Easy Hamantaschen Recipe - A Simple and Delicious Purim Treat

Hamantaschen are the iconic triangular cookies traditionally made for Purim, a Jewish holiday celebrating Queen Esther’s bravery. These delightful treats are not only delicious but also rich in history and symbolism. Each hamantaschen cookie is folded into a triangle, representing the hat of Haman, the villain in the Purim story. This easy hamantaschen recipe lets you create these festive cookies with minimal effort while achieving maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy hamantaschen recipe is ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned experts. The dough is simple to make and versatile enough to pair with a variety of fillings. From classic jam flavors like apricot and raspberry to unique options like chocolate or poppy seed, you can customize each cookie to suit your taste. The buttery, slightly crisp dough complements the sweet filling, creating a perfect balance in every bite. Plus, these cookies are fun to make, especially with family or friends!

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Easy Hamantaschen

Brief Description

Hamantaschen are triangular-shaped cookies filled with sweet jam or other fillings, traditionally made during Purim. This recipe features a buttery dough that’s easy to work with and bakes into a light, delicious cookie.

Ingredients

To make these easy hamantaschen, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp water (as needed for dough consistency)
• 1/2 cup jam or filling of choice (apricot, raspberry, chocolate, poppy seed, etc.)

Substitutions

Feel free to adjust this recipe with the following substitutions:

• Butter: Use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a non-dairy version.
• Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative if preferred.
• Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfect hamantaschen:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if the dough is too crumbly.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape while baking.
6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll Out Dough: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles, approximately 3 inches in diameter.
8. Add Filling: Place a small spoonful of jam or filling in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it can cause the filling to overflow during baking.
9. Fold and Shape: Gently fold up the edges to form a triangle, pinching the corners to seal. Leave a small opening at the center where the filling is visible.
10. Bake: Place the hamantaschen on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy!

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Serving Suggestions

This recipe yields about 24 hamantaschen. Here are some ideas for serving:

• At a Purim Celebration: Serve with other traditional Purim treats and drinks for a festive spread.
• With Coffee or Tea: These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
• As a Gift: Package in a decorative box and give as a holiday gift to friends and family.

Nutritional Information

Each hamantaschen cookie contains approximately:

• Calories: 80
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 4g

Storage and Reheating Tips

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to store them:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do my hamantaschen open up during baking?

To avoid this, make sure the dough is chilled, and pinch the corners tightly to seal. Avoid overfilling with jam, as excess filling can cause the dough to open.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic, and let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

What other fillings can I use?

Popular alternatives include poppy seed filling, chocolate spread, or even sweetened cream cheese for a twist on the classic flavor.

Conclusion

This easy hamantaschen recipe is a delightful addition to any Purim celebration or cookie platter. With its buttery dough and customizable fillings, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you stick with traditional fillings like apricot and poppy seed or experiment with chocolate and nut spreads, these hamantaschen cookies are sure to impress.

We hope you enjoy this recipe! If you make it, let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore more of our traditional and holiday recipes on the blog. Happy baking!