Chocolate Hamantaschen

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Embark on a culinary journey this Purim with my irresistible Chocolate Hamantaschen recipe. These delectable triangular-shaped cookies boast a rich cocoa-infused dough that cradles a luscious white chocolate filling. The combination of velvety textures and indulgent flavors makes them the perfect treat to celebrate this joyous occasion.

chocolate hamantaschen cookies on a plate

Purim Cookies

Purim is the Jewish holiday celebrating the saving of the Jewish people from Haman, who planned to kill all the Jews. To Celebrate we bake hamantaschen cookies also knows as Purim cookies and send them in a mishloh manot (sending portion) to family and friends.

Chocolate filling for hamantaschen

Maybe you’ve never heard of hamantaschen cookies? These cookies are famous for their triangle shape and always contain some form filling. This time, because the dough has dark color, I wanted to use a filling that can be seen so I chose a white chocolate spread (In Israel also sometimes called "milk spread"), although you can use any spread you like, such as peanut butter, jelly, milk chocolate spread, Nutella etc.

Hamantaschen cookies are the traditional Purim dessert. The dough for these chocolate hamantaschen contains cocoa powder and makes the cookies chocolaty and yummy. (That’s all anyone wants to hear when it comes to cookies, right?!)

Helpful tips for the best chocolate hamantaschen cookies:

Chill the Dough Thoroughly

After shaping the dough into a disc and before rolling it out, ensure it spends ample time in the refrigerator. This not only helps with easier handling but also contributes to a flakier texture in the final hamantaschen.

Flour Your Surface and Rolling Pin

Prevent sticking by generously flouring both your work surface and rolling pin. This ensures the dough rolls out smoothly without tearing or becoming too sticky.

Maintain a Cool Environment

Keep the kitchen cool while working with the dough, especially when shaping the hamantaschen. A cooler environment helps the butter in the dough stay firm, resulting in a better texture during baking.

Work Quickly

Handle the dough efficiently to prevent it from becoming too soft. Work swiftly when cutting circles, adding filling, and shaping the hamantaschen to maintain the desired consistency.

Use Quality Cocoa and Ingredients

Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and white chocolate spread to enhance the flavor profile of your chocolate hamantaschen. Fresh and premium ingredients make a noticeable difference in the end product.

Experiment with Fillings

While the recipe suggests white chocolate spread, feel free to get creative with different fillings. Dark chocolate, fruit preserves, or even a dollop of nut butter can add exciting variations to your hamantaschen.

Don't Overfill

When adding the filling, be mindful not to overfill the hamantaschen. A teaspoon is a guideline; adding too much filling can cause the cookies to burst open during baking.

Freeze Before Baking

A brief stint in the freezer before baking helps the hamantaschen maintain their shape during the oven's heat. This step is crucial for achieving the characteristic triangular form.

Monitor Baking Time

Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. Ovens vary, and the exact baking time may differ. Check for a golden-brown color after around 10 minutes and adjust the time accordingly.

Let Them Cool

Allow the baked hamantaschen to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents any potential breakage.

adding white chocolate filling to the cookies

FAQS

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for later use?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chocolate hamantaschen dough in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows for convenient planning and time management.

Can I freeze the unbaked hamantaschen for later?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked hamantaschen on a tray. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can place them directly from the freezer to the preheated oven. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use different types of chocolate for the filling?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests white chocolate spread, feel free to experiment with various chocolates. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even a combination of different chocolates can provide unique flavor profiles.

My dough is too crumbly. What should I do?

If the dough is too crumbly, it might need a bit more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk at a time until the dough comes together. Be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it can affect the texture.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a non-dairy butter substitute. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the chocolate spread and any garnishes, are also dairy-free.

My hamantaschen opened up while baking. How can I prevent this?

To prevent hamantaschen from opening during baking, make sure not to overfill them. Additionally, ensure a proper seal when shaping the triangles. Press the edges firmly to secure the filling inside.

Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the filling?

Certainly! I added sprinkles but chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, and dried fruits like raisins or apricots can add delightful texture and flavor to the filling. Ensure the pieces are finely chopped to maintain the hamantaschen's shape.

How should I store the baked hamantaschen?

Store the cooled hamantaschen in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Other Purim recipes to try:

For vanilla hamantaschen, check out my recipe for vegan hamantaschen cookies. In addition I have other hamantaschen recipes to choose from- gluten free hamantaschen, apple pie hamantaschen, and even savory hamantaschen, check out my Purim recipe index to get them all.

Bake chocolate hamantaschen cookies today!

Indulge your senses and embark on a blissful culinary adventure by baking these Chocolate Hamantaschen right now! Picture it – a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of cocoa, a crumbly dough waiting to be shaped, and the anticipation of biting into a heavenly blend of rich chocolate and creamy white filling. With a simple yet decadent recipe that promises delightful triangles of joy, there's no reason to resist the temptation. The process is straightforward, and the result is a batch of exquisite treats that will elevate your Purim celebration to new heights. So, why wait? Let the sweet symphony of flavors enchant your taste buds and bring a burst of happiness to your home. Bake these delectable hamantaschen now, and savor the joy of creating something truly extraordinary!