Hamantaschen

Hamantaschen are traditional triangular-shaped cookies typically enjoyed during the Jewish holiday of Purim. These buttery, soft cookies are filled with a variety of sweet fillings such as fruit preserves, poppy seeds, or chocolate, making each bite a delightful surprise. The dough is slightly crisp on the outside, with a tender center that encases the filling perfectly. Their distinctive shape is said to represent the hat of the villain Haman from the Purim story, adding a touch of fun and meaning to this delicious treat. Whether for tradition or a new baking adventure, Hamantaschen are a festive and delicious way to celebrate.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional for added flavor)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed)
• Assorted fillings: fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or prune), chocolate spread, or poppy seed filling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until smooth. Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using), and mix until combined.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water, one at a time, until the dough holds together.
3. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. Roll and Cut: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles about 3 inches in diameter.
5. Add the Filling: Place 1 teaspoon of your chosen filling in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, as the cookies need to hold their shape.
6. Shape the Hamantaschen: To form the traditional triangle shape, pinch the edges of each circle at three points to create a triangle, leaving some of the filling exposed in the center.
7. Bake: Place the Hamantaschen on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these deliciously sweet and symbolic treats!