Hamantaschen Recipe: The Best Guide for Perfect Cookies

Looking for the best hamantaschen recipe? You’ve come to the right place! This hamantaschen recipe is perfect for Purim or any time you crave these delicious triangular cookies. With a tender, sweet dough and a variety of fillings, this is one of the best hamantaschen recipes you’ll ever try.

Hamantaschen Recipe

Recipe by SouhailCuisine: Jewish cuisineDifficulty: Easy

Servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

A traditional Jewish cookie with a sweet, tender dough and various fillings, perfect for Purim celebrations.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange juice
Fillings: raspberry jam, poppy seed filling, chocolate spread, etc.

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, vanilla extract, and orange juice. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
Fill and Shape: Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the edges to form a triangle, pinching the corners to seal.
Bake: Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure the dough is well-chilled to prevent spreading.
Use a variety of fillings to suit different tastes.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Hamantaschen Variants

Hamantaschen can be made with a variety of fillings to suit different tastes. Traditional fillings include poppy seed (mohn), apricot, and prune. For a modern twist, try using Nutella, peanut butter, or even savory options like cheese and herbs. You can also experiment with different dough flavors by adding cocoa powder for a chocolate version or using whole wheat flour for a healthier option. The possibilities are endless, making this one of the best hamantaschen recipes to customize and enjoy.

Tips for a perfect hamantaschen recipe

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape of the hamantaschen.
Seal Well: Pinch the corners tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings like Nutella, fruit preserves, or even savory options.
Use Parchment Paper: This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause the cookies to burst open.
Use a Cookie Cutter: For uniform cookies, use a round cookie cutter or a glass with a sharp edge to cut out the dough circles.
Prevent Dough from Sticking: Dust your rolling pin and work surface with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while rolling it out.
Rotate the Baking Sheet: Halfway through baking, rotate the baking sheet to ensure even baking and browning of the cookies.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of the baking time. They should be lightly golden but not too brown.
Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them to maintain their crispness.

FAQ

What fillings work best for hamantaschen?

Traditional fillings include poppy seed, prune, apricot, and raspberry jams, but you can also use chocolate, Nutella, or other fruit preserves. Just make sure the filling is thick enough so it doesn’t run out while baking.

How do I prevent hamantaschen from opening up in the oven?

To prevent hamantaschen from opening, make sure to pinch the corners of the dough firmly to seal them well. Chilling the formed cookies for 10-15 minutes before baking can also help them hold their shape in the oven.

This hamantaschen recipe is truly one of the best hamantaschen recipes you’ll find. Whether you’re celebrating Purim or just in the mood for a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to delight. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and share the joy of baking with family and friends.