apricot pillow cookies

 

Introduction

Welcome to our delightful kitchen, where today we’re diving into the sweet and fruity world of apricot pillow cookies! These soft, fluffy cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With a lovely apricot filling nestled between tender dough, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy afternoon tea, or simply a sweet indulgence. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of making these delicious cookies in your own home!

What is Apricot Pillow Cookies?

Apricot pillow cookies are soft, chewy cookies filled with a luscious apricot filling. They are often characterized by their pillow-like shape, which comes from the way the dough is folded around the filling before baking. These cookies are typically dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a delicate and inviting appearance. The tangy sweetness of apricots balances perfectly with the buttery cookie dough, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

To bake a batch of scrumptious apricot pillow cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apricot preserves (or fresh apricots, pureed)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (optional, but helpful)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cookie cutter or knife
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions to make apricot pillow cookies:

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and continue to beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

2. Chill the Dough

Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out and shape.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

4. Roll Out the Dough

1. After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the dough into squares or circles, about 3 inches in size.

5. Add the Filling

Place a teaspoon of apricot preserves in the center of each dough square or circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the cookies to burst during baking.

6. Shape the Cookies

1. Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket, pinching the edges tightly to seal.
2. Place the filled cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.

7. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

8. Cool and Dust

1. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.
3. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To ensure your apricot pillow cookies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Chill the dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough hold its shape and makes it easier to handle.
• Don’t overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid exploding cookies.
• Watch your baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake to prevent burning.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and preserves will enhance the flavor of your cookies.

Variations

While apricot pillow cookies are delicious as they are, you can also try these creative variations:

• Different fillings: Substitute apricot preserves with other fruit preserves like raspberry, peach, or strawberry for a unique twist.
• Add spices: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for added warmth and flavor.
• Glaze the cookies: Instead of powdered sugar, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Apricot pillow cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Serve them on a dessert platter during a special occasion or holiday gathering.
• Add them to a gift box along with other homemade treats for a thoughtful gift.

Storage Instructions

To keep your apricot pillow cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per cookie (based on a recipe yielding 24 cookies):

• Calories: 90
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

FAQ

Can I use fresh apricots instead of preserves?

Yes, you can use fresh apricots! Simply puree them and sweeten to taste, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. If they are still pale, they likely need more time in the oven.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes! Chopped nuts can add a delightful crunch. Just mix them into the apricot filling before adding it to the cookies.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and a step-by-step guide to making apricot pillow cookies, it’s time to get baking! These cookies are not only a treat for yourself but also a wonderful gift or dessert for sharing with loved ones. With their lovely texture and sweet apricot flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!