Hamantaschen

There’s something magical about the aroma that fills the kitchen when I’m making Hamantaschen. These delightful pastries have been a part of my family’s tradition for as long as I can remember, and each time I roll out the dough, it brings back fond memories of celebrations and family gatherings. I remember the first time I baked them with my grandmother; we filled them with her homemade jam, and the joy on her face was priceless. Now, every bite of these buttery cookies, shaped like little triangles, transports me back to those cherished moments. The unique combination of flavors and textures in Hamantaschen is simply irresistible, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s Purim or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies always bring a smile. As I prepare them, I can’t help but feel connected to generations of bakers who have shared this same experience. The contrasts of the fluffy dough and the sweet fillings create a symphony of deliciousness that I’m excited to share with you.

Ingredients Overview for Hamantaschen

When it comes to the ingredients for Hamantaschen, each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect pastry. The combination of buttery dough and sweet fillings is what makes these cookies truly special. The key players are unsalted butter, which provides richness, and all-purpose flour, creating a tender texture. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while poppy seeds and assorted jams offer delightful fillings that elevate every bite. The balance of flavors and textures in these ingredients ensures that every Hamantaschen is a treat to savor.

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature: This rich ingredient is essential for creating a tender and flaky dough.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar: It sweetens the dough perfectly, making every bite delightful.
• 1 large egg, room temperature: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide moisture.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: This brightens the flavor of the dough, adding a lovely citrus note.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: It enhances the overall sweetness with its warm flavor.
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, creating the right texture for the Hamantaschen.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 2-3 tablespoons water, if needed: Used to moisten the dough if it’s too dry.
• Assorted jams, if desired: These are used as fillings; choose your favorites for variety.
• ½ cup poppy seeds: Another filling option that adds a unique flavor and texture.
• 4 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Used for making a rich filling, especially with poppy seeds.

The Method for Hamantaschen

Cooking Hamantaschen is an enjoyable and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to create your delightful pastries. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools, and you’ll be on your way to baking success.

1. In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for about 1 to 2 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cookie.
2. Add the large egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is fully combined. You’ll notice the mixture takes on a smoother consistency, and the aroma will start to fill your kitchen.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Mix again for 10 to 20 seconds to combine evenly.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the bowl. Mix until just barely combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
5. Once the flour is incorporated, use your hands to press the dough together. If the dough feels too dry, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together without becoming sticky. The goal is to achieve a cohesive dough that holds its shape.
6. Form the dough into a disk and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out later.
7. While the dough chills, prepare the poppy seed filling. Use a spice grinder or coffee grinder to grind the poppy seeds into a fine powder. Transfer to a medium bowl, then add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until fully combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
8. Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to approximately 1/8 inch thick. Let the dough sit for a few minutes if it’s too stiff; this will help make rolling easier.
9. Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles from the dough. Carefully transfer these rounds to parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each.
10. Place about 1 teaspoon of your chosen filling, either poppy seed or jam, in the center of each round. To form the Hamantaschen, fold up the sides of the dough to create a triangle shape around the filling, pinching the corners together firmly to prevent leaking while baking. If needed, moisten the corners with a little water or beaten egg to help seal them.
11. Gather any remaining dough and repeat the cutting and filling process. Remember that the more the dough is rolled out, the tougher the cookies may become, so try to work efficiently.
12. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges. Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
13. While they cool, you can prepare more filling if needed or simply enjoy the sweet aroma of your freshly baked Hamantaschen.

Tips and Tricks about Hamantaschen

To ensure your Hamantaschen turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips to keep in mind. Mastering these elements can elevate your baking game and make each batch a delight!

• Storage: Store leftover Hamantaschen in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for about a week, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat whenever you want.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. Simply prepare them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
• Pairing: These delicious pastries pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or brunch gatherings.
• Filling Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative with fillings! Try using nut butters, chocolate chips, or even a sweet potato filling for a unique twist on the classic.
• Decorating: Consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled Hamantaschen for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the filling beautifully.

What to Serve Alongside Hamantaschen

When it comes to serving Hamantaschen, think about how to enhance the experience with delightful pairings. Here are some ideas:

• Tea or Coffee: Pair these sweet treats with your favorite hot beverage. The warmth of tea or coffee complements the buttery flavors wonderfully.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad makes for a light side that balances the richness of the pastries.
• Cheese Platter: Serve them alongside a cheese platter for a unique sweet and savory experience. Include soft cheeses that pair well with the sweetness of the Hamantaschen.
• Festive Occasions: These pastries are perfect for celebrations, especially during Purim. They add a sweet touch to any festive table.
• Picnics: Bring Hamantaschen along for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Their portability makes them an ideal snack.
• Storage Tips: For the best flavor and texture, keep your Hamantaschen in an airtight container. This helps maintain their freshness for days.

FAQ

Conclusion

Making Hamantaschen is not just about the delicious taste; it’s a celebration of tradition and creativity in the kitchen. Each batch brings back fond memories and creates new ones with loved ones, making it a recipe worth trying. So why not roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful baking adventure? I promise, once you make these sweet pastries, you’ll want to share them with everyone!

Hamantaschen

The ultimate comfort food, Hamantaschen are sweet pastries filled with your favorite jams or fillings. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful cookies are easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the buttery dough and sweet filling that come together in a delicious treat that everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 30 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: Jewish

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¾ cup unsalted butter room temperature
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg room temperature
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons water if needed
• Assorted jams jams if desired
• ½ cup poppy seeds
• 4 ounces sweetened condensed milk

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes, until light and fluffy.
2. Add the large egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
3. Scrape down the sides and mix again for 10-20 seconds.
4. Add the all-purpose flour and salt and mix until just barely combined in a crumbly dough.
5. Use your hands to press the dough together. If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time to help it come together.
6. Form the dough into a disk and wrap it with plastic wrap. Chill for 2 hours.
7. While the dough is chilling prepare the poppy seed filling.
8. Once the dough is chilled, preheat the oven to 350°.
9. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/8 inch thick.
10. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out rounds of dough.
11. Carefully transfer the rounds to parchment-lined baking sheets leaving 1 inch between them.
12. Place 1 teaspoon of poppy seed filling or jam in the center of the dough.
13. Fold up the side of the dough to form a triangle around the filling, pinching the corners together to prevent leaking while baking.
14. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are just starting to turn golden brown around the corners.
15. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover Hamantaschen in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Tip 3: These pastries pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.
• Tip 4: Don't hesitate to get creative with fillings!
• Tip 5: Consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled Hamantaschen.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.