Apricot Pillow Cookies

Apricot Pillow Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweetness and texture. These cookies are ideal for various occasions, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. With their soft dough enveloping a luscious apricot filling, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. The unique combination of flavors and the melt-in-your-mouth experience make these cookies a standout choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of any skill level.
• Delicious Flavor – The creamy filling paired with the buttery dough creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Treat – These cookies can be enjoyed as a snack or served as a charming dessert at your next gathering.
• Family Tradition – Passed down through generations, this recipe holds a special place in many hearts, adding nostalgia to every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make Apricot Pillow Cookies, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer – This tool makes it easy to cream butter and cream cheese together, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for mixing dry ingredients into the wet ones without overworking the dough.
• Rolling pin – Helps achieve the perfect thickness for the dough, which is crucial for even baking.

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 (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup butter (softened to room temperature)

For the Filling:

• 1 jar quality apricot preserves

How to Make Apricot Pillow Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream together the butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy.
2. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Stir in the lemon zest.
3. Gradually blend the flour mixture into the creamed mixture using a wooden spoon until well combined. The dough will be sticky.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate 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.
3. Cut into 3-inch squares using a sharp knife or cookie cutter.
4. Place 1 teaspoon of apricot preserves in the center of each square.
5. Brush edges of each square with beaten egg whites, then fold corners toward the center to cover the filling. Squeeze seams together gently.

Step 3: Bake Your Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Place cookie pillows on an ungreased cookie sheet about an inch apart.
3. Brush tops with remaining egg whites and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
4. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

Step 4: Cool and Enjoy

• Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are sure to become your new favorite!

How to Serve Apricot Pillow Cookies

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

With a Cup of Tea

• A warm cup of herbal or green tea pairs beautifully with the sweetness of these cookies, creating a comforting afternoon snack.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruits and nuts for an elegant dessert spread. It adds color and texture to your table.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve the cookies with a side of lightly sweetened whipped cream for dipping. The creamy texture complements the apricot filling perfectly.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey over the cookies enhances their sweetness and adds a lovely floral note that pairs well with apricot.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Enjoy these cookies warm, served atop scoops of vanilla or almond ice cream. The contrast of temperatures is truly delightful.

How to Perfect Apricot Pillow Cookies

Making perfect Apricot Pillow Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and shape into pillows without sticking.
• Use Quality Preserves: Opt for high-quality apricot preserves for the best flavor. This will make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid spills while baking. A teaspoon per cookie is ideal for keeping them neat.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; remove them when they are golden brown for optimal texture.
• Experiment with Zest: Try adding different citrus zests like orange or lime for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Pillow Cookies

Apricot Pillow Cookies can be complemented with various sides that enhance their flavor and make your dessert experience even better. Here are some delightful pairings:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that balance the sweetness with their creamy and tangy flavors.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that offers texture and tartness.
4. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into rich chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that elevates their flavor.
5. Nut Mix – A blend of roasted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, creating an interesting contrast with the sweet cookies.
6. Herbal Tea Selection – Offer a variety of herbal teas that can complement the apricot flavors and enhance relaxation during dessert time.
7. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness while introducing coconut’s rich flavor profile.
8. Mini Cheesecakes – Small cheesecakes provide a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with fruity desserts like Apricot Pillow Cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Baking without proper measurements: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy. This will help maintain the right balance of ingredients.
• Overfilling the cookies: Be cautious with apricot preserves to prevent leaks. Stick to 1 teaspoon per square for perfect results.
• Not refrigerating the dough: Allowing the dough to chill is essential for better handling. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
• Skipping the egg white wash: Brushing with egg whites adds shine and helps sugar stick. Don’t skip this step for that perfect finish.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. An accurate temperature is key for even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apricot Pillow Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apricot Pillow Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apricot Pillow Cookies?

Apricot Pillow Cookies are soft, fluffy cookie squares filled with sweet apricot preserves, providing a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Can I use other fruit preserves?

Yes! You can substitute apricot preserves with any other fruit jam or preserve of your choice, such as peach or raspberry, for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly browned around the edges. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Bake fresh cookies whenever you desire!

Final Thoughts

These Apricot Pillow Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them with different fillings or toppings. They make a perfect treat for any occasion, so give this recipe a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Apricot Pillow Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Apricot Pillow Cookies, a sweet treat that perfectly balances rich flavors and a soft, fluffy texture. These cookies feature a creamy dough enveloping a luscious apricot filling, making them an irresistible choice for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a hint of citrus from the lemon zest that brightens the overall experience. Easy to make and versatile enough to please any palate, these cookies are sure to become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether served with tea or as part of an elegant spread, Apricot Pillow Cookies are bound to impress.

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Ingredients

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• 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 apricot preserves

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Instructions

1. Cream together butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. In another bowl, sift flour and salt; stir in lemon zest.
3. Gradually blend the flour mixture into the creamed mixture until combined; form into a ball and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick; cut into 3-inch squares.
5. Place 1 teaspoon of apricot preserves in the center of each square; fold corners toward the center and pinch seams together.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for about 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg