Kolacky

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Baking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yields: Approximately 36 cookies

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or prune are traditional choices)
• 1/2 cup ground nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Dough Preparation:

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add Flour:
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture, stirring until well combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
3. Chill Dough:
   • Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Assembly and Baking:

4. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Roll Out Dough:
   • On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into Squares:
   • Cut the rolled-out dough into squares, approximately 2 inches by 2 inches.
7. Add Filling:
   • Place a small amount of fruit preserves in the center of each square. Sprinkle a pinch of ground nuts over the preserves.
8. Fold and Seal:
   • Fold opposite corners of each square towards the center, creating a pinwheel shape. Press the edges to seal.
9. Repeat:
   • Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
10. Bake:
    • Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool:
    • Allow the Kolacky cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Dust with Confectioners’ Sugar:
    • Once cooled, dust the Kolacky with confectioners’ sugar for a finishing touch.
13. Serve:
    • Serve these delightful Kolacky cookies on a platter and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Note: Experiment with different fruit preserves and nuts for varied flavors. Store the Kolacky in an airtight container for up to a week. These cookies also freeze well for longer storage.