Kolachy cookies are a beloved treat around the world, and it’s no wonder why – they’re ridiculously easy to make! For home cooks looking for a fun and festive holiday baking idea, kolachies are an excellent choice. There’s just something special about sinking your teeth into one of these buttery, flaky treats, especially during the Christmas season. And let’s be real, what’s Christmas without a platter full of homemade cookies, including these irresistible cream cheese-based goodies?
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
Creating these scrumptious sweet snacks requires no expertise in bakery techniques. The recipe’s simplicity is a major drawcard for many bakers. Moreover, the incredible flavor of these treats is what truly sets them apart. Homemade kolachies are sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth. What’s more, their versatility allows you to experiment with various fillings and flavors, giving you endless possibilities to try out.
How to Make Kolachy Cookies
To begin making these delightful kolachy cookies, start by combining the butter and cream cheese, then mix in the flour until a dough forms. Divide the mixture into two equal parts and shape each portion into a ball. Wrap each dough ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow it to rest.Next, prepare the filling by blending the powdered sugar with the cream cheese until smooth. Once you’re ready to assemble the cookies, roll out one of the dough balls as thinly as possible using a rolling pin or your hands. Cut the dough into squares, and then use some of the cream cheese mixture to fill each square. Add a dollop of jam on top of the cream cheese for extra flavor. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, and press the edges together to seal the cookie.Repeat this process with the second dough ball and any remaining filling ingredients. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving. The key to getting the dough rolled out thin enough is to make sure it’s cold, so be patient and don’t rush this step.Kolachy cookies are a staple of many holiday traditions, and their versatility makes them a great addition to any festive spread. You can experiment with different fillings, such as jam or jelly, prune, nut, or even chocolate chips. Whatever your heart desires, these cookies are sure to bring joy to all who taste them.
History of Kolachy Cookies
Kolachy cookies have a rich history that spans across continents and cultures. The traditional sweet treats originated as a wedding dessert in central Europe, where the circular shape is often still used today. Over time, they evolved into a breakfast food in certain regions of the United States and South London, England. The savory versions became a staple for many, while the sweet kolaczki cookies remained a beloved treat from eastern Europe. Despite the variations in spelling – including kolachy, kolacky, and kolace – the name is rooted in an Old Slavic word ‘kolo’ meaning wheel or circle, reflecting the cookie’s original shape. Czech immigrants brought the tradition to the United States in the late 1800s, where it flourished as a popular treat at holidays and church gatherings. Kolachy cookies were more than just a sweet indulgence; they were an everyday comfort food that people couldn’t resist. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their timeless appeal.
Kolachy vs Klobasniky
While some Americans refer to sausage-filled Czech pastries as ‘kolachys,’ technically they’re ‘klobasniky.’ Interestingly, klobasniky were actually created by second-generation Czech-Texans. The original kolachys, on the other hand, date back to Poland and are typically filled with apricot, cream cheese, prunes, poppy seeds, and a blend of spices like nutmeg or mace. Each family would have its own unique recipe for these Christmas cookies, passed down through generations.The aroma of freshly baked kolachys wafts through the air during holiday baking, making it impossible to resist their allure. These delicate cookies can be filled with your favorite jam or other sweet treats, and the process of folding in the edges creates a signature shape that lets you see what’s inside. The pastry’s top and bottom are naturally exposed, allowing you to admire your handiwork before serving.Once they’ve cooled completely on a rack, it’s essential to resist the temptation to take a nibble! Instead, sprinkle these bite-sized treats with plenty of powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
How to Store Kolachy Cookies
When you’ve finished baking your kolacky cookies, allow them to cool to room temperature before storing. They can be kept fresh in an airtight container at refrigerator temperatures for up to four days. If you’re looking to extend their shelf life even further, consider freezing them instead. Simply place the cookies in an airtight, freezer-safe container, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper if they contain jam or other moist fillings. This will help maintain the cookies’ texture and prevent sticking as they’re stored for several months.
Kolachy FAQs
To ensure that your kolachy cookies remain pinched together during baking, it’s essential to leave the cream cheese dough slightly sticky. Avoid over-flouring the dough when rolling it out, as this can cause the edges to seal and prevent the filling from staying contained. Instead, let the natural stickiness of the dough hold the pinches in place.As for freezing kolachy cookie dough, you’re in luck! This type of dough freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, simply defrost the dough overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking the cookies as usual.
Kolachy Cookies Recipe
Kolachy Cookies
Kolachy cookies, a delightful cream cheese pastry filled with a sweet and tangy jam filling, are a treat for both the eyes and taste buds. Perfect for holiday baking, these tender treats require just 32 minutes of your time to prepare and bake.
Instructions
Combine the butter and cream cheese in a mixer bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the flour, being mindful of the dough’s consistency. You may not need all of it. Divide the dough into two portions, shaping each into a ball and wrapping them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for a few hours before proceeding. Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper. For the filling, mix the powdered sugar with cream cheese until smooth. Roll out one dough ball as thinly as possible, then shape it into a large square. Remove the edges to create a uniform base. Cut the square into 2×2-inch squares, applying a diagonal strip of cream cheese mixture and jam to each. Fold in one edge and then the other, sealing the edges with water. Place the filled squares on prepared baking sheets and bake for approximately 12 minutes. Before serving, lightly dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
To optimize the cookie-making process, start by keeping the dough at a cool temperature. This will make it easier to work with, but also ensure that you have extra dough on hand for future use. Simply divide the dough into portions, using one as needed and storing the remaining balls in the fridge until required. When assembling the cookies, aim for a balanced filling of about 1/2 teaspoon each of cream cheese mixture and jam. This will provide a delightful contrast of flavors and textures within each bite.
