Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange
For Assembly
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Any flavor of jam (for filling)
Instructions
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, stir together all-purpose flour, almond flour, sea salt, and optional cinnamon until evenly combined for a flavorful base.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a stand mixer or large bowl using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract, optional almond extract, egg, and citrus zest, then beat on low speed for 30 seconds until fully incorporated.
- Add in the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed for about 1 minute, stopping to scrape down the sides as necessary until a uniform dough forms.
- Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a 1-inch thick disk and wrap tightly with beeswrap or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to firm up the dough and enhance flavor.
- Prep the oven and baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut half the cookies as solid shapes and the other half with cut-out windows. Arrange cookies on the baking sheet. If dough feels too soft, chill the cookie sheet in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Adjust baking time for different sizes or shapes and watch closely to avoid overbaking.
- Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature for best texture.
- Assemble the cookies: Dust the cut-out window cookies with powdered sugar using a fine mesh strainer. Spread a dollop of jam on a solid cookie and gently sandwich with a window cookie on top. Repeat until all cookies are assembled and ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Almond flour adds a nutty flavor and tender crumb but can be omitted for a more traditional texture.
- Chilling the dough is essential for easier rolling and clean cookie shapes.
- Use your favorite jam — raspberry, apricot, or strawberry all work beautifully.
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For more festive cookies, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian