Gluten-Free Linzer Cookies
Linzer cookies are a traditional Austrian treat originating from the city of Linz. These small, delicate cookies are made with buttery dough, typically prepared with almond or hazelnut flour, and filled with a layer of fruit jam, usually raspberry or red currant. The top cookie features a small cutout, showcasing the filling and giving these cookies their signature appearance. With such an irresistible flavor, creating a gluten-free Linzer cookies was simply a must!
Thanks to Austrian immigrants, Linzer cookies have become a beloved Christmas treat worldwide. While the original recipe often incorporates ground nuts, I’ve adapted it to a nut-free version. However, you can easily replace part of the flour with ground nuts for a more traditional taste.
The filling is usually a tart jam, offering a delightful contrast to the sweet dough. But feel free to experiment with other options like strawberry, apricot, or apple jam. Chocolate lovers can even use chocolate spread for the filling—or make the dough itself chocolate-flavored!
The defining feature of these cookies is the little “window” in the top cookie. Gluten-free Linzer cookies can be shaped however you like—circles, stars, hearts. The key is to cut out a small window in half of the cookies before baking.
Ingredients:
- 150 g of my gluten-free cookie mix
- 120 g vegan butter
- 40 g sugar (I prefer coconut sugar)
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2 tbsp hot water
- 1 tsp psyllium husk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Jam of your choice
In a mixer bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the flaxseed mix (flaxseed combined with hot water) and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a dough. For chocolate cookies, replace 10 g of the flour with 10 g of cocoa powder.
Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to your desired cookie thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape the cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut small “windows” in half of the cookies. Gather and re-roll the leftover dough until all of it is used.
Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 12-15 minutes. Let the cookies cool completely.
Spread a little jam on the flat side of a full cookie, then sandwich it with a cookie with a “window.”
Your gluten-free Linzer cookies are ready to enjoy! These charming treats are not only delicious but also perfect for spreading holiday cheer.
