Kolaczki Cookies

By:

Marry

Published:

November 26, 2025

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Kolaczki cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many, often evoking memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. These delicate, buttery cookies are filled with a variety of fruit jams, creating a delightful treat that’s both sweet and savory. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, the charm of Kolaczki cookies will captivate you. The process may seem a bit involved, but trust me—it’s all worth it! Picture yourself savoring these tender, flaky cookies fresh out of the oven, or sharing them at a gathering where they’ll be sure to impress. So grab your apron and let’s get started on creating these delicious Kolaczki cookies that will tickle your taste buds and warm your soul.

Why This Recipe Works

One of the best aspects of Kolaczki cookies is the cream cheese dough. It serves as the foundation, giving the cookies a tender and flaky texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, by using different fruit jams, you’re able to customize these cookies to suit your taste. Imagine the sweet notes of raspberry or the tang of apricot, each bite bursting with flavor. This balance of sweet and savory transforms each cookie from ordinary to something truly special, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Kolaczki Cookies

You’ll love these cookies for several reasons! First, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a treat just for yourself. Each bite is a delightful trip down memory lane, showcasing traditions that have been passed down through generations. Their beautiful presentation, with delicate shapes and vibrant fillings, makes them visually stunning. They not only taste incredible but also make for a memorable dessert that your family and friends will surely remember.

Ingredients for Kolaczki Cookies

You’ll need a handful of simple ingredients to bring these cookies to life:

1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened to room temperature
8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
½ teaspoon salt
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
3 tablespoons strawberry jam (or raspberry, apricot, etc.)
Water (for sealing the edges)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Extra flour (for rolling out dough)

Preparing the Kolaczki Dough

Mix Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the softened butter and cream cheese. Using a hand mixer, beat them at medium speed until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This is the first step to achieving that tender texture in your cookies.

Incorporate Extract and Salt

Next, add either vanilla or almond extract along with the salt. Blend everything together until it’s well combined. The extract adds a lovely depth of flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the filling.

Add Flour Gradually

Now it’s time to add the flour! Do this gradually, one cup at a time. Remember to scrape the sides of the bowl to mix everything thoroughly. It’s essential to avoid overmixing—just aim for a smooth blend.

Chill the Dough

Shape your dough into a rough square, about 8 inches by 8 inches and about ¼ inch thick. Wrap this in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling the dough is key to making it easier to roll out later.

Rolling and Shaping the Kolaczki Cookies

Prepare the Oven and Surface

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Dust your work surface lightly with about 1/8 cup of powdered sugar to help prevent sticking.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough is chilled, it’s time to unwrap it and place it on your prepared surface. Divide the dough in half, keeping one portion covered and returning it to the refrigerator. Roll out the remaining dough to a thickness of 1/8 to ¼ inch.

Cut the Dough into Squares

Next, trim the edges into an even square shape. Then, cut the dough into 2 ½ inches by 2 ½ inches squares. Arrange these squares neatly on your prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them for spreading.

Filling and Folding the Kolaczki Cookies

Add Filling to Each Square

Now for the fun part! Place about ½ teaspoon of your chosen jam filling in the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill or it might ooze out during baking.

Fold the Cookies

Grab a small bowl of water. Dab the underside of one corner of each square with water, fold it over the filling, and then bring the opposite corner over the first. They should overlap by about 1 inch. Repeat this for each square until they’re all filled and folded.

Baking the Kolaczki Cookies

Bake

Place your filled cookies in the preheated oven. Bake them for about 12-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn just golden. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake!

Cool and Dust

Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes. Then, dust them generously with powdered sugar before serving. This adds that final touch of sweetness and helps them look beautiful.

Serving Suggestions

These Kolaczki cookies shine when served alongside coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings. They also make a fantastic addition to holiday cookie trays, providing a festive touch. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert experience, try pairing them with fresh fruit!

Tips for Success

Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened fully to create a smooth dough.
Chill the dough for the right consistency during rolling.
Keep a little flour handy while rolling out to prevent sticking.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! Experiment with different jam flavors or even try chocolate filling. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free flour. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding citrus zest to the dough.

Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to bake later, freeze unbaked squares for up to three months. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Pairing Ideas

Enhance your Kolaczki cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination. During colder months, pairing them with rich hot chocolate or spiced cider adds a cozy touch.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A1: You can, but keep in mind that it may yield a less flaky texture.

Q2: How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
A2: Always dust your work surface with powdered sugar and ensure the dough is well chilled.

Q3: Can I use homemade jam?
A3: Yes! Homemade jam adds a personal touch and can elevate the flavors.

Q4: How long will the cookies stay fresh?
A4: Kolaczki cookies remain fresh for about one week in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q5: What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
A5: You can use regular granulated sugar, but the texture will differ slightly.

Kolaczki cookies are not only delicious but also a beautiful way to celebrate tradition. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create these mouthwatering cookies that will surely impress anyone who tries them. So gather your loved ones, bake a batch, and enjoy the warmth and happiness that these cookies bring. Happy baking!