredients and Notes

These ingredients create classic raspberry linzer cookies with a soft, nutty base and vibrant filling. Almond flour keeps the dough tender, while raspberry jam adds sweet contrast.

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
2 teaspoons almond extract (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup almond flour or superfine almond meal
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon fine salt

Filling and Finish

2 cups raspberry jam
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Notes and Substitutions

Use high-quality jam for the best flavor and color. Strawberry jam, apricot preserves, or lemon curd work well if you want variation. Almond extract enhances the traditional flavor, but you can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder cookie. Chilling the dough is essential for clean edges and neat raspberry linzer cookies.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create beautiful raspberry linzer cookies with crisp edges, tender centers, and clean cut-outs.

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy. This step creates a light cookie texture.
Add the egg yolk, almond extract if using, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture on low speed. Mix just until incorporated, scraping the bowl as needed.
Divide the dough in half and flatten each portion into a rectangle. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Chill the dough for about 45 minutes. If chilled longer, allow it to soften slightly before rolling.
Heat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll one portion of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Cut out cookies using a scalloped or round cutter. From half of the cookies, cut a small center shape.
Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.
Bake for 9–10 minutes, watching closely so the cookies remain pale and tender.
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Repeat with remaining dough and scraps.
Once fully cooled, dust the cut-out cookie tops with powdered sugar.
Spread about two teaspoons of raspberry jam on each solid cookie.
Top with the powdered sugar cookies, pressing gently so the filling spreads slightly.

These steps ensure raspberry linzer cookies that look polished and taste balanced, with no excess spreading or browning.

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting

Chill the dough if it becomes sticky while rolling.
Roll evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Avoid overbaking; pale cookies stay tender.
Use a thin spatula to lift cut-outs cleanly.
Assemble cookies shortly before serving for the best texture.

Serving, Storage, and Variations

Serve raspberry linzer cookies on holiday platters, with tea or coffee, or packaged as edible gifts. Their delicate look makes them perfect for celebrations. Store assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

For variations, try different jam flavors, dust with cocoa powder instead of sugar, or use heart-shaped cut-outs for Valentine’s Day. You can also sandwich cookies with chocolate hazelnut spread or lemon curd for a modern twist.

Nutrition

Approximate values per cookie:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~165
Carbohydrates	~20g
Protein	~2g
Fat	~9g
Fiber	~1g

FAQ

Can I make raspberry linzer cookies ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the cookies a day ahead and assemble closer to serving so they stay crisp.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Warm dough usually causes spreading. Chill it longer before cutting and baking raspberry linzer cookies.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Freeze wrapped dough for up to two months and thaw overnight before rolling.

Conclusion

Elegant yet approachable, raspberry linzer cookies bring together buttery almond dough and bright fruit filling in a timeless holiday treat. Their charming cut-out centers and powdered sugar finish make them a standout on any dessert table. With careful chilling and simple techniques, you can bake cookies that look bakery-perfect and taste even better. Whether shared with guests or gifted to loved ones, these cookies always leave a lasting impression.