TRADITIONAL HAMANTASCHEN
Spice & Spirit
COOKIES
Traditional Hamantaschen are classic triangular pastries filled with sweet fillings like poppy seed, prune butter, or fruity jams. These delightful treats are a staple for Purim celebrations, with each cookie showcasing a tender, slightly crisp dough that perfectly encases the flavorful filling. Shaping the dough into triangles adds a festive and recognizable touch, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
4 eggs
1 cup sugar
½ cup oil
Juice of 1 lemon, grated
Rind of 1 lemon, grated
1 tsp vanilla extract
5 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
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1 pound prepared mohn filling (poppy seed)
1 pound lekvar (apple or prune butter)
Jam or preserves (strawberry, apricot, etc.)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease cookie sheets.
Beat eggs and sugar. Add oil, lemon juice, lemon rind, and vanilla; mix well.
Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth.
Divide the dough into four parts.
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Prepare Dough: Place a portion of your dough on a lightly floured surface.
Roll and Cut: Roll out each portion to about ⅛ inch thick and use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut circles.
Add Filling: Place ½ to 1 teaspoon of your chosen filling (poppy seed, jam, or prune butter) in the center of each circle.
Shape into Triangles (First Fold): Lift two sides of the circle and pinch them together at the top to start forming a triangle.
Shape into Triangles (Second Fold): Bring the third side of the dough up to meet the pinched edges, creating a triangular shape. Pinch the edges together to seal.
Bake: Place shaped cookies on greased cookie sheets and bake in a 350°F preheated oven for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Note: For a glossy finish, brush the tops with beaten egg before baking if desired.
