Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam is a delightful treat that brings a touch of sweetness and charm to any gathering. These buttery cookies, with their fruity center, are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a sight to behold. The vibrant pink hue of the cookies contrasts beautifully with the rich red currant jam, making them perfect for celebrations or just a cozy afternoon snack. Originating from Linz, Austria, these cookies have become a favorite around the world for their simple yet satisfying flavors.
What You’ll Need for Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam
To create these adorable heart-shaped cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 148 g raspberry pudding powder (about 5.2 oz)
- 300 g fine flour (about 10.6 oz)
- 150 g powdered sugar (about 5.3 oz)
- 180 g soft margarine or butter (about 6.3 oz)
- 3 g baking powder (about 0.1 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- Red currant jam (to taste)
How to Make Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, raspberry pudding powder, and powdered sugar together. Sift the mixture to avoid any lumps.
- Add the baking powder and stir well to combine all the dry ingredients.
- Incorporate the softened margarine (or butter) and the eggs, mixing until you achieve a smooth dough. If needed, add a little extra flour to get the right consistency.
- Wrap the dough in a bag and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to work with.
- Roll out the dough to a thickness of approximately 0.4 cm (about 0.16 inches). Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out hearts.
- Place the heart cookies on a lined baking tray and use a smaller heart cutter to cut out the center of half of the cookies to create a window effect.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 5-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them!
- Once cooled, spread red currant jam on the whole heart cookies and top with the heart-shaped cookies that have the cut-out centers.
- Allow to set for about an hour and then feel free to decorate as you like.
The Best Way to Serve It
These gorgeous Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam make for an eye-catching dessert on any table. Serve them dusted with a little extra powdered sugar for a sweet touch, or add a dollop of whipped cream alongside for a tasty contrast. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They’re also perfect as gifts when neatly packaged in a lovely box!
Expert Tips for Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and enhances the flavor.
- Mix & Match Jams: Feel free to use different flavors of jam! Apricot, raspberry, or even a tart cherry jam can provide a delicious twist.
- Decorate Creatively: After the jam has set, add a sprinkle of edible glitter or colorful sprinkles for a festive look.
Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pudding mix for this recipe?
A: Yes, using store-bought raspberry pudding mix works perfectly for this recipe!
Q: How should I store the cookies?
A: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before rolling it out to shape the cookies.
Now, it’s time for you to try making these delightful Hearts of Linz Pink with Red Currant Jam. They are sure to bring smiles and sweetness to your day! Happy baking!