I remember the first time I made Kolacky Cookies with my grandmother. Her kitchen always smelled of vanilla and fruit filling. We spent a rainy afternoon rolling the dough, and I laughed as she demonstrated how to perfectly fold the cookies over. Each one seemed like a tiny work of art, waiting to be filled with sweet fruit. As we baked them, the warm, buttery scent filled our home, wrapping us in a cozy hug. Growing up with these cookies made me understand the importance of family traditions, and now I feel so fortunate to share this recipe with you. Kolacky Cookies bring joy into the kitchen, and they sweeten every gathering.

why make this recipe

Kolacky Cookies are not just a treat; they are little bites of happiness. This recipe brings family and friends together. Not only do they taste divine, but they are also easy to make! You will feel accomplished as you prepare them, and the compliments will flow once you serve them. The blend of creamy butter, soft cream cheese, and fruity fillings creates a wonderful taste that dances on your palate.

Furthermore, these cookies have a unique flavor that fits many occasions. You can make them for holidays, gatherings, or just a cozy night at home. Since you can choose various fruit fillings like apricot, raspberry, or cherry, you can customize them to suit your preferences. Each batch feels like a new adventure. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some Kolacky Cookies that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

how to make Kolacky Cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Fruit filling (apricot, raspberry, cherry, etc.)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

In a food processor, combine flour, cold butter, and cream cheese. Pulse until the mixture resembles a meal.
Form the mixture into a ball of dough and flatten it into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles or desired shapes.
Place a small amount of fruit filling in the center of each piece of dough and fold the edges over.
Arrange cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Allow to cool and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

how to serve Kolacky Cookies

Serving Kolacky Cookies can be as fun as making them! For a delightful look, place them on a beautiful platter and dust them with powdered sugar right before serving. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, where they taste equally fantastic. They pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a lovely snack for brunch or an afternoon treat.

Also, consider serving these cookies during special occasions. They shine at holiday gatherings, showers, or family reunions. You could warm them slightly, drizzle some chocolate on top, or add a dollop of whipped cream next to each cookie. The light sweetness and rich flavors always impress!

how to store Kolacky Cookies

To keep your Kolacky Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They last about one week at room temperature; however, refrigerating them can extend their life for up to two weeks. Just make sure they are completely cooled before you store them. To prevent moisture, you can place a piece of paper towel in the container.

If you’d like to freeze them, you can do so for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to layer parchment paper between cookies. This situation will help them stay fresh and keep their rich textures. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar again if desired.

Tips to Make Kolacky Cookies

Keep Ingredients Cold: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are cold. This step helps the cookies maintain a flaky texture. You can even chill your mixing bowls for extra coldness!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which we want to avoid. Use your processor carefully to keep everything light and airy.
Properly Chill Dough: Chilling the dough is essential. It not only makes the dough easier to roll but also helps the cookies hold their shape during baking. Remember, patience pays off!
Use Quality Fillings: Choose high-quality fruit fillings for the best flavor. Homemade fillings are an option as well. They can add a personal touch and enhance the overall taste.
Experiment with Shapes: While circles are traditional, don’t hesitate to get creative with shapes! Holiday-themed cookie cutters can make your Kolacky Cookies festive and fun, especially for special occasions.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven can be different, so start checking the cookies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Remove them as soon as they are lightly golden to prevent them from becoming too hard.
Mix and Match Toppings: The dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but consider adding a glaze or chocolate drizzle for an extra special touch. This addition brings a new layer of flavor and looks lovely!
Store Wisely: If you want to keep cookies fresh longer, ensure your storage containers have minimal air inside. You can also wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap before putting them in the container for added protection.

Variation of Kolacky Cookies

Chocolate-Hazelnut Kolacky: Swap the fruit filling with chocolate-hazelnut spread. This creamy center offers a rich, decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore. Dust with a little cocoa powder for added flair!
Lemon Cream Kolacky: For a refreshing twist, use lemon curd as the filling. The zesty flavor provides a bright contrast to the buttery dough, making it perfect for a summer treat. Garnish with lemon zest before serving.
Nutty Kolacky Version: Add crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans to the fruit filling. This variation provides a crunchy texture and a rich, nutty flavor. It pairs beautifully with cherry or raspberry fillings.
Spiced Apple Kolacky: Use spiced apple filling for a cozy winter treat. This change will create a warm atmosphere, perfect for holiday gatherings. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top after baking for a lovely aroma.
Smooth Caramel Kolacky: Replace the fruit filling with cookie dough or caramel. This creamy and gooey center brings a totally different flavor to the traditional cookie, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Low-Sugar Kolacky: For a healthier option, use sugar substitutes in the dough and fruit filling. This swap provides a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. Be sure to choose sweeteners that pair well with your fillings.

FAQs Of Kolacky Cookies

1. Can I freeze Kolacky Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Kolacky Cookies. After baking and cooling them completely, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between cookies. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them at room temperature, and they will taste fresh.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, consider using mascarpone or ricotta. Both offer a similar creamy texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
To prevent the filling from leaking, ensure you fold the dough edges tightly before baking. Use only a small amount of filling in the center to avoid overflow. You can also brush a bit of beaten egg on the edges for a better seal.

4. How do I make my Kolacky Cookies more festive?
To enhance the festive vibe, use vibrant fruit fillings like raspberry or cherry. Shaping them into holiday cookie cutters adds charm. Finally, try drizzling them with chocolate or dusting with colored sugar for a fun touch!

5. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days. Just ensure it is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. This step not only saves time but also enhances the flavor.

6. What is the best way to serve Kolacky Cookies?
Serve Kolacky Cookies on a beautiful platter dusted with powdered sugar. They taste delightful either warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful experience!

Kolacky Cookies

Author: imrane
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and customizable cookies filled with fruit preserves, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Fruit filling (apricot, raspberry, cherry, etc.)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

In a food processor, combine flour, cold butter, and cream cheese. Pulse until the mixture resembles a meal.
Form the mixture into a ball of dough and flatten it into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 60 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles or desired shapes.
Place a small amount of fruit filling in the center of each piece of dough and fold the edges over.
Arrange cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Allow to cool and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For best results, keep ingredients cold and do not overmix the dough.

Prep Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Eastern European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 80mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Kolacky, cookies, fruit filling, dessert, family recipe