There’s something incredibly rewarding about transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering treat, especially when those treats happen to be Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies. The moment you begin to mix the rich cocoa and almond flours, a warm, sweet scent starts to fill your kitchen, and that’s just the beginning. I discovered this delightful cookie recipe after a particularly long week—an escape into the world of baking became the perfect remedy to lift my spirits.
As I rolled out the delicate dough, I couldn’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where sweets brought everyone together. These cookies are not just easy to make; they hold the promise of cozy moments spent savoring something truly special. With their warm chocolate flavor and delightful salted caramel filling, every bite is a reminder of why homemade is always better than fast food. They strike a perfect balance, both impressing guests and making you feel like a culinary genius in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create something unforgettable!
Why are Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies a must-try?
Deliciously Decadent: These cookies offer a rich chocolate base that pairs perfectly with gooey salted caramel, making each bite an indulgent pleasure.
Fun to Make: You’ll love the creative process of rolling and cutting the dough—perfect for involving kids or hosting a baking day with friends.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for any occasion, these cookies will steal the show at parties or be a comforting treat during cozy evenings at home.
Crowd Favorite: Who can resist a sweet treat with a surprise caramel center? Guaranteed to impress family and friends alike!
For more fun baking ideas, check out our section on baking with kids.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – 300 g, for the perfect structure in your cookies.
• Almond flour – 100 g, adds a nutty flavor and texture that complements the cocoa.
• Cocoa powder – 80 g, brings rich chocolate goodness to the cookie base.
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon, to give the cookies a lovely lift.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon, enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• Unsalted butter – 230 g, softened for easy mixing and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar – 135 g, sweetens the dough and contributes to its overall texture.
• Large eggs – 2, at room temperature to help achieve a well-blended dough.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, adds warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
For the Salted Caramel
• Granulated sugar – 150 g, for creating the luscious caramel.
• Heavy cream – 150 g, adds richness and creaminess to the caramel.
• Unsalted butter – 60 g, cubed and at room temperature for a smooth finish.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon, highlights the sweetness of the caramel and complements the chocolate.
For Dusting
• Cocoa powder or powdered sugar – 20 g, for a sweet finishing touch on top of your cookies.
Dive into the kitchen and get ready to create these irresistible Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies!
How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies
-
Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir together all-purpose flour, almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This will create a flavorful base for your cookies—set aside to keep those flavors mingling.
-
Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter using an electric hand mixer until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and continue to cream until fluffy, then mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
-
Combine Dough Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mix, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to use a spatula to finish mixing it.
-
Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto plastic wrap and press it together gently. Cut the dough in half and shape each into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight—this helps the flavors develop and makes it easier to roll out.
-
Make the Salted Caramel: In a small pot, add the granulated sugar and heat over medium until it liquefies, about 10 minutes. Be patient—watch as it turns into a lovely light amber color!
-
Incorporate the Cream: Once the sugar reaches that beautiful color, carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring. If the sugar hardens, keep stirring on low-medium heat until it melts again, creating a smooth mixture.
-
Finish the Caramel: Once bubbling subsides, remove from heat and stir in the butter one cube at a time, then add the salt to bring out that delightful caramel flavor. Transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool.
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Get excited—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
-
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of cookie dough to about ⅛” thick. It should be soft and pliable but firm enough to hold its shape!
-
Cut Out Cookies: Use a 3″ scalloped round cookie cutter to cut out rounds from the dough. Carefully transfer them to the lined baking sheet, making sure they have some space between them.
-
Create the Cookie Tops: With a 1″ scalloped cookie cutter, cut out the middle of each round. Bake the top cookies for about 9 minutes, allowing them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
-
Bake the Bottoms: Roll out the second disc of dough and cut out rounds for the bottom cookies. Bake for about 10 minutes, then let them cool the same way as the tops.
-
Dust with Cocoa or Sugar: Once cooled, dust the tops of the cookies with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for that beautiful finishing touch!
-
Assemble the Cookies: If the salted caramel has hardened, warm it in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Use a piping bag to pipe a dollop onto each bottom cookie, then gently sandwich with a top cookie.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor burst!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies?
To create a delightful gathering, pair your cookies with delectable accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors and textures.
