Linzer Cookies

Linzer Cookies

1 1/4 cups butter, softened 

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 

1/2 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

1/4 cup seedless raspberry jam

Powdered sugar

Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer; gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

Combine flour and next 4 ingredients; gradually add to butter mixture, beating just until blended.

Divide dough into 2 equal portions. Cover and chill 1 hour.

Roll each portion to a 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface; cut circle shape,Cut centers out of half of cookies with a 1 1/2-inch shaped cutter. Place all cut outs on lightly greased baking sheets. Or follow instructions on your Linzer cookie cutter kit. 

Bake at 325° for 15 minutes; cool on wire racks. Spread solid cookies with jam; sprinkle remaining stars with powdered sugar. Top each solid cookie with cut out top.