Apricot Pillow Cookies

Apricot Pillow Cookies are a delightful treat that melt in your mouth, perfect for any occasion. Their soft and creamy texture combined with the sweet apricot filling makes them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Plus, they carry a rich family tradition passed down through generations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The combination of cream cheese and butter creates an incredibly soft cookie that is hard to resist.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip these up with ease.
• Versatile occasions: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
• Delicious apricot flavor: The apricot preserves add a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the dough.
• Family tradition: Bring a piece of history into your kitchen with this recipe passed down through generations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right equipment will make your experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and cream cheese together for that perfect texture.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to achieve uniform cookies.
• Cookie sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring your cookies come out perfectly browned.

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 butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth.
2. In another bowl, sift together flour and salt, then stir in lemon zest.
3. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients with a wooden spoon until well mixed. The dough should be sticky.
4. Form the dough into a ball and refrigerate it for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Cut the chilled dough into 3 pieces.
2. On a floured surface, roll each piece out to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cut into 3-inch squares.

Step 3: Add Filling and Shape Cookies

1. Place 1 teaspoon of apricot preserves in the center of each square.
2. Brush the edges of each square with egg whites that have been beaten lightly.
3. Fold the corners of each square toward the center to cover the filling, squeezing seams together firmly.
4. Brush tops with egg whites again and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.

Step 4: Bake Cookies

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 as a sweet ending to any meal or as a special treat during your day!

How to Serve Apricot Pillow Cookies

Serving Apricot Pillow Cookies is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, here are some creative ways to present these cookies.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Fresh strawberries add a vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Citrus Segments – Oranges or mandarins provide a juicy burst that complements the apricot flavor beautifully.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Earl Grey Tea – The floral notes of Earl Grey pair well with the buttery taste of the cookies.
• Espresso – A shot of espresso enhances the cookie’s flavors and makes for a sophisticated pairing.

On a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies – Combine Apricot Pillow Cookies with other favorites like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin for variety.
• Decorative Garnishes – Use edible flowers or mint leaves to elevate the presentation on your dessert table.

How to Perfect Apricot Pillow Cookies

To ensure that your Apricot Pillow Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these simple tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately – Sift your flour before measuring to avoid adding too much, which can make the dough tough.
• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough as instructed; this helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Don’t Overfill – Use only 1 teaspoon of apricot preserves per cookie to avoid leakage while baking.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies. They should be lightly browned but not darkened, as overbaking can dry them out.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Pillow Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Apricot Pillow Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that complements the soft cookies.
3. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity, balancing the rich flavors of the cookies.
4. Cheese Plate – Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a wholesome side that pairs wonderfully with dessert.
6. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each cookie for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apricot Pillow Cookies, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Overfilling with preserves: Using too much apricot preserves can cause leaks during baking. Stick to 1 teaspoon per square to ensure they hold their shape.
• Rolling dough too thin: If the dough is rolled out too thin, the cookies may become crispy instead of soft and pillowy. Aim for a thickness of 1/8 to 1/4 inch.
• Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives your cookies a lovely golden color and helps sugar stick. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful finish.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and proper texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Apricot Pillow Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating Apricot Pillow Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apricot Pillow Cookies?

Apricot Pillow Cookies are soft, delightful treats filled with sweet apricot preserves, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Can I use other fillings besides apricot?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fruit preserves or even chocolate spreads to customize your Apricot Pillow Cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies are ready when they are 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 or freeze it until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These Apricot Pillow Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different fillings or flavors. Their soft texture and delightful taste make them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth treats!