- Coffee or Espresso: The deep flavors of coffee pair beautifully with chocolate, balancing sweetness and enhancing every bite.
- Milkshake: A creamy chocolate or vanilla milkshake adds a fun, indulgent touch that takes you back to childhood treats.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries offer a bright, tangy contrast to the richness of the cookies, refreshing your palate.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of cool, creamy vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle warm ganache over your Linzer cookies for an extra layer of decadence and a truly indulgent treat.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the cocoa and caramel, creating a cozy pairing perfect for an afternoon snack.
Imagine each bite of these sumptuous cookies alongside a comforting beverage or light, refreshing fruit, making every occasion feel special!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps, wrap the shaped discs tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The salted caramel can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough and cut your cookies, then bake as directed. This method ensures that you’ll enjoy fresh, delicious cookies without the last-minute rush, making your baking experience just as delightful as the treats themselves!
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies
Chill the Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, keeping their shape intact.
Watch the Caramel: When making the salted caramel, keep a close eye on the sugar. Even a moment of distraction can lead to burnt caramel!
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, make sure the butter, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, uniform dough and caramel.
Even Rolling: Roll the dough to a consistent thickness of about ⅛”. Uneven dough can lead to uneven baking times and texture.
Creative Cutouts: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cookie shapes! Your Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies will still taste amazing, no matter the form.
Storing Tips: Once assembled, these cookies are best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain the caramel’s gooey texture.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their wonderful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to enjoy them over a longer period, store them in the fridge for up to a week. This will keep the caramel gooey and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled cookies! Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To refresh them after freezing, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy at room temperature, or warm in the microwave for about 15 seconds before serving.
Salted Caramel Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you explore these delicious twists!
-
Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with all-purpose flour for a nut-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy these cookies.
-
Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel.
-
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose and almond flours for a gluten-free blend, adapting your cookies without sacrificing taste.
-
Chocolate Lovers: Use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor that delivers a more intense experience.
-
Fruity Surprise: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped dried cherries or cranberries into the dough for a fruity twist that complements the chocolate and caramel.
-
Caramel Variations: Try using a flavored caramel, like vanilla or sea salt caramel, for an added layer of complexity to your cookie.
-
Minty Freshness: Mix in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing twist that pairs well with chocolate and caramel.
-
Crunchy Texture: Fold in ½ cup of crushed pretzels for a delightful crunch and a sweet-salty contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cocoa powder for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting cocoa powder, go for Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer flavor and darker color. It’s treated with alkaline to balance acidity, which makes it perfect for baked goods. Look for a brand that’s unsweetened and pure cocoa for the best results.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their life, they can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. This method helps maintain the delicious gooeyness of the salted caramel.
Can I freeze my Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, simply place the assembled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight, or pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds for a quick refresh!
What should I do if my caramel hardens while making it?
Very! If your caramel hardens when you add the cream, don’t panic. Just keep stirring on low to medium heat. It will melt again as the heat increases. If it still seems stubborn, let it sit for a moment, then reduce the heat before trying again. Remember, patience is key in making the perfect caramel!
Are there any dietary considerations for allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe contains wheat, tree nuts (from almond flour), and dairy. If baking for someone with allergies, consider substituting almond flour with oat flour or all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free version, you could use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives. Always check labels to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
Can I use other fillings besides salted caramel?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or a chocolate ganache. Each one will give your cookies a unique twist, and you just might find a new favorite combination!
Irresistible Salted Caramel Chocolate Linzer Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, stir together all-purpose flour, almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and cream until fluffy, then mix in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mix, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto plastic wrap, shape into discs, wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
- In a small pot, add the granulated sugar and heat until it liquefies, about 10 minutes.
- Once the sugar is light amber, carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring until smooth.
- Once bubbling subsides, remove from heat, stirring in butter and salt.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out one disc of dough to about ⅛" thick.
- Use a 3" scalloped round cookie cutter to cut out rounds and place on the lined baking sheet.
- With a 1" scalloped cookie cutter, cut out the middle of each round and bake for about 9 minutes.
- Roll out the second disc and cut out rounds for bottom cookies, baking for about 10 minutes.
- Dust cooled cookies with cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
- If the caramel has hardened, warm in the microwave, then pipe a dollop onto each bottom cookie and sandwich with a top cookie.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top.