Cherry Linzer Heart Cookies say it all in the way of “you’re special.” Tenderly crumbly, light-butter cookies filled with a tangy cherry jam–very nice to both look and eat–and in heart shapes sprinkled with powdered sugar, perfect for celebrations or just to let someone know you are thinking of them.
In this article, we are going to show you how to make these cookies-from some of the important ingredients to some of the necessary techniques-so that this baking can be as unforgettable as the cookies.
Linzer Cookies Started with Something Sweet
Linzer cookies originate from Austria, where one of the oldest types of cakes is the Linzer Torte. These cookies are smaller sizes of torte, and these cookies have turned amazingly to become famous in most parts of the world, changing according to the cultures and tastes.
For me baking Linzer cookies is a special family tradition for me. From when I was a little child, I spent so much time with my grandmother in the kitchen, rolling the dough and cutting the shapes. I remember how from very simple ingredients, something great could be made. Every single time I bake those kinds of cookies, special memories come to my mind.
Essential Ingredients for Cherry Linzer Heart Cookies
Where they shine is in their simplicity, while ingredients are all staple-pantry items, coming together to produce a seriously indulgent cookie.
The Dough: A Buttery Foundation
Linzer cookies are all about the feel: soft, melting in one’s mouth. Made with a rich dough of softened butter, a bit of extra flavor from egg yolk, mixed granulated and powdered sugar for smooth sweetness, and, of course, additions of flavorings like vanilla and almond extracts, a pinch of salt is added to balance the flavors.
The Filling: Tangy Cherry Goodness
The heart of these cookies is the filling of cherry jam, really. A good cherry preserve is better with a little lemon juice; that way, it will be in nice contrast with the buttery base. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon for a warm and nice smell.
The Finishing Touch: Snowy Elegance
It finishes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, placing a nice finish on these cookies, sweetening them lightly to bring it all together.
Crafting the Perfect Dough
The whole process is initiated with precision: whisking keeps the dry ingredients impersonally distributed, while creaming the butter with sugars aerates the mixture to add tenderness to the cookies.
After adding dry ingredients, do not overmix-gentle mix is essential. Dividing the dough into discs and refrigeration helps firm up the butter, hence is easy to handle, and the cookies retain shapes during baking.
Making Shapes and Baking: A fun but tricky process
Take your time in rolling out the dough; this dough is soft and can break easily. Keep the surface a little floured and roll to the same thickness so cookies bake evenly. Time to cut out hearts: be creative. Make “windows” with the smaller cutter on half of the cookies for the looks; it’s fun.
A quick chill on shaped cookies is a little move with big returns-this makes them hold edges and shapes. Finally, bake at 350°F (175°C) until edges are golden, thus enabling a crunchy and soft bite.
The Filling and Assembly: Where It All Comes Together
These cookies are more than candies; they are moments. A show of love and toil, from the mixing of dough to the assembly of each cookie, these heart-shaped treats with bright cherry centers are just as much fun to make as they are to eat.
Whether it be a holiday, a wedding, or just for fun, the Cherry Linzer Heart Cookie is one that has stood the test of time and never disappoints.
Tips for Success
- Chill Often: Keep the dough cool throughout the process to ensure easy handling and sharp edges.
- Roll Evenly: Using rolling pin guides or dowels can help achieve a consistent thickness.
- Store Smartly: If you’re planning ahead, store baked cookies and filling separately, assembling them just before serving to preserve freshness.
Why Cherry Linzer Heart Cookies Are So Special
These cookies aren’t just desserts—they’re experiences. From the careful preparation of the dough to the thoughtful assembly of each cookie, they embody love and effort. Their heart-shaped design and vibrant cherry centers make them perfect for gifting, while their flavor ensures they’re as delightful to eat as they are to make.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a wedding, or simply for fun, Cherry Linzer Heart Cookies are a timeless choice that never fails to impress.
Now It’s Your Turn
Have you ever made Linzer cookies? If not, these Cherry Linzer Heart Cookies are a great place to start.
With a rich, buttery, tangy flavor burst with cherry filling, they will surely impress anyone who tastes them. Like this recipe? Save it for your next baking fun or pass it along to someone who could use a little sweetness in their life. Enjoy!
Cherry Linzer Heart Cookies Recipe
Course: Christmas Dessert Recipes, Cookies20-25
servings1
hour30
minutes10
minutes120
kcalIngredients
- For the Cookies:
2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for extra depth of flavor)
- For the Cherry Filling:
1/2 cup (120g) cherry preserves or cherry jam
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Optional: A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
- For Dusting:
1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
Steps
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, stirring just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
- Step 2: Roll and Cut the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. For half of the cookies, cut out a smaller heart shape in the center to create “windows.”
- Gather and re-roll scraps as needed. Repeat with the second dough disc.
- Place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets and chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a small saucepan, warm the cherry preserves and lemon juice over low heat, stirring until smooth. If desired, stir in a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before assembling the cookies.
- Step 5: Assemble the Cookies
- Spread a small amount of cherry filling onto the flat side of each solid cookie.
- Gently place a “window” cookie on top, pressing lightly to sandwich them together.
- Dust the tops generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
