If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting Kolaczki, you know they are little pockets of joy, bursting with fruity sweetness wrapped in tender, buttery dough. This Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe captures that nostalgic essence perfectly, combining cream cheese and butter into a delicate pastry that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re familiar with this traditional treat or new to Polish baking, get ready to fall in love with these irresistible cookies that look as charming as they taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a critical role in creating the perfect tender texture and delightful flavor. From the rich cream cheese that gives the dough its softness to the vibrant fruit preserves that add a pop of sweet-tart goodness, every component is essential.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a flaky, buttery richness that forms the cookie’s base.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds tangy creaminess that makes the dough incredibly tender.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of your cookies, holding everything together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting): Gives a snowy finishing touch, balancing sweetness and appearance.
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or prune): Creates the delectable fruity center with a vibrant flavor contrast.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds warmth and an extra layer of flavor complexity.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors, preventing the dough from tasting flat.
How to Make Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
Start by beating the softened butter and cream cheese together until you achieve a smooth, fluffy mixture. This is crucial because the texture here sets up how tender and melt-in-your-mouth your cookies will ultimately be.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Salt
If you’re using vanilla extract, mix it in now along with a pinch of salt. The vanilla will lend a cozy aroma while the salt sharpens the overall flavor, ensuring each bite is well-balanced and interesting.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and stir until a soft dough forms. You want just enough flour to bring everything together without making the dough tough, so take your time and mix gently.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal disks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and pop them into the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling relaxes the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut, and helps prevent spreading while baking.
Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment will stop your cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.
Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 2-by-2-inch squares—uniformity helps them bake consistently and look charming when finished.
Step 7: Add Fruit Preserves and Fold
Place a small spoonful of your favorite fruit preserves in the center of each square. Then, gently fold two opposite corners into the center and press to seal the dough. If it’s a little dry, a dab of water will help the dough stick together without tearing.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the folded cookies about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on them—they should remain tender, not browned.
Step 9: Cool and Dust with Sugar
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar. This final touch not only adds sweetness but creates that classic, inviting look of Kolaczki.
How to Serve Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe
Garnishes
While powdered sugar is the traditional flourish, feel free to sprinkle some finely chopped nuts or a light drizzle of melted chocolate for an elegant twist. Fresh mint leaves alongside can also brighten the presentation and add a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Kolaczki cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect companion for afternoon gatherings. They also complement a glass of sweet dessert wine or chilled milk, enhancing the overall enjoyment of their delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Kolaczki on a tiered serving platter or nestle them in paper cupcake liners for a charming display. If giving them as gifts, stack them in a decorative box with parchment paper sheets in between layers to keep them looking fresh and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Kolaczki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. The cookies retain their soft texture beautifully, and the flavors even have a chance to deepen slightly over time.
Freezing
You can freeze baked Kolaczki by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cookies last for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
Refreshing Kolaczki is a breeze—simply warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked softness and melts the fruit preserves just a bit for extra yum.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fruit preserves for this Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe?
Absolutely! While apricot, raspberry, and prune are traditional favorites, feel free to experiment with strawberry, cherry, or even fig preserves. Just use a thick jam to avoid soggy dough.
Do I have to use cream cheese in the dough?
Cream cheese is key for that tender, flaky texture characteristic of Kolaczki. You might try substituting with mascarpone or a similar soft cheese, but skip it and the cookies will lose their signature softness.
Can I make this Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the dough cohesive.
How long do these cookies keep fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, Kolaczki stay fresh for up to five days at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within that window for optimal texture and taste.
Is it okay to freeze the dough instead of the baked cookies?
Definitely! Chill the dough disks well, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling out, cutting, and filling.
Final Thoughts
This Kolaczki (Polish Cookies) Recipe is such a wonderful way to bring a little sweetness and tradition into your kitchen. They’re simple enough for a cozy baking afternoon yet special enough for holiday gatherings or gift-giving. Once you taste these tender, fruit-filled delights, I’m sure they’ll become one of your favorite go-to cookie recipes too. Happy baking!
