How to Make Perfect Hamantaschen

Hamantaschen are traditional triangular cookies enjoyed during Purim, filled with sweet fillings like jam, chocolate, or poppy seed. These delicious pastries are fun to make and customize, whether you prefer a classic or creative twist. Follow this simple recipe to bake the perfect batch of homemade hamantaschen!

Ingredients

• 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 3/4 cup white sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp. milk (or other non-dairy milk if making this parve)

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 tsp. baking powder

• 1/4 tsp. salt

For the Filling (Choose One or More!):

• Fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, strawberry)

• Nutella or chocolate spread

• Poppy seed filling

• Sweetened cream cheese

Directions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

2. Add the butter and sugar together mix until the texture is smooth

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, vanilla extract, and milk.

4. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to make it easier to roll out.

   
   

2. Roll & Cut

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.

3. Use a round cookie cutter or glass (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.

   
   

3. Fill & Shape

1. Place ½ teaspoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill!

2. Fold the dough into a triangle by pinching three sides together, leaving a small opening in the center.

3. Gently press the edges to seal, making sure the corners stay closed while baking.

4. Use egg white wash to help stick together, preventing them from opening up in the oven.

5. Place baking sheet with cookies back in fridge for 15 minutes so dough keeps it shape

   
   

4. Bake & Enjoy!

1. Place the hamantaschen on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

2. Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying.

   
   

Tips for the Best Hamantaschen:

✔ Chill the dough to prevent spreading while baking.✔ Don’t overfill—too much filling can cause them to open up.✔ Pinch the edges firmly so the triangles hold their shape.✔ Experiment with fillings—try peanut butter, lemon curd, or even caramel!

Hamantaschen are a fun and meaningful treat to share during Purim, or anytime you want a delicious homemade cookie. Happy baking! 🥄✨