Kolaczki Delight

Kolaczki Delight are delightful Polish pastries with a buttery, cream cheese dough and a sweet fruit preserve filling. These tender, pocket-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of fruity flavor and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Ideal for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup fruit preserves (your choice)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Cut the dough into squares (about 3 inches).
8. Place a teaspoon of fruit preserves in the center of each square.
9. Fold the corners of each square towards the center, pinching to seal.
10. Place the kolaczki on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 servings
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: 150 kcal per serving

Variations:

• Fruit Preserves: Use different types of fruit preserves like apricot, raspberry, or blueberry for varied flavors.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth and depth.
• Nutty Touch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled kolaczki for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate Filling: Try filling with chocolate ganache or a chocolate-hazelnut spread for a rich twist.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store Kolaczki Delight in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked kolaczki in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

10 FAQs:

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly. The pastries may be a bit less rich.

2. How do I prevent the kolaczki from opening while baking?

Ensure the corners are well-pinched and sealed before baking. You can also lightly press the edges with a fork to secure them.

3. Can I use homemade fruit preserves?

Absolutely! Homemade fruit preserves work wonderfully and can add a personal touch to the kolaczki.

4. How do I make the dough easier to handle?

Chill the dough well before rolling it out, as it makes it firmer and easier to work with.

5. Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour is ideal, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend if needed. The texture might vary slightly.

6. What can I use instead of fruit preserves?

You can use fruit jams, curds, or even chocolate spreads as alternative fillings.

7. How can I make these kolaczki more festive?

Decorate with colored sugar, edible glitter, or a light glaze to make them more festive for special occasions.

8. Can I use a cookie cutter instead of cutting squares?

Yes, using a cookie cutter can create fun shapes, but be sure the shapes are large enough to hold the filling.

9. How do I ensure the kolaczki stay crisp?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid layering them directly on top of each other. Adding a paper towel in the container can help absorb excess moisture.

10. Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before rolling and baking.

Conclusion:

Kolaczki Delight are an irresistible treat that combines a tender, buttery dough with sweet fruit preserves, making them perfect for any occasion. Their easy preparation and delightful flavor ensure they’ll be a hit whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with your coffee. These pastries are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!

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