Homemade Polish Fiołki: A Sweet Violet Liqueur Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup of cold water
  • 1 cup of strawberry jam
  • 1/2 cup of powdered sugar for dusting
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add the cold water to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  4. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently a few times, then divide it in half. Wrap each half in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using a cookie cutter, then place half of the cut-outs on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Spread a small amount of strawberry jam onto each cut-out on the baking sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
  8. Roll out the second half of the dough and cut out the same number of shapes. Place these on top of the jam-covered cut-outs, pressing the edges to seal.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  10. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Spoon a small amount of strawberry jam onto the top of each cookie, then dust with powdered sugar mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
  11. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - For mixing the dry ingredients.
  • Fingers - Used to work the butter into the flour mixture.
  • Plastic wrap - For wrapping and chilling the dough in the refrigerator.
  • Rolling pin - To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Cookie cutter - For cutting out shapes from the rolled-out dough.
  • Parchment paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the cookies in the oven.
  • Spoon - To spread the strawberry jam onto the cut-outs.
  • Powdered sugar sifter - To dust the cookies with powdered sugar.
  • Cooling rack - Allows the cookies to cool evenly after baking.

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of fruit jam such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot.
  • Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a different texture.
  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough for extra flavor.
  • Try a different type of crust, such as a graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust.
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and cozy flavor.
  • Consider adding a layer of cream cheese or chocolate spread along with the fruit jam.
  • For a savory variation, substitute the fruit jam with a savory filling like tomato sauce, pesto, or caramelized onions.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for Fiołki, delightful Polish cookies that are as lovely to look at as they are delicious to eat. These cookies are made from simple ingredients including flour, sugar, and butter, and are filled with a dollop of sweet strawberry jam. After a short bake in the oven, they are topped with more jam and a dusting of powdered sugar for a cookie that's just the right amount of sweet. This recipe is easy to follow, and the cookies are perfect for any occasion, be it a simple tea time or a grand celebration. The end result is a batch of beautiful, flower-like cookies with a vibrant, flavorful filling that everyone will love. Enjoy the process of making these beautiful Fiołki, and even more, enjoy the pleasure of eating them!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of jam? - Yes, you can use any type of jam you prefer or have on hand. Strawberry jam is traditionally used for Fiołki, but feel free to experiment with different flavors.
  2. Can I use margarine instead of butter? - While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine as a substitute if needed. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may differ slightly.
  3. How long can I store the Fiołki? - Fiołki can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
  4. Can I make the dough in advance? - Yes, you can make the dough in advance. After chilling in the refrigerator, the dough can be kept for up to 3 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
  5. Can I use a different type of flour? - The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can experiment with different types of flour such as whole wheat or gluten-free flour if desired. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.
  6. Can I skip the powdered sugar and lemon juice topping? - Yes, you can omit the powdered sugar and lemon juice topping if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious without it.
  7. Can I make smaller or larger cookies? - Yes, you can adjust the size of the cookies by using different sizes of cookie cutters. Just keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Cookie Cutter - Used to cut out shapes from the dough.
  • Baking Sheet - Provides a surface for baking the cookies.
  • Parchment Paper - Prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
  • Spoon - Used to spread the strawberry jam onto the cookies.
  • Sifter - Used to dust the powdered sugar onto the cookies.
  • Cooling Rack - Allows the cookies to cool evenly after baking.
  • Plastic Wrap - Used to wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator.

Origin stories

Fiołki, also known as Polish flower cookies, are a delightful part of Poland's rich culinary heritage. These delicate, jam-filled pastries are traditionally baked in the springtime, when the first violets appear in Polish gardens. As a nod to their floral inspiration, the cookies are usually cut into flower shapes before being filled with sweet, tangy jam. The dusting of powdered sugar on top is meant to mimic the light dusting of springtime snow that often falls in Poland. Not simply a dessert, these cookies are a celebration of the changing seasons, showcasing the country's appreciation for the beauty of nature and the joys of home baking.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.