1-Gathering and Mixing the Dough: First, gather and measure all ingredients accurately to set yourself up for smooth preparation. Cream the 200 grams of softened butter and 150 grams of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy this step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Add the 2 egg yolks and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating lightly to incorporate without overmixing.

2-Gathering and Mixing the Dough: Gradually add the 300 grams of all-purpose flour, 100 grams of almond meal, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead gently and divide the dough into two balls for easier handling. For a fun twist, you can optionally add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon here to introduce a subtle spice that complements the holidays.

3-Shaping, Chilling, and Baking: Roll each dough ball between baking paper to a 2-3 mm thickness, then chill for 1-2 hours this chilling tip improves handling and helps cookies keep their shape during baking. Cut out an even number of cookies using a round cutter, and for the tops, cut small shapes from the center of half of them to create that classic Snowman Linzer look.

4-Shaping, Chilling, and Baking: Chill the shaped cookies for at least another hour. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) without the fan for even baking; note that you may need to adjust if using a fan-forced oven. Bake the cookies on a preheated metal tray for 8-10 minutes until the edges begin to color while keeping the cookies pale. Cool them on a wire rack before the final assembly.

5-Assembling and Variations: Once cooled, dust the cookie tops with powdered sugar for that snowy effect. Spread your chosen jam on the bottom cookies, then sandwich them together with the cutout tops. For Snowman variations, use themed cookie cutters like snowmen or Christmas trees, along with small round cutters for the centers, turning your baking into a festive activity.

6-Assembling and Variations: Re-roll any scraps between baking paper and chill again if needed, planning for the full 2-3 hours process prepping the dough the night before can make things even easier. Cookies are crisp when fresh but soften as the jam absorbs moisture, so enjoy them soon after making. For dietary adaptations, incorporate substitutions at each stage, like using plant-based butter for vegan options.