Learn how to make classic Hamantaschen, a traditional Jewish cookie usually enjoyed during the festival of Purim. These sweet and delicious cookies have a tender cookie base filled with your choice of sweet fillings like fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or even nut butters. They are easy to make and customizable, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Fruit preserves or other fillings of choice (e.g., chocolate ganache, nut butter)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture and using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the sides of the dough circle up to form a triangle shape, leaving a small opening in the center to see the filling.
- Pinch the edges of the triangle together tightly to seal the cookies.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Place the filled cookies onto the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy the delicious homemade hamantaschen with your loved ones during Purim festivities!
