Homemade Kolacky Cookies

Bite into the delicate crumb of our Homemade Kolacky Cookies and let each bite transport you to a quaint European bakery. These tender pastries, with their rich cream cheese dough and sweet filling, are a timeless treat that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Whether you choose the brightness of apricot or the deep sweetness of berry, these cookies are a testament to the art of baking and the joy of sharing.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), room temperature
• 6 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• Your choice of pastry filling (apricot, raspberry, prune, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Dough Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened butter and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add flour to the creamed mixture, working the dough with your hands as it thickens.
2. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This relaxes the gluten and makes the dough easier to work with.
3. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C) to preheat.
4. Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares for uniform cookies.
5. Fill and Shape: Place a small dollop of your chosen pastry filling on the diagonal of each square. Then, lovingly fold over two opposing corners, pressing them gently to seal.
6. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the filled cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are a lovely golden hue.
7. Final Flourish: Let the cookies cool slightly, then dust them with a whisper of powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

Plating Suggestion: Serve these Kolacky cookies on a vintage platter for an authentic touch, perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet finale to a family meal.