Polish cookies are a staple of Eastern European cuisine, and for good reason. With their rich history and cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that Polish baking has produced some truly delicious treats. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern twists on classic flavors, there’s something for everyone in the world of Polish cookies. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 scrumptious Polish cookie recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re looking for a delicate pastry or a crunchy cookie, these traditional Polish treats are sure to impress. From classic Kolaczki Cookies to decadent Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, there’s something for everyone in this list of mouthwatering morsels. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of delicious Polish cookies!
Polish Kolaczki Cookies
Kolaczki are a classic Polish cookie that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. These delicate, crescent-shaped treats are traditionally filled with jam or nuts, making them a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Filling of your choice (e.g., jam, nuts, or chocolate chips)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
3. Gradually add flour and baking powder; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., crescents or rounds).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before filling and serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chrusciki Polish Angel Wings
Discover the sweet delight of these crispy, fried dough pastries filled with powdered sugar. A classic Polish treat that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Cut into long strips, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry dough strips for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes frying time)
Enjoy your delicious Chrusciki Polish Angel Wings!
Polish Honey Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a staple of Polish baking, flavored with the sweetness of honey and the warmth of spices. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these delicious treats to enjoy on their own or share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix honey, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
4. Add softened butter to the honey mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Beat in the egg.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Butter Cookies
These classic Polish cookies are a staple in many Eastern European households. With their buttery flavor and crumbly texture, they’re sure to become a favorite among cookie lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles, hearts).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Polish Gingerbread Cookies
Polish Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
Traditional Polish gingerbread cookies, also known as Pierniki, are a classic Christmas treat that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of honey. This recipe yields soft and chewy cookies with a delightful hint of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in honey and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Polish Thumbprint Cookies
These traditional Polish cookies are a sweet treat that combines the warmth of spices with the crunch of nuts and the sweetness of jam.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup jam of your choice (e.g. strawberry or apricot)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Use your thumb or a cookie cutter to create indentation in center of each cookie.
5. Place a small spoonful of jam into the indentation.
6. Fold the dough over the jam, forming a triangle or a square shape.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet before transferring to wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Polish Vanilla Crescents
These sweet and flaky pastries are a classic Polish treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With a simple dough recipe and a touch of vanilla, you’ll be hooked on these delicious crescents.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., crescents, rectangles).
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pastry.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Polish Chocolate Sandwich Cookies
Experience the rich flavors of Eastern Europe with these indulgent chocolate sandwich cookies, a classic Polish treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or rectangles).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before sandwiching with melted chocolate chips and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Poppy Seed Roll Cookies
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these traditional Polish cookies filled with the sweetness of poppy seeds and a hint of vanilla. These chewy treats are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Sprinkle with poppy seeds.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Polish Jam-Filled Cookies
Traditional Polish cookies filled with sweet jam, perfect for a taste of home or as a treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup jam (such as strawberry or apricot)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool before filling with jam.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Coconut Macaroons
These chewy cookies are a popular treat in Poland, often served at Christmas markets and gatherings. With their sweet coconut flavor and crunchy edges, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat butter and egg whites until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the coconut mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Polish Almond Shortbread Cookies
Experience the classic flavors of Poland with these tender, buttery cookies infused with toasted almonds and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in toasted almonds.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Polish Cinnamon Stars
Polish Cinnamon Stars, also known as Pierniki, are traditional Polish cookies that are a staple during the holiday season. These sweet treats are soft, fluffy, and infused with the warmth of cinnamon, making them a delightful addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in egg and cinnamon.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each star.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Hazelnut Cookies
A classic Polish treat that combines rich hazelnuts with sweet and crunchy cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, finely ground
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, hazelnuts, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Lemon Glazed Cookies
These cookies combine the brightness of lemon with the richness of butter and sugar, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to delight. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add lemon juice and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before glazing with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Polish Walnut Cookies
These traditional Polish cookies are a staple of every holiday season, with their rich flavor and crunchy texture. Made with ground walnuts and sweet spices, they’re perfect for snacking or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ground walnuts
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and walnuts.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour-walnut mixture, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Spiced Christmas Cookies
These traditional Polish cookies are a staple of the holiday season, filled with warm spices and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add honey, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Cream Cheese Cookies
Polish Cream Cheese Cookies: A Delightful Twist on Classic Shortbread
These buttery cookies infused with a hint of tanginess from cream cheese are a staple in many Polish households. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined.
- Beat in vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough between parchment paper or waxed paper to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet tradition of Polish baking with these 18 delicious cookie recipes. From classic favorites like Kolaczki and Chrusciki to creative twists on traditional treats, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making authentic Polish Honey Cookies or Butter Cookies, or opt for a little spice with Gingerbread or Cinnamon Stars. Whatever your taste, you’re sure to find inspiration in these tried-and-true recipes that showcase the best of Polish baking.
