Name: Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 32
Ingredients: ⅔ cup pistachios; ⅔ cup brown sugar; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 large egg; 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract; ½ cup raspberry jam or jelly; 2 tbsp confectioners’ sugar

Embrace the delightful pairing of sweet and savory with these Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies. This Austrian-inspired treat is a dessert lover's dream, combining the rich flavors of pistachio and the tart sweetness of raspberry jam. Each cookie is a mini work of art and a bite into these little wonders reveals a perfect blend of textures and tastes.

Photos of Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies Recipe

Before you begin, take note of a couple of special ingredients. The pistachios should ideally be unsalted and shelled. They're not your everyday pantry item, so you might need to make a quick supermarket run. Secondly, the recipe calls for raspberry jam. It’s important to use a high-quality jam for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, so don't skimp on this. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even make your own!

Ingredients for Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Pistachios: These nuts are the heart of this recipe. They give the cookies a unique flavor and a delightful crunch.

Brown Sugar: It enhances the rich flavor of the cookies and gives a beautiful color.

All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cookie dough.

Baking Powder: This helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.

Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon adds a hint of warmth to the cookies.

Salt: Every sweet treat needs a bit of salt to balance the flavors.

Butter: Butter makes the cookies tender and adds a rich flavor.

Egg: The egg binds the dough together.

Vanilla Extract: This adds an aromatic sweetness to the cookies.

Raspberry Jam: The jam provides a sweet and tart contrast to the rich cookies.

Confectioners’ Sugar: This is for dusting and gives the cookies a beautiful snowy look.

One reader, Anett Hornsby says:

These raspberry pistachio linzer cookies are a delightful treat! The combination of nutty pistachios and sweet raspberry jam is simply divine. The cookies are perfectly tender and the hint of cinnamon adds a lovely warmth. They are a hit with everyone who tries them!

Anett Hornsby

Techniques Required for Making Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies

How to prepare the pistachios and brown sugar: Pulse the pistachios and 1/3 cup of the brown sugar in a food processor until finely ground.

How to chill the cookie dough: Divide the cookie dough into 2 equal portions, gently flatten into discs, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill the discs in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.

How to roll out the cookie dough: Remove 1 disc of chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. Generously flour a work surface, as well as your hands and the rolling pin. Roll out the disc until 1/4-inch thick.

How to cut the cookie dough: Using a 2-inch round or fluted cookie cutter, cut the dough into circles. Using a 1-inch round or fluted cookie cutter, cut a hole into the center of the cookies.

How to assemble the cookies: Spread 1/2 teaspoon of jam on each whole cookie. Carefully top each with a donut cookie and press down gently to create a cookie sandwich.

How To Make Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Soft Linzer cookies, made with just the right amount of pistachio nuts, sandwich this rich raspberry jam making a sweet and sour tea biscuit. Serve it warm.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅔cuppistachios,shelled
⅔cupbrown sugar,packed light or dark, divided
2½cupsall-purpose flour,spoon & leveled plus more for rolling out
½tspbaking powder
1tspground cinnamon
½tspsalt
1cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
1large egg,at room temperature
1½tsppure vanilla extract
½cupraspberry jam or jelly
2tbspconfectioners’ sugar

Instructions

Place the pistachios and 1/3 cup of the brown sugar in a food processor. Pulse into a very fine crumb. Set aside.
Whisk the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
In a large bowl using a hand-held or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and remaining brown sugar together on high speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat on high speed until combined, about 1 minute.
Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to combine.
Add the flour mixture and the ground pistachio mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined.
Divide the dough into 2 equal portions, gently flatten into discs, and wrap each in plastic wrap.
Chill the discs in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
Remove 1 disc of chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. Generously flour a work surface, as well as your hands and the rolling pin. The dough may become sticky as you work, so keep extra flour nearby to use as needed.
Roll out the disc until 1/4-inch thick. Using a 2-inch round or fluted cookie cutter, cut dough into circles. Reroll the remaining dough and continue cutting until all is used. Repeat with the second disc of dough. You should have about 64 circles.
Using a 1-inch round or fluted cookie cutter, cut a hole into the center of the cookies.
Arrange the whole circles and the donut cookies 2-inch apart and on separate baking sheets.
Bake the whole circles for about 11 minutes, or until lightly browned around the edges, and bake the donut cookies for about 10 minutes.
Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the bake time. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
Dust the cookies with confectioners’ sugar, then transfer all of the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling.
Spread 1/2 teaspoon of jam on each whole cookie. Carefully top each with a donut cookie and press down gently to create a cookie sandwich.
Cookies will stay fresh covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Recipe Notes

If chilling for longer than 3 hours, allow sitting at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before rolling because the dough will be quite hard.
Alternatively, the dough may crack when rolling out. Wait a few minutes for it to soften back up. The more you work with it, the softer (and easier to work with) it will become.

