Hungarian Cookie Treasures

Hungarian Cookie Treasures are delightful, buttery treats filled with sweet fruit preserves, nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar. These traditional cookies are perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want a touch of old-world charm on your dessert table. With their tender dough and flavorful fillings, they’re sure to become a family favorite!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Small cookie cutters or a knife

Ingredients Overview

• Butter: The key to a rich and tender cookie dough.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the dough, enhancing the flavor.
• Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies.
• Eggs: Bind the dough and give it a light texture.
• Fillings: Traditional fillings include fruit preserves, chopped nuts, or cinnamon sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

• In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in 2 large egg yolks, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup sour cream until well combined.
• Gradually mix in 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt until a soft dough forms.
• Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Roll Out the Dough

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
• Cut the dough into small squares, circles, or your desired shapes using cookie cutters or a knife.

3. Add the Fillings

• Place a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) of fruit preserves, chopped nuts, or a mixture of cinnamon and sugar in the center of each piece of dough.
• Fold the dough over the filling to create a crescent or triangle shape. Pinch the edges to seal.

4. Bake the Cookies

• Arrange the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
• Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Once cooled, sprinkle the cookies generously with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Recipe Tips

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents it from sticking.
• Sealing the Edges: Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to keep the fillings from oozing out during baking.
• Variety: Use different fillings for a colorful and flavorful assortment of cookies.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of milk for a cozy treat. They also make a lovely addition to a holiday cookie platter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling.

What fillings work best?
Traditional fillings include apricot, raspberry, or plum preserves, as well as chopped walnuts or a cinnamon-sugar mixture.

How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Assorted fillings: fruit preserves, chopped nuts, or cinnamon sugar
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Cream butter and sugar, then add egg yolks, vanilla, and sour cream. Mix in flour and salt to form a dough. Chill for 1 hour.
2. Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and add a small amount of filling.
3. Fold and seal the edges, then brush with beaten egg.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes.
5. Cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy these Hungarian Cookie Treasures—a sweet and satisfying nod to traditional European baking!