Vegan Linzer Cookies
If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that’s both elegant and easy to whip up, these Vegan Linzer Cookies are just what you need. With their tender almond-infused dough, luscious fruit filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or indulging on a cozy afternoon, they’re sure to impress. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s as charming as it is delicious!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The zest of lemon or orange adds a refreshing brightness to the cookies.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these cookies are accessible and easy to prepare.
- Customizable: You can fill them with your favorite jam or even lemon curd!
- Vegan-Friendly: This recipe caters to those following a vegan diet without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Beautiful Presentation: The cut-out design makes these cookies a stunning addition to any dessert table.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our cookie dough that provides structure.
- 2/3 cup almond flour – Adds a lovely nutty flavor and tender texture.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Helps to create a soft and crumbly cookie.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- 1/2 cup cane sugar – Provides sweetness and a touch of caramel flavor.
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange – Infuses the dough with a fragrant citrus note.
- 12 tablespoons salted vegan butter – At room temperature, this rich butter creates a deliciously tender cookie.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened dairy-free milk – Helps to bind the dough without adding any dairy.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Adds a depth of flavor that complements the almond flour.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic flavor that rounds out the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons powdered or confectioners sugar – For dusting, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Raspberry or apricot jam – Or substitute with another fruit jam or lemon curd for the filling.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To cream the vegan butter and sugar together smoothly.
- Baking Sheet: To bake your cookies evenly.
- Parchment Paper: For easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
- Cookie Cutters: A round cutter and a smaller one for the center cut-out.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the cookies before filling.
Vegan Linzer Cookies Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cornstarch, and kosher salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter and cane sugar using a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Flavorings
Add the lemon or orange zest, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until combined. This is where the magic happens as the aromas fill your kitchen!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the dairy-free milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix the dough.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 7: Roll Out the Dough
Once chilled, dust your work surface with flour and roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your round cookie cutter to cut out the cookies, then use a smaller cutter for the center of half of the cookies.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 9: Assemble the Cookies
Once cooled, spread a thin layer of raspberry or apricot jam on the bottom of the whole cookies. Top with the cut-out cookies to create a sandwich. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Serve your Vegan Linzer Cookies and watch them disappear! They pair perfectly with tea or coffee and are sure to delight everyone who tries them.
Fit It to Your Goals
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the cane sugar by up to 1/4 cup for a less sweet cookie.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different jams like strawberry, blueberry, or even chocolate spread!
Cook’s Notes
- Ensure your vegan butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the jam filling according to your taste preferences.
- The cookies can be made a day ahead; just assemble them right before serving.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for the best texture!
Make-Ahead & Storage
These Vegan Linzer Cookies can be made ahead of time. The cookie dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Once baked and assembled, the cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The powdered sugar may absorb moisture, so it’s best to dust them just before serving for that perfect presentation.
Vegan Linzer Cookies FAQs
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes! You can experiment with different flours, such as gluten-free flour blends or oat flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
What can I substitute for the vegan butter?
You can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine in place of vegan butter, but ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for a slight golden edge on the cookies; they should be firm to the touch but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I make these cookies without the jam filling?
Absolutely! You can enjoy these cookies plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple treat.
Let’s Eat
These Vegan Linzer Cookies embody the essence of delightful baking with their rich flavors and beautiful presentation. They are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. As you take a bite, let the buttery, nutty cookie and the tangy filling transport you to a world of sweet bliss. Happy baking!
Vegan Linzer Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cornstarch, and kosher salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In another bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter and cane sugar using a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the lemon or orange zest, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the dairy-free milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, dust your work surface with flour and roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your round cookie cutter to cut out the cookies, then use a smaller cutter for the center of half of the cookies.
- Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, spread a thin layer of raspberry or apricot jam on the bottom of the whole cookies. Top with the cut-out cookies to create a sandwich. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
- Serve your Vegan Linzer Cookies and watch them disappear!
Notes
- Ensure your vegan butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the jam filling according to your taste preferences.
- The cookies can be made a day ahead; just assemble them right before serving.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for the best texture!
