Easy Kolacky Recipe

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There’s something unmistakably delightful about biting into a kolacky. This traditional Eastern European treat combines a buttery, flaky pastry with a sweet, fruity filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re familiar with kolacky from family gatherings or are trying them for the first time, this easy recipe will have you baking like a pro in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This kolacky recipe is incredibly simple, using just a few ingredients to create a deliciously tender and flaky pastry. It’s versatile enough to accommodate various fruit fillings, making it a favorite for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead treat that can be stored and savored throughout the week.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Pizza wheel or sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (12.5 ounce) can apricot fruit filling (such as Solo(R))
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar to the mixture and continue beating until well combined.
3. Gradually beat in the flour until the dough is well mixed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
4. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
5. On a well-floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Use a pizza wheel or sharp knife to cut the dough into 2 1/2-inch squares.
6. Spoon about 2 teaspoons of apricot filling into the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill.
7. Fold opposite corners of each square into the center and pinch the dough to seal. The filling should peek out slightly from each end.
8. Place the kolacky on an ungreased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until set but not browned, about 12 minutes.
9. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool, then dust with the remaining confectioners’ sugar.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened for easier mixing.
• Refrigerating the dough is crucial for preventing it from becoming too sticky to handle.
• Use a generous amount of flour when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try different fillings such as raspberry, strawberry, or even a nut-based filling for variety.
• For a touch of extra sweetness, roll the dough in powdered sugar instead of flour before baking.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie

Fat: 10g

Carbohydrates: 13g

Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I freeze the dough?

A: Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to a month. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Q: How should I store the baked kolacky?

A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making delicious kolacky, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these treats are sure to delight anyone who tries them. Don’t forget to share your kolacky baking adventures in the comments below. Happy baking!

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