Traditional Polish Kolaczki Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups unsalted butter, softened
4.5 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry)
1 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing well after each addition. Continue to mix until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut the dough into 2-inch squares. Place about 1 teaspoon of the fruit preserves in the center of each square.
Fold opposite corners of the dough square over the filling and seal by pressing the corners together.
Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Sift powdered sugar over the cooled cookies before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the cream cheese, butter, and flour.
Electric Mixer - For beating the cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy.
Plastic Wrap - To wrap and refrigerate the dough portions.
Rolling Pin - To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Parchment Paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent the cookies from sticking.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet pan for baking the kolaczki cookies.
Wire Rack - To cool the cookies evenly after baking.
Sifter - To dust the powdered sugar over the cooled cookies for a finishing touch.

Recipe variations

Use different fruit preserves such as cherry, blueberry, or peach.
Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the filling.
Try a different type of crust, such as a puff pastry or a shortbread crust.
Experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough.
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Make a savory version by using savory fillings like cheese, ham, or spinach and feta.
Add a touch of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the dough for a refreshing twist.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent treat.
Try different shapes for the cookies, such as triangles or rounds, for a more unique presentation.
For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour or substitute some of the butter with applesauce.

Recipe overview

Get ready to transport yourself to a classic Polish bakery with these traditional Kolaczki cookies. This recipe will guide you through creating these delightful, filled pastries from scratch. Enjoy crafting a light, flaky cream cheese dough, and savor the sweet burst of flavor from fruit preserves wrapped inside each cookie. You'll finish off these treats with a dusting of powdered sugar, adding an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive holiday cookie array, Kolaczki are a versatile treat that are always well-received. Your kitchen will fill with a warm, buttery aroma as these cookies bake, promising a delicious reward for your baking efforts. Enjoy the process and the results of creating these charming, traditional Polish pastries.

Common questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted? No, it is recommended to use unsalted butter in this recipe to have better control over the saltiness of the dough. But if you only have salted butter, you can reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour works best for this recipe as it provides the right texture and structure. Using a different type of flour may result in a different outcome.
Can I use different fruit preserves? Yes, you can use different types of fruit preserves such as apricot, raspberry, or strawberry. Choose your favorite flavor or even mix different flavors for variety.
Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough. After dividing it into portions and wrapping in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator before using.
How should I store the baked kolaczki? Store the cooled kolaczki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking the cookies. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Serving dishes and utensils

Rolling pin - Used for rolling out the dough to the desired thickness.
Baking sheet - A flat sheet used for baking the kolaczki in the oven.
Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the kolaczki from sticking and for easy cleanup.
Plastic wrap - Used for wrapping the dough portions before refrigerating.
Wire rack - Used for cooling the baked kolaczki.
Sifter - Used to sift powdered sugar over the cooled cookies.
Measuring cups and spoons - Used for accurate measurement of ingredients.

Origin stories

Kolaczki, these delightful fruit-filled pastries, hold a cherished place in the culinary repertoire of Poland and other Eastern European countries. The origin of kolaczki is traced back to the celebration of the victory over the Ottoman Turks in the Battle of Vienna in 1683. The baker who first crafted these treats designed them to resemble the crescent moon of the Ottoman flag. The kolaczki, with their sweet fillings and soft, crumbly dough, were instantly loved and have since been a staple in Polish households, particularly during the holiday season. It’s a delicious pinch of history one can taste, a tangible connection to a triumphant past, perfectly sweetened with the flavors of victory.

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.