🍪 Linzer Strips Recipe
Description: Indulge in the delightful taste of Linzer Strips, a classic Austrian dessert that’s perfect for winter evenings, Christmas celebrations, or any weeknight treat. These European delights combine buttery goodness with a hint of almond and fruity sweetness, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors in every bite.
Cook Time: 17 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 17 minutes
Yield: Approximately 72 cookies
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 74.5
- Fat: 4.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8g
- Cholesterol: 12.7mg
- Sodium: 21.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 8.7g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 4.3g
- Protein: 1.2g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup ground nuts (e.g., almonds, hazelnuts)
- Fruit spread (e.g., raspberry, apricot)
- Almond slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine butter and sugar: In a large mixer bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and almond extract: Beat in the eggs and almond extract until well mixed.
- Incorporate flour and ground nuts: Gradually add the flour and ground nuts to the mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide and roll dough: Divide the dough into 8 equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll each part into an 8-inch log.
- Chill the dough: Wrap each log in plastic food wrap and refrigerate until firm, approximately 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven: Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare cookie sheets: Place the chilled logs on cookie sheets. Gently pat each log into a 2-inch wide strip.
- Create indentation: Using the back of a spoon, press a 1-inch wide indentation lengthwise down the center of each strip.
- Bake: Bake the strips in the preheated oven for 17-19 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Add filling: While the cookies are still warm, spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of fruit spread into the indentation of each log. Sprinkle with almond slices for an extra touch of flavor and elegance.
- Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the cookies diagonally into 1-inch pieces. Allow them to cool completely on the cookie sheet before serving.
These Linzer Strips are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious, with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Serve them alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful treat that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of these homemade delights during the chilly winter months or as a special addition to your holiday dessert table. 🎄🍽️
