Fudge Gingerbread Linzer Cookies Recipe

These Fudge Gingerbread Linzer Cookies are the perfect blend of festive flavors and delightful textures. Imagine biting into a rich chocolate fudge cookie that’s spiced with warm gingerbread spices, and then discovering a sweet, creamy filling tucked inside. They’re not just cookies; they’re a holiday treat that adds joy to any celebration.

With each bite, you’ll experience the soft, chewy texture of the gingerbread cookie paired with a luscious fudge filling that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress everyone around you.

Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these cookies also make a thoughtful homemade gift. Plus, the festive cut-out shape adds a charming touch that makes them visually appealing.

Festive Flavor Fusion

Fudge Gingerbread Linzer Cookies stand as a delightful testament to the spirit of the holiday season. Combining the warmth of gingerbread spices with the rich allure of chocolate fudge, these cookies offer a unique taste experience that is both sweet and slightly spicy.

The interplay of textures is remarkable, with each bite revealing a soft, chewy cookie enveloping a luscious fudge filling. This delightful combination makes them not just a treat, but a memorable holiday indulgence that can elevate any gathering.

Visual Appeal and Presentation

These cookies are visually enchanting, often presented with festive decorations that enhance their charm. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives them a snowy appearance reminiscent of winter, making them even more inviting.

Surrounded by decorations such as holly leaves and bright red ribbons, they create an atmosphere filled with warmth and celebration. Their unique cut-out shapes allow the fudge filling to peek through, enticing anyone who lays eyes on them.

Creating the Perfect Dough

The foundation of these cookies begins with a well-prepared dough. A careful mix of all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and an array of spices is essential for achieving that classic gingerbread flavor. The inclusion of unsalted butter and sugars ensures a rich and creamy texture.

Chilling the dough is a crucial step, as it allows for easier handling during the rolling and cutting process. This moment of patience pays off, leading to cookies that maintain their shape while baking.

Assembly of Joy

As you roll out the dough, the excitement builds. The use of cookie cutters to create lovely shapes adds a personal touch, and layering the fudge filling between the cut-out cookies makes for a delightful surprise.

Each cookie is lovingly crafted, with the fudge filling nestled in the center and topped with another cookie piece. This careful assembly is what transforms them into a true holiday delight, making every bite an experience in confectionery joy.

Baking to Perfection

Once assembled, these cookies are ready for the oven. Baking them at just the right temperature ensures they are perfectly set—firm yet soft enough to melt in your mouth. The aroma that fills the kitchen is irresistible, a true hallmark of holiday baking.

After cooling, a final dusting of powdered sugar not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds a touch of sweetness to each cookie, making them even more delightful.

Sharing the Holiday Spirit

Fudge Gingerbread Linzer Cookies are more than just a festive treat; they are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re presenting them at a holiday gathering or packaging them as thoughtful gifts, their charm and flavor are sure to impress.

These cookies embody the essence of the season—joy, warmth, and the pleasure of sharing delicious moments with loved ones. Their presence on the dessert table is a celebration of holiday spirit, inviting everyone to indulge in their delightful flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fudge filling (store-bought or homemade)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients until just combined.
2. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8 inch thick on a floured surface. Cut out shapes using a cookie cutter. Place half of the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Add Filling: Spoon a small amount of fudge filling onto the center of each cookie on the baking sheet. Cut out shapes from the other half of the cookies to create a window for the filling, and place them on top of the filled cookies.
5. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Finish: Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: 150 kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 20g