Get ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of freshly baked Hamantaschen cookies! These triangular pastries are a traditional treat enjoyed during the Jewish holiday of Purim, but they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a new recipe or a beginner eager to try your hand at baking, this Hamantaschen recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Your favorite filling (such as fruit preserves, chocolate spread, or poppy seed filling)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
2. Add the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the well. Using a fork or pastry cutter, mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass, cut out circles of dough.
6. Place a small spoonful of your favorite filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
7. To shape the Hamantaschen, fold the edges of the dough circle towards the center to create a triangular shape, leaving the filling slightly exposed in the center.
8. Pinch the corners firmly to seal the edges of the dough together. Make sure the seams are secure to prevent the filling from oozing out while baking.
9. Place the filled and shaped Hamantaschen onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
10. Bake the Hamantaschen in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
11. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Serve your freshly baked Hamantaschen as a sweet treat for Purim celebrations, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a delicious homemade cookie.
These delightful Hamantaschen cookies are a joy to make and share with loved ones. The buttery dough pairs perfectly with a variety of sweet fillings, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert. Enjoy the process of baking these traditional treats and savor the delicious results with those you care about. Happy baking!
