Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Salted Caramel Linzer Cookies

Salted Caramel Linzer Cookies

Salted Caramel Linzer Cookies combine the classic almond shortbread’s tender texture with a luscious salted caramel center, creating a perfectly balanced sweet and salty treat. These elegant cookies are easy to make, customizable, and ideal for gifting or enjoying as a sophisticated snack.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

  • Cold unsalted butter (1 cup, 227g)
  • Granulated sugar (3/4 cup, 150g)
  • Egg yolks (2 large)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • All-purpose flour (2 cups, 240g)
  • Ground almonds (1 cup, 100g)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Filling and Finishing

  • Salted caramel sauce (about 1 cup or as needed)
  • Sea salt flakes (to sprinkle on top)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: Start by creaming together the cold unsalted butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Then, mix in the egg yolks and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  2. Roll and cut the cookies: Once chilled, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter for the base cookies and a smaller shaped cutter (like a heart or star) for the tops that will create the window for the caramel. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them evenly.
  3. Bake to perfection: Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until edges just begin to turn golden. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack as this helps prevent the caramel from melting upon assembly.
  4. Assemble with salted caramel: Spread a generous layer of salted caramel sauce on each base cookie. Gently press a top cookie with the cut-out window on top, aligning them carefully to showcase the caramel center. Lightly sprinkle sea salt flakes over the assembled cookies to enhance the salted caramel flavor.
  5. Chill and serve: Pop the finished cookies into the fridge for 15-20 minutes so the caramel sets slightly. This helps keep the layers neatly bonded when you enjoy these delectable treats.

Notes

  • Chill the dough well: Cold dough is easier to work with and prevents spreading during baking.
  • Use quality caramel: Homemade or a good store-bought salted caramel sauce makes a huge difference in flavor.
  • Don’t overbake: Aim for just a hint of golden at the edges for a tender shortbread texture.
  • Line your baking sheets: Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and help even baking.
  • Customize cut-outs: Use different shapes to match the occasion or season.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: European
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: salted caramel, linzer cookies, shortbread, almond cookies, holiday cookies, caramel cookies, homemade cookies