Description
These delightful Hamantaschen cookies are a festive treat for Purim, featuring a tender, citrus-infused dough made with fresh orange juice. The subtle orange flavor enhances the traditional triangular cookies, which can be filled with poppy seed, fruit preserves, or chocolate. A must-try for any baking enthusiast!
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest (optional, but enhances flavor)
¼ tsp salt
Filling of choice (poppy seed, jam, chocolate, etc.)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest for a fragrant citrus flavor.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth, soft dough forms.
If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour one tablespoon at a time.
3. Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Chilling prevents spreading and makes rolling easier.
4. Roll & Cut the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
Use a round cookie cutter (or a glass, about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
5. Fill & Shape the Hamantaschen
Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle.
Fold up the edges into a triangle shape, pinching the corners firmly to seal.
6. Bake the Cookies
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For crispier edges, bake for an extra 2 minutes.
Use a variety of fillings to create a colorful assortment.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for later!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g