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Kiffles (Hungarian Kifli Cookies)

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Delicate Hungarian kifli cookies with a buttery, flaky dough wrapped around sweet walnut or fruit fillings, perfect for holidays and special occasions .

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 40–50 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Hungarian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 200 g unsalted butter, softened
  • 200 g cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup finely ground walnuts
  • 1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: apricot jam
  • Optional: poppy seed filling
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add sugar and salt, then gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Divide dough into four portions, flatten into discs, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Prepare filling by heating walnuts, sugar, and milk in a saucepan until slightly thickened; stir in vanilla and cool.
  5. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out one portion of dough thinly (2–3 mm) on a floured surface and cut into triangles.
  7. Place filling on the wide end of each triangle and roll into crescent shapes.
  8. Arrange cookies on baking sheet with tips tucked underneath.
  9. Bake for 18–22 minutes until lightly golden.
  10. Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar while warm.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential for easier handling and flaky texture.
  • Do not overbake; cookies should remain pale.
  • You can substitute fillings like apricot jam or poppy seed.
  • Add lemon zest to dough for a citrus twist.
  • Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months with parchment between layers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/kiffles-hungarian-kifli-cookies/