Creamy, flaky, and delightfully jam-filled, Polish Kolaczki cookies are the kind of small treat that instantly feels like a warm hug from a grandmother.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time15 minutesmins
Total Time1 hourhr30 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Polish
Keyword: Easy, Holiday
Servings: 24cookies
Calories: 100kcal
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Rolling Pin
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Wire Rack
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
2cupsAll-purpose flourMeasured, no sifting needed
1cupButterChilled and diced
1cupCream cheeseSoftened to room temperature
1/2cupGranulated sugarFor dusting after baking
Filling Ingredients
1cupJam or sweet cheeseApricot, raspberry, or sweet cheese work well
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup butter (chilled and diced), and 1 cup cream cheese (softened). Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands to mix until the dough comes together and is smooth but not overly warm. Work quickly so the butter stays cold.
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling firms the dough and makes it much easier to roll and cut.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into approximately 2.5 inch squares or circles.
Place a teaspoon of filling (jam, preserve, or a small dollop of sweet cheese) in the center of each square. Fold two opposite corners to the center so they overlap slightly, pressing gently to seal and create the classic Kolaczki shape.
Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before dusting with 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Dust generously so they glisten and taste sweet.
Notes
Keep ingredients cold for the flakiest cookies. If the dough gets soft, pop it back in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.