Linzer Cookies

Another new german cookie to add to my collection of Christmas cookies.  I added three spices i.e. cinnamon, cardamon and cloves in the dough.  Apart from the spices, I also added ground almonds. One may add clear cherry liquor for the extra taste.  The top biscuits with hearts are sprinkled with icing sugar and assembled together to their bases with red or blackcurrant jam.

Ingredients (yields about 100 pieces):

450 g cold butter

220 g icing sugar

60 g vanilla sugar

a pinch of salt

3 eggs

1/4 tsp cardamon powder

1/4 tsp cinnamon powder

1/4 tsp cloves powder

450 g flour type 550 or plain flour

450 g ground almond

3 tsp clear cherry liquor/Kirschwasser (optional)

extra icing sugar for topping

400 g red or blackcurrant jam

Method:

In a mixing bowl, knead butter, icing sugar and vanilla sugar together.  Then, add egg, salt, spices and cherry liquor (optional).  Gradually add flour and ground almond. Knead mixture to a pliable dough.  Wrap dough in a cling wrap and leave in the fridge overnight.

Roll out dough on a well floured worktop.  Cut out your desired shape and arrange on a baking tray which is lined with baking paper.  Ensure that the bases and tops with an opening are cut out as shown.

Bake in a preheated fan oven at a temperature of 150° C for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Leave to cool down completely.

In a saucepan, heat jam over low heat and stir until smooth.  Leave aside to cool down a bit.  Arrange the tops on a baking tray and sprinkle with icing sugar.

To assemble, spread a little jam on the bases and carefully place the tops over it.  Leave to dry before storing in an airtight tin.

Happy Baking!