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:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into squares (about 3 inches).
- Place a teaspoon of fruit preserves in the center of each square.
- Fold the corners of each square towards the center, pinching to seal.
- Place the kolaczki on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- 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!
PrintKolaczki Delight
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
Kolaczki Delight are delightful Polish pastries with a tender, buttery dough filled with sweet fruit preserves. These charming treats are perfect for any occasion, whether as a special dessert or a delightful snack with tea.
Notes
- Use a variety of fruit preserves to add different flavors to the kolaczki.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes