As Purim approaches, it's time to break free from the sweet tradition and embrace a savory twist on the classic Hamantaschen with my Pizza Hamantaschen Cookies! In the spirit of Purim, where joy and revelry take center stage, I invite you to embark on a culinary adventure with this unique recipe. The fusion of pizza goodness and the symbolic triangular form of Hamantaschen creates a treat that's not only visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious.
Purim foods
When Purim is coming it is time for some hamantaschen cookies. Instead of the traditional cookies that everyone makes for the holiday, I thought I would give mine a twist! Everyone loves pizza, in any shape or size, with different toppings and cheeses - pizza is universal. So why not make Pizza Hamantaschen? It’s the best of both worlds.
How to make pizza cookies
To create the pizza filling, I used shredded mozzarella cheese and finely chopped tomatoes (also known as polpa). I used this brand and mixed the tomatoes with the cheese and added a small teaspoon for each cookie. Don’t be tempted to add a lot of filling, the hamantaschen will open up and you will only end up with mini pizza flat cookies. Trust me, it happened to me when I tested the recipe.
These pizza hamantaschen have a hard cookie dough rather then a soft dough like you have in a regular pizza. The cookies are a bit chewy and flaky and with the pizza filling they are the best savory bite to add to your Purim celebrations.
To add even more flavor, I added sliced olives. You can also add any other pizza topping you like, the ball is in your court.
The recipe yields 18 cookies approximately, it all depends on the size that you make them.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Hamantaschen Cookies:
Chill the Dough Thoroughly
After shaping the dough into a disc, allow it to rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. This ensures a firmer, more manageable dough that's easier to roll out and shape.
Flour for Easy Rolling
When rolling out the chilled dough, sprinkle a bit of flour on the surface to prevent sticking. This helps achieve a smooth and uniform thickness.
Precision in Filling
Use a teaspoon to measure and distribute the pizza filling evenly. Overfilling might lead to difficulty sealing the edges, so stick to a moderate amount.
Seal the Edges Well
To prevent the filling from leaking during baking, ensure that the edges of the triangular dough are tightly sealed. Press down firmly with your fingers to create a secure seal.
Experiment with Flavors
While the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and olives is delightful, feel free to get creative with your fillings. Add your favorite pizza toppings or experiment with different cheeses for a personalized touch.
Watch the Baking Time
Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. Since they are relatively small, they can quickly go from golden to overdone. Aim for a light golden color on the edges.
Cool Completely
Allow the Pizza Hamantaschen to cool completely at room temperature before serving. This helps the flavors settle and the texture to reach its optimum deliciousness.
FAQS
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After shaping it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows for convenient planning and time management.
Absolutely! Freeze the dough in a well-wrapped package for up to one month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling and shaping.
Ensure a proper seal by pressing the edges of the dough triangles firmly together. Additionally, avoid overfilling, as this can lead to leakage. A well-sealed edge is key to preventing filling spillage.
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Add your favorite pizza toppings such as peppers or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses to create unique flavor combinations.
Yes, you can prepare Pizza Hamantaschen ahead of time. Bake and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to regain their crispiness.
Yes, you can make the dough by hand. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the cold butter into the flour until it reaches a crumbly texture. Then add the egg and water and mix until the dough forms.
While the triangular shape is traditional for Hamantaschen, you can experiment with different shapes if you prefer. Just ensure that the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them for a more extended period, consider freezing the cookies in a well-sealed container.
Yes, you can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the cookies soggy.
Other Cookie recipes to try:
If you are looking for more hamantaschen recipes and other options to fill your mishloah manot (sending portions) with, check out my Purim recipe index.
Bake pizza hamantaschen cookies today!
With their irresistible aroma and savory goodness, these Pizza Hamantaschen are sure to become a highlight of your Purim celebration. Share these triangular delights with friends and family, and may your Purim be filled with joy, laughter, and delicious moments. Now, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and join me in crafting these savory delights that are bound to steal the spotlight at your Purim gathering. Let's dive into the delightful process of creating Pizza Hamantaschen—bringing together the cherished tradition of Purim with the comfort and flavor of everyone's favorite Italian dish! So, have a hamantaschen and Happy Purim!
Pizza Hamantaschen Cookies
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup (150 grams) cold cubed butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoon cold water
For the filling:
- ½ cup finely chopped tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or other hard cheese
- Handful sliced olives
Instructions
- In a blender bowl, blend the flour, salt, and butter until it becomes a crumbly mixture.
- Add the egg and water. Continue to blend until the dough starts to unify.
- Shape the dough into a disc-shape on baking paper and put it in the refrigerator to rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat the oven to 180°C / 350°F with the fan.
- In a mixing bowl, mix the mozzarella and finely chopped tomato.
- Take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface.
- Use a glass or a round cookie cutter to cut circles out of the dough.
- Fill each dough circle with 1 teaspoon of filling and close the dough into triangular-shaped cookies.
- Add olives or the other flavor you are using.
- Place the cookies on a baking tray.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes.
- Cool at room temperature.
- Have a hamantaschen and Happy Purim!
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