Traditional Kolaczki Recipe (Polish Jam Cookies)

If you’ve ever strolled through a Polish bakery or attended a festive Eastern European holiday gathering, chances are you’ve come across Kolaczki — delicate, buttery cookies filled with sweet fruit preserves or nut paste, dusted generously with powdered sugar. These bite-sized pastries are more than just cookies; they are a symbol of family tradition, holiday warmth, and culinary heritage that stretches back centuries.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Kolaczki, including its history, variations, and most importantly, how to make the traditional Kolaczki recipe (Polish jam cookies) step by step.

What Are Kolaczki Recipe?

Kolaczki (pronounced koh-WAHTCH-kee) are traditional Polish cookies made from a rich cream cheese and butter dough, filled with jam or nut paste, and folded into a small, neat pastry. They are light yet indulgent, with a soft, flaky texture that melts in your mouth.

Though they are most closely associated with Poland, Kolaczki are also popular in other Central and Eastern European cuisines, particularly in Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Each culture has its own variation in dough and filling, but the essence remains the same — a celebration of sweetness wrapped in tender pastry.

Ingredients for Traditional Kolaczki Recipe

Making Kolaczki requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — the magic comes from the buttery dough and the fruity, jewel-toned fillings.

You’ll need:

• 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened – Butter gives the dough its rich, flaky texture.

• 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – This is the secret ingredient that makes the dough tender and slightly tangy.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and balance.

• ½ cup (120g) thick fruit preserves – Apricot, raspberry, plum, or even nut fillings are traditional choices. Thick preserves are best, so they don’t ooze out during baking.

• Powdered sugar, for dusting – The final snowy touch that makes Kolaczki irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions Kolaczki Recipe

Follow these steps to create perfect Polish Kolaczki at home:

1. Mix the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough
   Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is crucial for handling the dough and achieving flaky layers.

3. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

4. Roll and Cut the Dough
   On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares using a knife or pastry cutter.

5. Add the Filling
   Place ½ teaspoon of jam or nut filling in the center of each square. Avoid overfilling, as it can leak during baking.

6. Fold and Seal
   Bring two opposite corners of the square toward the center, slightly overlapping them, and pinch gently to seal. You can also brush a little water or egg white to help them stick.

7. Bake
   Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.

8. Cool and Dust
   Allow cookies to cool completely, then generously dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for the Best Kolaczki Recipe

• Use thick jam: Runny preserves will boil over during baking. If your jam is too thin, you can cook it down slightly on the stovetop to thicken.

• Don’t skip chilling: Cold dough is easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape.

• Seal properly: Gently pinch or press the dough corners to prevent them from opening in the oven.

• Bake until just golden: Overbaking can make the cookies dry.

Variations of Kolaczki Recipe

While the classic Polish version features fruit preserves, Kolaczki are versatile and adaptable. Here are some popular variations:

• Nut Filling: Ground walnuts or almonds mixed with sugar and egg whites create a rich, nutty center.

• Cheese Filling: Sweetened farmer’s cheese or ricotta for a creamy surprise.

• Poppy Seed Filling: A traditional Eastern European favorite, offering a slightly earthy, sweet flavor.

• Holiday Twist: Use cranberry preserves at Christmas or strawberry jam for Valentine’s Day.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

• Storage: Keep Kolaczki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked dough discs for up to 2 months. Baked Kolaczki also freeze well; thaw before dusting with powdered sugar.

• Serving: These cookies are perfect with coffee or tea and make a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Frequently Asked Questions (PAA Style)

1. What is the origin of Kolaczki Recipe?
Kolaczki originated in Poland and spread across Central and Eastern Europe. They are especially popular during Christmas, Easter, and weddings.

2. Can I make Kolaczki without cream cheese?
Yes, but cream cheese is what makes the dough tender. Some variations use sour cream instead, but the texture will be slightly different.

3. Why do my Kolaczki open while baking?
This usually happens if the dough isn’t chilled enough or if the corners aren’t sealed tightly. Press firmly or use a dab of water to help them stick.

4. What’s the best filling for Kolaczki Recipe?
Traditional fillings include apricot, raspberry, plum, nut paste, or poppy seed. The key is using thick preserves that won’t spread too much during baking.

5. How do I prevent Kolaczki from becoming soggy?
Avoid overfilling and use thick jam. Also, store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Polish Jam Cookie

Kolaczki are more than just cookies; they are little pieces of tradition passed down through generations. They represent celebration, hospitality, and family togetherness. Whether you’re Polish or simply love trying international recipes, baking Kolaczki is a way to bring a touch of Eastern European tradition into your kitchen.

With their buttery dough, sweet jam filling, and snowy sugar topping, these cookies strike the perfect balance between simple and elegant.

Final Thoughts Kolaczki Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s festive, delicious, and rooted in tradition, the Traditional Kolaczki Recipe (Polish Jam Cookies) is a must-try. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress at holidays, family gatherings, or even as a weekend baking project.

So, roll up your sleeves, dust your counter with flour, and bake a batch of these delightful cookies. You’ll quickly understand why Kolaczki have remained a beloved treat for centuries.

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