If there’s one cookie that screams Purim, it’s the delightful, triangular Hamantaschen! These buttery, jam-filled pastries aren’t just delicious—they’re deeply symbolic, representing the hat (or pockets, depending on the story) of the infamous Haman, the villain of the Purim story.
Whether you prefer them stuffed with apricot, raspberry, chocolate, poppy seed, or Nutella, these festive cookies are a must-have for Purim celebrations. Plus, they’re super fun to bake—especially with family and friends!
Let’s get rolling (literally) and bake up some Hamantaschen for Purim! 🎭
Hamantaschen Recipe 🍪✨
Ingredients (Makes about 24 cookies)
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk (or orange juice for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional, but adds a nice touch!)
For the Filling:
- ½ cup apricot jam, raspberry jam, or prune butter (lekvar)
- ½ cup Nutella, chocolate spread, or poppy seed filling
- (Get creative with fillings—you can even try peanut butter & jelly!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, use a mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the butter mixture, beating until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).
Step 2: Roll & Cut the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
- Using a round cookie cutter (or a drinking glass), cut out 3-inch circles.
Step 3: Fill & Shape
- Place 1 teaspoon of your favorite filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold up the sides to form a triangle, pinching the corners together but leaving some filling visible in the center.
Step 4: Bake & Enjoy!
- Arrange the Hamantaschen on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Purim Fun: Share & Gift! 🎁
Hamantaschen aren’t just a treat—they’re part of the Purim tradition of giving Mishloach Manot (gift baskets filled with goodies). Wrap up a batch, add some chocolates and a festive note, and spread the joy to friends and family!
Whether you’re making them for fun, for family, or for a Purim party, Hamantaschen are a sweet way to celebrate the miracle of Purim—one delicious bite at a time! 🥳🎭
Chag Purim Sameach! 🎉🍪
