Polish Kolaczki Cookies Recipe – Delicious Apricot Filled Treats

If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Polish treat, look no further than Kolaczki cookies! These delicate, apricot-filled pastries are a beloved dessert in Polish households, often enjoyed during the holidays or special gatherings. With a buttery, flaky dough and a sweet jam filling, Kolaczki cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. This simple, step-by-step recipe will guide you through making these mouthwatering cookies from scratch, so you can bring a piece of Polish tradition into your home.

History of Kolaczki Cookies:
Kolaczki are traditional Polish pastries typically enjoyed during holidays or family gatherings. These cookies are known for their delicate texture and flavorful fruit fillings. The origin of Kolaczki dates back to Eastern Europe, where they were often made with leftover dough and filled with whatever jams or fruit preserves were available. They have become a beloved dessert in Polish-American communities.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)
• 1 cup apricot jam (or other jam varieties such as raspberry or strawberry)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Tip: For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of apricot and raspberry jam.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine softened cream cheese and butter. Mix on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the flour, mixing until fully incorporated. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
2. Chill the Dough:
   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make it easier to handle and roll out.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   After chilling, divide the dough into quarters. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one quarter of the dough at a time to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or a pastry cutter to cut the dough into 1 1/2-inch squares.
4. Add the Jam:
   Place a small spoonful (about 1/2 teaspoon) of apricot jam in the center of each square.
5. Shape the Cookies:
   Fold opposite corners of each square toward the center, pinching the edges together gently. Dab a tiny amount of water on the seam to help them stick together during baking.
6. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the shaped cookies on it. Bake for 13 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Dust:
   Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a delicate finish.
8. Store:
   Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Practical Tips & Variations

• Flour Substitute: You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Jam Varieties: While apricot is traditional, you can experiment with other jam flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or even mixed berry for different tastes.
• Dough Texture: If the dough feels too soft after chilling, work in a bit more flour until it’s easier to roll.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storage: Store Kolaczki cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. To freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to warm through, then dust with powdered sugar again.

Meal Pairing Suggestions

Kolaczki cookies pair wonderfully with a warm beverage, such as:

• A hot cup of tea (especially chamomile or green tea).
• A fresh brewed coffee, which balances the sweetness of the jam filling.
• Serve them with a fruit salad or yogurt parfait for a balanced dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Kolaczki dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap.

Q: Can I use a different filling than jam?
A: Absolutely! You can try sweetened cream cheese, Nutella, or even a mixture of dried fruits like raisins or figs for a unique twist.

Q: Are Kolaczki cookies difficult to make?
A: Kolaczki cookies are relatively easy to make, but the dough requires chilling, and shaping the cookies does take a little patience. But the result is worth it!

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