Linzer Cookie Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 16 servings.

Dough

• 1 cups all-purpose flour
• teaspoon baking powder
• teaspoon salt
• cup butter
• cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely chopped almonds

Filling

• cup chopped dried apricots
• cup apricot preserves
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Glaze

• 1 egg white
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped almonds
• 1 tablespoon coarse granulated sugar

Directions

1. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the lemon zest, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Mix in the 1 cup of chopped almonds, then stir in the sifted dry ingredients.
5. Press 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 8x8 inch baking pan.
6. Roll the remaining dough portion between two pieces of waxed paper to an 8-inch square. Refrigerate all of the dough for at least 2 hours.
7. While the dough is chilling, place the apricots into a small saucepan with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside to cool.
9. Drain the excess liquid from the apricots, then mix in the apricot preserves and lemon juice.
10. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
11. Spread the apricot filling evenly over the chilled dough crust, leaving a -inch border on the edges.
12. Cut the chilled square of dough into -inch strips. Place the strips over the filling in a lattice design. Trim the edges to fit and press the edges into the border.
13. Brush the top of the lattice with egg white, then sprinkle with the remaining chopped almonds and coarse sugar.
14. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
15. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	228	-
Total Fat	13g	17%
Saturated Fat	5g	26%
Cholesterol	31mg	10%
Sodium	154mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	25g	9%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Total Sugars	11g	-
Protein	5g	9%
Vitamin C	2mg	2%
Calcium	52mg	4%
Iron	1mg	7%
Potassium	145mg	3%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Linzer Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional Linzertorte, transforming this classic Austrian dessert into an easier-to-make bar format. They feature a nutty, buttery dough filled with sweet apricot preserves and topped with a beautiful lattice crust. These bars are a wonderful treat, offering the same flavors and textures as their cut-out cookie cousins but with less effort involved. Let's dive into the fascinating story and regional variations surrounding this delectable dessert.

Origin Story

The Linzer Cookie is a modern take on the centuries-old Linzertorte, which traces its origins back to the city of Linz, Austria, where it was first mentioned in the 17th century. Traditionally, a Linzertorte is a pastry filled with red fruit preserves, usually raspberry or currant, and has a lattice design on top. Over time, the recipe spread throughout Central Europe, and in the 19th century, it became synonymous with Austrian pastry culture.

Regional Variations

While Linzertorte is most closely associated with Austria, the dessert has spread throughout Europe, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. In Germany, for instance, its common to use almonds or hazelnuts in the dough, while in other parts of Europe, walnuts may be favored. Linzer Cookie Bars, as a simplified version of the torte, are popular in many European countries, but they are particularly favored in Austria and southern Germany. These bars maintain the classic flavor profile but are much more accessible for everyday baking.

Distinguishing Features

The Linzer Cookie Bars differ from other similar desserts in both form and flavor. While many fruit-filled bars, such as jam bars or fruit crumbles, use a crumbly topping, the Linzer bars distinguish themselves with a carefully arranged lattice crust. This feature is a nod to the traditional Linzertorte, which has a signature woven lattice pattern on top. The inclusion of ground almonds in the dough also sets these apart from other fruit-filled desserts, giving them a rich, nutty texture.

Where Are They Typically Served?

Linzer Cookie Bars are a popular treat during the holiday season in Austria and Germany, where they are often served at Christmas time alongside other traditional sweets. However, their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion, from afternoon tea to casual family gatherings. Their rich flavor and elegant appearance also make them an excellent choice for special events or as a gift for food-loving friends and family.

Interesting Facts

• The name "Linzer" comes from the city of Linz in Austria, where the Linzertorte was first created. The town even has a dedicated museum for its famous pastry.
• Linzer Cookie Bars can be made with a variety of fruit preserves, such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot. The choice of fruit can significantly alter the flavor profile of the bars, though apricot is the most traditional choice.
• In some variations of Linzertorte and cookie bars, the dough is flavored with spices like cinnamon and cloves, adding a warm, aromatic depth to the sweet fruit filling.
• While the original Linzertorte is a tart-like dessert, Linzer Cookie Bars provide the same delicious flavors in a more portable and easy-to-make form, making them a popular option for picnics and parties.

Whether youre baking them for a festive gathering or enjoying them as an everyday treat, these Linzer Cookie Bars are sure to impress with their nutty, fruity goodness and rich cultural heritage. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the deliciousness of this Austrian classic with a modern twist!

FAQ about Linzer Cookie Bars Recipe

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