If you have a sweet tooth and a love for classic cookies with a twist, then this Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies Recipe is about to be your new obsession. These delightful sandwich cookies boast a tender, almond-studded pastry with just the right hint of cinnamon, perfectly hugging luscious, creamy dulce de leche in the center. The subtle dusting of powdered sugar on top gives each bite a delicate, snowy finish. Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or just a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies bring together texture and flavor in a way that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. Each item plays a key role—whether lending richness, flavor, or that tender crumb that gives Linzer cookies their signature feel.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Soft butter ensures your dough is creamy and creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a light, fluffy dough when creamed with butter.
- 1 large egg yolk: Provides richness and helps bind the dough for tender cookies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic notes that complement the dulce de leche perfectly.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, creating structure without heaviness.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers a subtle hint of spice enhancing the almond and caramel flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the flavors in every bite.
- ½ cup finely ground almonds or almond flour: Adds a wonderful nutty flavor and delicate texture essential for Linzer cookies.
- ½ to ¾ cup dulce de leche (for filling): The star ingredient that provides creamy, caramel sweetness that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): A finishing touch that adds visual appeal and a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Begin by creaming together your softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this step is key for creating tender cookies. Next, mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until everything is well combined, giving the dough that rich, aromatic base we’re aiming for. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, salt, and finely ground almonds to evenly distribute the flavor and dryness. Gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Divide this dough into two portions, flatten them into disks, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chill time is crucial, as it firms up the butter and makes the dough easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round or fluted cookie cutter about 2 inches wide, cut out your cookies. For half of them, use a smaller cutter to create a charming little window in the center—this is what will expose the beautiful dulce de leche filling once assembled. Place all the cut cookies carefully onto your baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until their edges turn a beautiful light golden hue. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be pure joy, a mix of almonds and cinnamon. Once baked, transfer the cookies onto wire racks and let them cool completely. It’s important they cool fully so the dulce de leche filling doesn’t melt and make the sandwiches messy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Now comes the fun part—assembly. Spread about 1 teaspoon of dulce de leche onto the flat side of each whole cookie, then gently press a cut-out cookie with the window on top. The sweet caramel filling peeking through the center window makes these Linzer cookies extra special. Once all cookies are sandwiched, give them a delicate dusting of powdered sugar for that classic, snowy look that feels just right for any gathering or gift.
How to Serve Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation, add a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. If you want to highlight the almond flavor even more, consider garnishing each cookie with a slivered almond on top or a tiny sprinkle of edible gold dust for an elegant touch that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
These Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of rich coffee or a mellow black tea, making them perfect for afternoon tea parties. For a more indulgent dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness with fresh and cool notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these cookies in a clear glass jar wrapped with a festive ribbon for a delightful homemade gift. Alternatively, arrange them on a pretty platter with other small cookies and chocolates for a diverse dessert table display. You could even sandwich a thin slice of fresh fruit like strawberry between the cookie and dulce de leche for a fresh twist that bursts with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, store your Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their perfect texture and flavor. If you prefer, keep the cookies and the dulce de leche filling separate and assemble them just before serving to retain maximum freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed as usual. For the baked cookies, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Assemble with dulce de leche after thawing for best results.
Reheating
Reheat assembled cookies gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes if you want to serve them warm—just be sure to watch closely so the delicate dulce de leche doesn’t melt out. Otherwise, they’re perfectly enjoyable at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly and saves time while still delivering that rich, caramel flavor. If you have time, homemade dulce de leche is wonderful too but not necessary.
What is the best way to grind almonds for these cookies?
To achieve the ideal texture, use finely ground almonds or almond flour. For added flavor, lightly toast the almonds first, then pulse them in a food processor until finely ground but not turning into almond butter.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1 for regular flour. Just be mindful that texture might differ slightly, but the cookies will still be delicious.
How long do Linzer cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies maintain their freshness for about three days. Beyond that, the cookies may soften, and the dulce de leche filling could start to lose its texture.
Can I make the cookies ahead and assemble later?
Definitely! Bake and cool the cookies, then store them separately from the dulce de leche. Assemble just before serving to keep the cookies from becoming soggy and to preserve that perfect texture contrast.
Final Thoughts
Making the Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies Recipe is like creating a little batch of happiness. The buttery, nutty cookies paired with luscious dulce de leche filling never fail to impress, whether you’re sharing them with friends or sneaking a few yourself. I can’t encourage you enough to try this recipe—it’s a fantastic way to bring a little Austrian-inspired magic into your kitchen, and I promise these cookies will become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.
Print
Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour chill time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 sandwich cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Austrian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Austrian-inspired Dulce de Leche Linzer Cookies, featuring buttery almond-spiced dough sandwiched with creamy dulce de leche and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup finely ground almonds or almond flour
Filling and Finishing
- ½ to ¾ cup dulce de leche (for filling)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground almonds. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thickness.
- Cut the Cookies: Use a round or fluted cookie cutter about 2 inches wide to cut out cookies. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to create a window in the center to mimic traditional Linzer style. Transfer all cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on wire racks.
- Assemble the Sandwich Cookies: Once cooled, spread about 1 teaspoon of dulce de leche onto the flat side of each solid cookie. Top them with the cut-out cookies and gently press down to sandwich the filling inside.
- Finish and Serve: Dust the tops of the assembled sandwich cookies with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy as a delightful treat or share during festive occasions.
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast the almonds before grinding to enhance their nuttiness.
- Store assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Alternatively, store cookies and dulce de leche separately and assemble just before serving for best texture.
- Dulce de leche can be purchased pre-made or prepared at home for a homemade touch.
