Linzele (or Linzette) are delightful little Linzer Balls, inspired by the famous Linzer Torte, a traditional Austrian pastry.
These cookies feature a tender, crumbly texture, thanks to a rich blend of flour, butter, sugar, and ground almonds, enhanced by the warm flavours of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
Each hand-shaped ball hides a sweet surprise at its centre—a dollop of fruity jam, often apricot, plum, blackberry, or raspberry.
Simple yet elegant, these cookies are a treat for the taste buds and a tribute to Austria’s rich baking traditions.
Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, the Linzele embody the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Stored in a tin, they only get better over time as their flavours deepen, making them even more delicious a few days after baking.
Linzele (or Linzette): the Recipe
I’ve personally tested this recipe, and the photos are my own—proof that these little Linzele are as delightful to look at as they are to eat!
Share them with loved ones or enjoy them with a warm drink during the holiday festivities.
Ingredients
- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 100 g (7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg, beaten
- 80 g (3/4 cup) ground almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon water
- 1 small jar of jam (about 10 oz) – try apricot, plum, blackberry, or raspberry
Instructions
For the Dough:
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, sugar, spices (cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg), and ground almonds.
2. Cut the softened butter into cubes and work it into the dry mixture until it forms a sandy texture.
3. Add the beaten egg and knead the dough until it forms a smooth ball. If the dough feels too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water to adjust the consistency.
4. Wrap the dough in aluminium foil or plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours.
To Shape the Cookies:
5. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough with a rolling pin.
6. Break off small portions of the dough to form small balls with your hands.
7. Use your finger or the back of a thimble to create a small indentation in the centre of each ball.
8. Fill the indentation with a small amount of your chosen jam (apricot, plum, blackberry, or raspberry).
To Bake:
9. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
11. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, checking after 10 minutes. Remove the cookies from the oven when they are golden and crisp.
To Store:
12. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
13. Store them in an airtight tin. These cookies develop even more flavour after a few days, making them an ideal treat for the holiday season.
Final Words about Linzele (or Linzette)
Linzele are not only an Austrian festive treat but also a cherished tradition in Alsace, where these cookies are a staple during the holiday season.
Their delicate, crumbly texture and the burst of fruity sweetness from the jam make them irresistible, whether enjoyed with a warm drink or shared with loved ones around the Christmas table.
As they rest in a tin, their flavours deepen, embodying the warmth and joy of the holidays.
Find out more!
Check out all our Christmas recipes on the blog!
Learn more about the traditions of Alsatian Christmas Cookies
Read it in French! More French Christmas traditions and celebrations
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