Polish Kolaczki Cookies with Jam Filling are delicate, buttery pastries that have been a beloved treat in Polish households for generations. These cookies feature a tender cream cheese dough wrapped around a sweet and fruity jam filling, then baked to perfection.

Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, Kolaczki are perfect for festive occasions, afternoon tea, or as a sweet indulgence anytime. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the bright jam center makes them irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because the dough is rich yet tender, and the cookies are simple to make but look elegant. The combination of buttery pastry and sweet jam is perfectly balanced, making each bite a little piece of happiness. They also store well, making them ideal for gifting or preparing ahead for holidays.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Kolaczki are a must-try because they offer a perfect combination of textures and flavors: a flaky, buttery exterior with a sweet and tangy jam interior. They are traditional yet simple, and mastering them is a delight for any home baker looking to explore classic European treats.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories (Approx.): 180 per cookie
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Polish

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• ½ cup (150 g) fruit jam of choice (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry)
• Optional: zest of ½ lemon for extra flavor

For Finishing

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Dough
Cream the butter and cream cheese, then mix with flour and vanilla until a smooth dough forms.

Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.

Roll and Cut
Roll out the dough and cut into squares. Add jam in the center.

Fold and Seal
Fold corners toward the center over the jam.

Bake and Cool
Bake until lightly golden, then cool completely.

Dust with Sugar
Sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cookies before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Avoid overworking.

Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling makes it easier to handle.

Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.

Step 5: Cut the Dough
Cut the dough into 2½-inch squares.

Step 6: Add Filling
Place about ½ teaspoon of jam in the center of each square. If desired, sprinkle a little lemon zest over the jam.

Step 7: Fold the Cookies
Fold two opposite corners of each square toward the center over the jam, slightly overlapping. Gently press to seal.

Step 8: Bake
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Dust with Sugar
Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Kolaczki on a decorative plate for tea, coffee, or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or milk. They are also perfect for holiday platters or gift boxes.

Recipe Tips

• Chill the dough well to make it easier to handle.
• Use thick, high-quality jam to prevent it from running.
• Avoid overbaking; the cookies should remain pale and tender.
• Handle carefully, as the dough is delicate.
• Store in an airtight container once fully cooled.

Variations

Different Jam Flavors
Try apricot, raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, or cherry for variety.

Nutty Filling
Mix jam with finely chopped nuts for added texture.

Chocolate Twist
Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache under the jam before folding.

Mini Kolaczki
Make smaller squares for bite-sized cookies, ideal for parties.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Freeze unbaked folded cookies on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Special Equipment Needed

• Rolling pin
• Parchment-lined baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, but homemade dough yields the best flavor and texture.

Can I use other fillings besides jam?
Yes, cream cheese filling or Nutella can be used.

Do I have to dust with powdered sugar?
No, but it adds a traditional finish and sweetness.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, both dough and baked cookies can be prepared ahead. Chill dough and bake just before serving.

How can I prevent jam from leaking?
Use thick jam and avoid overfilling the squares.

Conclusion

Polish Kolaczki Cookies with Jam Filling are a delicate, buttery treat that is both traditional and versatile. With their tender cream cheese dough and sweet jam centers, they are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply enjoying with tea. Easy to prepare, customizable, and delightfully elegant, these cookies are a must-have for any home baker’s repertoire.