Hamantaschen
Hamantaschen, the traditional Jewish treat typically enjoyed during the holiday of Purim, are delightful cookies reminiscent of shortbread. These cookies are filled with jam or other sweet fillings, making them a delicious treat to savor. Instead of buying them from a local bakery this year, why not give homemade hamantaschen a try? The most challenging part of this recipe is simply waiting for the dough to chill before filling and baking these delightful treats. Prepare the dough the night before, and you'll be ready to fill your cookies with your favorite filling, serve them, and celebrate the next day!What exactly are hamantaschen?Hamantaschen are cookies with a texture similar to shortbread. They are often filled with jam or other sweet fillings. These buttery cookies, with their sweet jam filling, create a delightful combination in this traditional recipe. While our recipe features a fruit filling, you can get creative and experiment with your preferred flavor combinations!The significance of hamantaschen in Jewish tradition:These cookies hold special meaning and are traditionally enjoyed during the Jewish holiday of Purim. The holiday commemorates the story of Queen Esther, who saved her people from being annihilated by Haman, a royal official. Hamantaschen, shaped like Haman's hat, symbolize and celebrate his defeat.Which fillings are most popular?The choice of filling can vary across different hamantaschen recipes. In our recipe, we opted for a fruit filling, such as apricot or raspberry, which works wonderfully. However, you have the freedom to explore various flavors according to your preferences. Chocolate filling or even a classic poppy seed filling are also popular choices that can add a delightful twist to your hamantaschen.
Ingredients
- 1 c. (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 c. granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3 1/2 c. all-purpose flour, plus more for surface
- 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- Egg wash, for brushing
- 1 (12-oz.) can Solo fruit filling
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and beat well. Mix in flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla.
- When thoroughly mixed, cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat oven to 375º. Roll dough on well-floured surface. (Keep unused dough cold.) Cut circles, using a glass or clean Solo can, dipped in flour. Brush each circle with egg wash, then top with fruit filling.
- Bring up 3 corners and pinch to form a triangle. Place on cookie sheet.
- Brush outsides with egg wash and bake until slightly browned, 15 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!