Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a scrumptious dessert that’s a hit at festive occasions and family gatherings, look no further than Hamantaschen. These delightful, triangular pastries are not only a feast for the eyes, but also a treat for the taste buds. Filled with sweetened fruit preserves or poppy seeds, Hamantaschen are perfect for celebrating Purim or just because! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Simple yet delicious, Hamantaschen are perfect for both beginner and expert bakers.
- The versatile filling options allow you to customize them to your taste.
- They make for a beautiful and festive addition to any dessert table.
- These pastries have a buttery, flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
- Hamantaschen are a delightful way to introduce a traditional treat to new friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- Your choice of fruit preserves or poppy seed filling
Directions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and orange juice until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Fill and Shape
Spoon a teaspoon of your chosen filling into the center of each circle. Fold up the edges to form a triangle, pinching the corners to seal.
Bake
Bake the Hamantaschen for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Chill the dough well to make it easier to handle and roll. For more tips on dough handling, check out this guide.
- Ensure that the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Experiment with different fillings like apricot, prune, or chocolate for variety.
Variations
- Chocolate Hamantaschen: Swap fruit preserves for a chocolate spread.
- Lemon Poppy Seed: Use lemon curd and poppy seeds for a tart twist.
- Nutella Delight: Fill with Nutella for a rich, hazelnut flavor.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- 3-inch round cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
Storage Instructions
Store Hamantaschen in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
Pair these delightful pastries with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack. They also complement a glass of dessert wine beautifully.
Pro Tips
- To prevent sticking, flour your rolling pin and surface generously. For more on rolling techniques, visit Sally’s Baking Addiction.
- Chill the cookies after shaping and before baking to maintain their shape.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or cardamom in the dough for added flavor.
FAQ
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using.
- What type of fillings work best? Thick fruit preserves or poppy seed filling work well to prevent leaking.
- Can I use whole wheat flour? You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.