Cream Cheese Kolacky are traditional Eastern European pastries made with a rich, buttery cream cheese dough and filled with sweet fruit preserves. These delicate, flaky cookies are often enjoyed during holidays or special occasions, with their light pastry dough contrasting perfectly with the tangy-sweet filling. The dough, made with cream cheese and butter, gives these cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether dusted with powdered sugar or left as is, Cream Cheese Kolacky are a delightful, bite-sized treat that combines simple ingredients into a delicious, elegant dessert.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or your choice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms. If desired, stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and Cut the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round or square cookie cutter to cut the dough into 2-3 inch shapes.
- Add the Filling:
- Place a small dollop (about 1/2 teaspoon) of fruit preserves in the center of each dough piece. Fold opposite corners of the dough over the filling, pinching them together gently to seal.
- Bake the Kolacky:
- Arrange the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the kolacky to cool on a wire rack.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- Once cooled, dust the kolacky with powdered sugar before serving.
Cream Cheese Kolacky are light, buttery, and filled with fruity sweetness, making them perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a simple afternoon treat. Their elegant presentation and melt-in-your-mouth texture will have everyone reaching for seconds!