Nutrition

Calories: 131.17kcal
Fat: 7.17g
Saturated Fat: 3.85g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.17g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.64g
Carbohydrates: 15.19g
Fiber: 0.63g
Sugar: 6.10g
Protein: 1.81g
Cholesterol: 21.06mg
Sodium: 47.71mg
Calcium: 16.40mg
Potassium: 49.10mg
Iron: 0.64mg
Vitamin A: 51.57µg
Vitamin C: 0.59mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Linzer Cookies

To ensure your raspberry pistachio linzer cookies have a consistent texture and bake evenly, it's crucial to roll out your dough to an even thickness. A rolling pin with adjustable rings can be a handy tool for this. Also, when cutting out the center of the cookies, try to be as precise as possible to maintain a uniform look. Lastly, when applying the raspberry jam, be careful not to overfill as it can spill out and make the cookies soggy. A small spoon or a piping bag can help control the amount of jam you're applying.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Linzer Cookies

Prepare the dough: Make the cookie dough in advance and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to save time when you're ready to bake.

Use cookie cutters: Using cookie cutters will help you create uniform shapes and sizes for the cookies, saving time and ensuring even baking.

Pre-measure ingredients: Pre-measure all the ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the process and avoid any last-minute scrambling for ingredients.

Bake in batches: Bake the cookies in batches to ensure even baking and to save time by utilizing the oven space efficiently.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line for filling and sandwiching the cookies to streamline the process and make it more efficient.

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and save time on preparing them frequently.

Substitute Ingredients For Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies Recipe

pistachios - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for pistachios in this recipe, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
raspberry jam or jelly - Substitute with strawberry jam or jelly: Strawberry jam or jelly can be used as a substitute for raspberry jam, offering a similar fruity sweetness and vibrant color.

Presentation Ideas for Linzer Cookies

Elevate the cookie sandwich: Carefully assemble the raspberry pistachio linzer cookie sandwiches, ensuring that the jam is evenly spread and the cookies are aligned perfectly for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with crushed pistachios: Sprinkle a small amount of finely crushed pistachios over the assembled cookie sandwiches to add a pop of color and a delightful nutty texture.
Arrange on a tiered serving platter: Present the raspberry pistachio linzer cookie sandwiches on a tiered serving platter to create an elegant and visually striking display that showcases the cookies beautifully.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar: Lightly dust the assembled cookie sandwiches with a fine layer of confectioners’ sugar just before serving to add a touch of sophistication and a hint of sweetness.
Accompany with fresh raspberries: Place a few fresh raspberries strategically around the cookie sandwiches to add a burst of vibrant color and a refreshing, fruity element to the presentation.
Serve with a raspberry coulis: Drizzle a small amount of homemade raspberry coulis on the serving plates to create an artistic and flavorful element that complements the raspberry pistachio linzer cookie sandwiches.
Use a decorative serving platter: Choose a beautiful, ornate serving platter to present the cookie sandwiches, adding an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Add a sprig of fresh mint: Garnish the serving platter with a small, delicate sprig of fresh mint to bring a pop of green color and a hint of herbal fragrance to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Linzer Cookies

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It is equipped with various blades and discs to handle different tasks, making it ideal for grinding pistachios and brown sugar into a fine crumb for this recipe.
Medium bowl: A medium bowl is used for combining dry ingredients such as flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. It provides ample space for whisking and ensures even distribution of the dry components.
Hand-held or stand mixer: A hand-held or stand mixer is essential for creaming the butter and brown sugar together, as well as incorporating the egg and vanilla extract into the cookie dough. It helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to wrap the divided portions of cookie dough before chilling them in the refrigerator. It helps maintain the shape of the dough and prevents it from drying out.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Parchment paper or silicone baking mats are used to line the baking sheets. They prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan and make for easy cleanup.
Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the chilled cookie dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. It helps create uniform cookies and ensures even baking.
2-inch round or fluted cookie cutter: The cookie cutter is used to cut the rolled-out dough into circles. The fluted edge adds a decorative touch to the cookies.
1-inch round or fluted cookie cutter: This smaller cookie cutter is used to cut a hole in the center of half of the cookie circles, creating the top layer of the sandwich cookies.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets provide a flat, heatproof surface for baking the cookies in the oven. They allow for even heat distribution and promote browning.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the baked cookies. It allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy as they cool.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush may be used to brush off excess flour from the cookies before baking or to brush off any excess confectioners' sugar after dusting the assembled cookies.

