Linzer Torte

If you’ve had Linzer tarts and love them, despite the fact that they are rather complicated to make, then you know they are one of the tastiest and best looking cookies you can make. The hard work is always worth it. If you’re ready to take things up a notch, why not try your hand at this Linzer torte? It’s a rich and tasty pie which just happens to be the traditional version of the classic cookie.

And yes, there is a fair amount of hands-on work here. But as long as you follow the recipe carefully, you will be able to make this torte even if you aren’t  a master baker. It is sure to impress and easy to enjoy. So, let’s get baking!

Linzer Torte Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: The all-purpose flour is the heart of this recipe. The fresher the flour, the better the torte will come out.
• Ground hazelnuts: This Linzer torte calls for an abundance of hazelnuts. Make sure they are ground evenly so they bake well and so the consistency is correct.
• Sugar: Of course, the white sugar adds plenty of sweetness.
• Brown sugar: As always when cooking with brown sugar, make sure to pack it down as you measure it. You need 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar.
• Ground cinnamon: Cinnamon is essential for this torte to come out well. Head to the store before you get cooking if you don’t have any on hand.
• Ground clove: Ground clove is a potent spice so just use a dash. The entire flavor profile will be impacted if you add too much.
• Butter: Take the butter out of the fridge shortly before you are going to use it so will be softer and easier to cut it into cubes.
• Eggs: The eggs should be lightly beaten.
• Grated lemon zest: Lemon zest is wildly flavorful. Don’t use too much because that can negatively affect the flavor.
• Raspberry jam: Seedless raspberry jam is necessity for a Linzer torte, just like it is with a Linzer tart.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Yes, a dusting of confectioners sugar is technically optional. Althoiugh, we recommend you don’t skip it!

Directions

Step 1: Form the dough

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In a large bowl, combine the flour, hazelnuts, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and ground cloves. Then, cut in the cubes of butter and work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add the eggs and lemon zest, stirring until the blend forms into a ball.

Step 2: Chill the dough

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Divide this ball into fourths and cover. Refrigerate them for three to four hours or until chilled.

Step 3: Begin to form the torte

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Remove two portions of dough from the refrigerator and press each into an ungreased 9-inch fluted tart pan with a removable bottom. Spread 2/3 cup of jam over each.

Step 3: Form the lattice design

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Between two sheets of lightly floured wax paper, roll one portion of the remaining dough into a 10×6-inch rectangle. Cut six 1-inch wide strips and arrange these in a lattice design over the jam. Then, repeat the process with remaining dough (return dough to the refrigerator if needed).

Step 4: Bake the tortes

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Bake the torte at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes or until the jam is bubbly and the crust is browned. Cool them completely andthen dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

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Linzer Torte Variations

• Use a different jam: While raspberry jam is of course the classic with Linzer tarts (and tortes), you can try a different jam as well. A cranberry raspberry blend is a great choice. Apricot jam is also a delicious substitute.
• Swap the clove for nutmeg: To make a treat with a winter holiday flavor profile, swap out the clove and add a few dashes of nutmeg.
• Skip the lemon zest: the one ingredient in here that can be a bit divisive is the lemon zest. Some people just don’t like its flavor so leave it out if you want.

How to Store Linzer Torte

Left over portions of this torte can be stored in airtight bags, plastic wrap or containers at room temperature for two or three days and in the fridge for five or six.

Can you freeze Linzer torte?

Yes, you can save portions of this torte in airtight packaging in the freezer for one to two months.

Linzer Torte Tips

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Why is my dough so crumbly?

Make sure that the butter is cut into small cubes and mixed thoroughly into the dry ingredients. Also ensure the egg spreads throughout the dough as well.

What other jams can I try?

Really, you can try anything you want. From black courant to pineapple and fig jam. If you like a certain jam’s flavor, you’ll love it in this torte.

What to serve with Linzer torte?

The perfect pairing is a simple cup of coffee, hot tea or hot cocoa. This torte has enough flavor going on already that it need not be served with ice cream or any other sweet side.