Kolaczki (Polish Cookies)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kolaczki are a beloved Polish pastry, commonly made for Christmas but perfect for any occasion. These cookies offer the perfect balance of a flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, tart jam filling. The fact that they are simple to make with only a few ingredients makes them an ideal choice for bakers of all levels. The elegant appearance and festive feel make them a standout on any cookie plate, while their delicious flavor will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)

• cream cheese (softened, full fat)

• almond extract (or other extracts of choice)

• salt

• all-purpose flour

• jam (such as raspberry, apricot, or lemon curd)

• water (to seal dough)

• powdered sugar (for dusting)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: Cream together butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add salt and flour in three additions, mixing well each time. Shape dough into a ball, flatten it, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.

2. Roll the Dough: After chilling, roll dough on a surface dusted with powdered sugar to ¼ inch thickness. Trim edges and cut dough into 2 ½ inch squares.

3. Fill and Shape the Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place a spoonful of jam in the center of each square. Fold corners over the filling, sealing with a little water, and pinch edges together.

4. Bake: Arrange cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

5. Cool and Dust: Cool on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies (depending on size)

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Chilling time: 1 hour

• Baking time: 10-12 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Flavors: Experiment with different jam fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry.

• Citrus Twist: Add a bit of lemon zest to the dough for a fresh, citrusy flavor.

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on the filling before sealing the dough for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Kolaczki can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To preserve their texture, it’s best to enjoy them fresh or within the first couple of days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months before dusting with powdered sugar.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of jam for the filling?

Yes, you can use any jam you prefer, but make sure it's thick enough to avoid running out during baking. Raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd are popular choices.

2. Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling the dough for about an hour is crucial for making these cookies. It helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and shape.

3. Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to two days before rolling and baking.

4. Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, once the cookies are baked and cooled, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure not to dust them with powdered sugar until after they are thawed.

5. What type of flour should I use?

Use all-purpose flour for this recipe. It provides the right texture for the delicate, flaky pastry.

6. Can I use salted butter?

It's best to use unsalted butter in this recipe so you can control the amount of salt. If using salted butter, omit the added salt.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used in place of butter, the flavor and texture may not be as rich and flaky.

8. What’s the best way to seal the dough?

To ensure the dough stays sealed during baking, use a drop of water on the corners and pinch the dough tightly together with your fingers.

9. How do I make sure the cookies don’t get soggy?

To keep the cookies from becoming soggy, ensure that the jam you use is thick and not too runny, and avoid storing them for too long.

10. Can I add nuts to the dough?

Yes, you can add finely chopped nuts to the dough or as a topping for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Kolaczki are a charming and delicious Polish cookie that are simple to make but look impressive. With a few basic ingredients, you can create these flaky, jam-filled treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving them at a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them with tea, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

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