Storing and Freezing Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Once the raspberry pistachio linzer cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their crisp texture, place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer of cookies.
For longer storage, you can keep the linzer cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
If you want to freeze the linzer cookies, follow these steps:
1. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Freeze the cookies until they are firm, about 2 hours.
3. Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
5. Freeze the linzer cookies for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen linzer cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer, you can also thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, the cookies will maintain their quality for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Pro Tip: For the best results, assemble the linzer cookies just before serving. This will ensure that the raspberry jam doesn't make the cookies soggy. If you need to store assembled cookies, keep them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Interesting Fact About Linzer Cookies

The Linzer cookie is named after the city of Linz, Austria, where it originated. It is a traditional Austrian pastry that is typically made with ground nuts and filled with jam. The distinctive feature of a Linzer cookie is the small cut-out in the top layer, which allows the jam to peek through. The cookie is often made with raspberry or blackcurrant jam, giving it a beautiful and delicious appearance. Linzer cookies are a popular treat during the holiday season and are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Is Making Linzer Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this raspberry pistachio linzer cookies recipe is moderate. While pistachios and raspberry jam can be pricey, the yield of 64 cookies makes it suitable for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, depending on the availability and price of ingredients. The delightful flavor and texture of these cookies make them a solid 8/10.

Are Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The raspberry pistachio linzer cookies recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in sugar, with brown sugar and confectioners' sugar being key ingredients. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Butter is used in significant quantities, which is high in saturated fat. While some saturated fat is okay, too much can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
The recipe relies heavily on all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate. Refined carbs have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients, leading to rapid spikes in blood sugar and potential health issues when consumed in excess.
While pistachios offer some nutritional benefits, such as healthy fats and protein, the amount used in this recipe is relatively small compared to the less healthy ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
Replace some or all of the butter with a healthier alternative, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt. This will help reduce the saturated fat content.
Swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or almond flour. These options provide more fiber, protein, and nutrients than refined flour.
Increase the amount of pistachios used in the recipe to boost the protein, fiber, and healthy fat content. You could also add other nutritious ingredients, such as chia seeds or ground flaxseed.
Use a low-sugar or sugar-free raspberry jam to reduce the overall sugar content of the cookies.

Editor's Opinion on This Linzer Cookie Recipe

This raspberry pistachio linzer cookies recipe is a delightful combination of nuttiness from the pistachios and the sweet-tartness of raspberry jam. The use of ground pistachios in the dough adds a unique flavor and texture, elevating these cookies to a gourmet level. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The final result is a beautiful and delicious cookie sandwich that is perfect for any occasion. These cookies are sure to impress with their intricate appearance and delightful taste.

Enhance Your Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the raspberry pistachio linzer cookies with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The vibrant colors and savory flavors will complement the sweetness of the cookies.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: For a more substantial side dish, consider serving grilled chicken skewers alongside the raspberry pistachio linzer cookies. The juicy, flavorful chicken pairs well with the nutty and fruity flavors of the cookies.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad would be a delightful accompaniment to the raspberry pistachio linzer cookies. The combination of fresh, juicy fruits will provide a light and refreshing contrast to the rich and buttery cookies.

Similar Recipes to Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines ground meat, rice, and a variety of vegetables stuffed inside colorful bell peppers. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: A refreshing and tropical dessert that combines ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds. A perfect make-ahead treat for a hot summer day.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety and comforting soup made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a touch of cream. Perfect for a cozy night in during the colder months.

Appetizers and Mains to Serve with Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection.

Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh and vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: For a light and flavorful main course, consider grilling salmon with a citrus marinade. The tangy and zesty flavors of the marinade complement the rich and buttery texture of the salmon. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a hearty and colorful main course by making stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. The peppers are baked until tender, and the filling becomes deliciously moist and flavorful. Top them with melted cheese for an extra indulgent touch.

Why trust this Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring the richness of pistachios and the sweetness of raspberry jam. The use of ground pistachios adds a unique twist to the classic linzer cookie, providing a delightful nuttiness. With a careful balance of cinnamon and vanilla extract, these cookies are sure to tantalize the taste buds. The meticulous instructions ensure a perfect outcome, and the inclusion of brown sugar and confectioners’ sugar guarantees a delectable sweetness. Trust in this recipe for a delightful and impressive treat.

Share your thoughts on the Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with almonds, hazelnuts, or any other nut of your choice. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to match the original amount of pistachios in the recipe.

Can I make the dough in advance and freeze it for later use?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and cutting the cookies.

Can I use a different flavor of jam for the filling?

Of course! While raspberry jam adds a delightful tartness, you can certainly experiment with other flavors such as strawberry, apricot, or even a citrus marmalade to suit your taste preferences.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent excessive spreading. Ensure that the dough discs are thoroughly chilled in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until firm, before rolling and cutting the cookies. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheets to allow for proper air circulation during baking.

Can I omit the confectioners’ sugar dusting on top of the cookies?

Certainly! The confectioners’ sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a decorative finish, but it can be omitted if desired. The cookies will still be delicious with or without the dusting.