Linzer Cake

Linzer cake is a refined homemade dessert, perfect for enjoying in the cold season. The enticing flavors of nuts and fruit jam combine harmoniously, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. This simple and quick recipe will transform you into a master baker and delight the taste buds of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients:
- 250 g of flour
- 100 g of sugar
- 125 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 100 g of ground nuts (or almonds, for a different flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional, for a more complex flavor)
- 200 g of jam (raspberry or apricot, depending on preferences)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, ground nuts, baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix the dry ingredients well to ensure they are evenly distributed. Add the diced butter and rub with your fingers until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Add the egg and vanilla essence, mixing with a spatula or your hands until the dough is homogeneous.

Step 2: Resting the dough
Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps firm up the butter, making it easier to roll out the dough.

Step 3: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 5 mm thick. Using a round cutter, cut circles for the base of the cake. From half of the circles, cut a small shape (for example, a heart or a circle) in the middle to create a 'window' effect.

Step 4: Assembling
Place the whole circles on the prepared tray, add a tablespoon of jam on each, then cover with the perforated circles. Press gently to secure them. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cake turns golden.

Step 5: Decorating
Allow the cake to cool completely. Dust powdered sugar over the Linzer cake to give it an elegant and appetizing appearance.

Serving suggestions: Serve the Linzer cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold. This cake is perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making it an elegant dessert for any occasion.

Possible variations: Experiment with different types of jam, such as strawberries or mixed berries, to add a personalized touch. You can also substitute the nuts with almonds or pistachios for a different flavor.

The Linzer cake is not only a quick dessert but also a simple recipe that will bring a touch of joy to cold winter days. Start cooking and let yourself be inspired by the flavors of this traditional cake!