# Hamantaschen with Poppy Seed Filling – The Perfect Treat for Purim
## Introduction
Embrace the joyous festival of Purim with delicious Hamantaschen. They are traditional Jewish cookies known for their unique triangular shape and tasty fillings. The recipe introduced here combines a fantastic sweet dough with a delectable poppy seed filling.
## Why Make this Recipe
Choosing to make Hamantaschen with Poppy Seed Filling introduces you to the world of traditional Jewish pastries that holds significant roots from Jewish history. Plus, it’s simple enough to make even for a beginner, and it guarantees freshly baked treats straight from your kitchen.
## How to Make Hamantaschen with Poppy Seed Filling
## Ingredients:
### For the Dough:
– 2/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 to 4 tbsp milk (as needed)
### For the Poppy Seed Filling:
– 1 cup poppy seeds
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
## Directions :
### Prepare the Dough:
1. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy in a bowl.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until incorporated.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, adding milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
### Make the Poppy Seed Filling:
1. Combine poppy seeds and milk in a saucepan.
2. Simmer over low heat until the seeds are tender and the mixture thickened, this should take about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in honey, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla, then allow it to cool.
### Assemble and Bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Cut out circles using a 3-inch cookie cutter.
4. Place a teaspoon of poppy seed filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold up the edges to form a triangular shape, ensuring to pinch the corners to seal.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
## How to Serve Hamantaschen
Serve these delightful Hamantaschen as a dessert after a festive meal or enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
## How to Store Hamantaschen
Store your Hamantaschen in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to five days.
## Tips to Make Hamantaschen
– To prevent the dough from sticking, make sure your surface is well floured when rolling it out.
– Don’t overfill the cookies; a teaspoon of filling is more than enough.
## Variations (if any)
In place of poppy seed filling, you can use other traditional Hamantaschen fillings such as prune or apricot jam.
## FAQs
### Q: Can I freeze the Hamantaschen?
A: Yes, Hamantaschen can be stored in a freezer-safe bag and frozen for up to three months.
### Q: Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use refrigerated sugar cookie dough.
### Q: What else can I use as a filling for Hamantaschen?
A: Besides poppy seed, prune, and apricot, you can also use red raspberry or strawberry jam as a filling.