Apricot Pillow Cookies

Apricot Pillow Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a rich, creamy filling with a tender cookie shell. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to festive gatherings. Their unique texture and sweet apricot flavor make them stand out. Plus, they are easy to make, ensuring that anyone can enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth delights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The combination of cream cheese and butter creates an incredibly soft cookie that simply dissolves in your mouth.
• Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual get-together, these cookies fit perfectly into any dessert spread.
• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results without stress.
• Delicious apricot flavor: The sweet apricot preserves offer a burst of fruity goodness in every bite, elevating the cookie experience.
• Family tradition: This recipe is passed down through generations, bringing a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Apricot Pillow Cookies, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the baking process and ensures your cookies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Wooden spoon
• Rolling pin
• Cookie sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes creaming the butter and cream cheese effortless, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin allows you to evenly flatten the dough to the desired thickness for consistent baking.
• Cookie sheet: Using an ungreased cookie sheet helps achieve a golden-brown finish without sticking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 3/4 cups flour (sifted)
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (soft to room temperature)
• 1 cup butter (soft to room temperature)

For the Filling

• 1 jar quality apricot preserves

How to Make Apricot Pillow Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the butter and cream cheese together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Stir in the lemon zest.
3. Gradually blend in the flour mixture with a wooden spoon until well combined. The dough will be sticky.
4. Form the dough into a ball and refrigerate it for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. After chilling, cut the dough into three pieces and turn each piece onto a floured surface.
2. Roll each piece out to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick and cut it into 3-inch squares.
3. Place 1 teaspoon of apricot preserves in the center of each square.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Brush the edges of each square with beaten egg whites.
2. Fold the corners of each square towards the center, covering the apricot filling, and squeeze seams together securely.
3. Brush with more egg whites and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.

Step 4: Bake

1. Arrange pillows on an ungreased cookie sheet about an inch apart.
2. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Allow cookies to cool on a rack before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Apricot Pillow Cookies that are sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Apricot Pillow Cookies

Apricot Pillow Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Pair these cookies with fresh strawberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Sliced Kiwi – The tartness of kiwi complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

• Espresso – Enjoy these cookies with a rich espresso for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
• Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the cookies and provide a comforting experience.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cupcakes – Add mini cupcakes to your dessert platter for variety and visual appeal.
• Chocolate Truffles – Dark chocolate truffles offer a decadent contrast to the flavors of Apricot Pillow Cookies.

How to Perfect Apricot Pillow Cookies

Creating the perfect Apricot Pillow Cookies requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape during baking, preventing spreading.
• Use Quality Preserves – Opt for high-quality apricot preserves to ensure rich flavor in each cookie.
• Measure Accurately – Use precise measurements for flour and butter to achieve the right texture in your dough.
• Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; remove them when they turn lightly golden for optimal taste.
• Avoid Overfilling – Use just enough apricot preserves to prevent overflow during baking, which keeps the cookies looking neat.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Pillow Cookies

When serving Apricot Pillow Cookies, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and freshness alongside these delectable treats.
3. Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of soft cheeses offers a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet cookies.
5. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cookies can add an indulgent touch.
6. Nut Mixture – Serve with a small bowl of mixed nuts for crunch and added texture alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apricot Pillow Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Boldly measure your ingredients: Incorrect measurements can lead to dry or overly sticky dough. Always use precise measurements for flour and butter.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Failing to refrigerate the dough can result in cookies that spread too much during baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Avoid overfilling: Using too much apricot preserves can cause the cookies to burst open. Stick to 1 teaspoon of filling for each square.
• Watch your baking time: Baking too long can lead to burnt edges. Keep an eye on the cookies and remove them once lightly browned.
• Use a floured surface: Not using enough flour when rolling out the dough can lead to sticking. Ensure your work surface is well-floured to prevent this.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apricot Pillow Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apricot Pillow Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apricot Pillow Cookies:

Can I use other fruit preserves instead of apricot?

Yes, you can substitute apricot with other fruit preserves like peach, raspberry, or strawberry for different flavors.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for a light golden color on the edges and a slight puffiness in the center. The cookies should not be overly browned.

Can I make Apricot Pillow Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill the cookies ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

What is the best way to store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Apricot Pillow Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them perfect for any occasion, and you can easily customize them with your favorite fruit preserves. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating these delightful treats!

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Apricot Pillow Cookies

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• Author: Aurora
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of Apricot Pillow Cookies, where a tender, buttery cookie shell cradles a luscious apricot filling. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet apricot flavor make them irresistible. With simple preparation steps, even novice bakers can create these charming treats without stress. Bring warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen with this cherished recipe passed down through generations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 3/4 cups flour (sifted)
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1 jar quality apricot preserves

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Instructions

1. Cream together butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.
2. In a separate bowl, sift flour and salt, then mix in lemon zest.
3. Gradually blend the flour mixture into the cream mixture until combined; refrigerate dough for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface, cut into squares, and place apricot preserves in the center.
5. Fold corners toward the center to seal and brush with egg whites; sprinkle with sugar.
6. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For variations, you can use other fruit preserves like peach or raspberry for different flavors. Ensure accurate measurements for best results and avoid overfilling to keep cookies intact during baking.