What is the best apricot filling for Hamantaschen?

Apricot lekvar provides a smooth, rich filling, but fresh or canned apricots cooked down with sugar also work well.

Can I use canned apricots for Hamantaschen filling?

Yes. Drain, mash, and cook canned apricots with sugar until thick for a quick apricot filling recipe.

How long do Apricot Hamantaschen last?

Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for 3–4 days at room temperature.

Can I freeze Hamantaschen?

Yes, unbaked Hamantaschen can be frozen and baked later, or baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Apricot Hamantaschen Recipe – Easy & Delicious Dessert 2026

Description

Classic triangular pastries filled with sweet apricot jam or homemade apricot lekvar. Perfect for Purim or anytime you want a soft, buttery cookie with fruity filling. These Hamantaschen are easy to make, tender, and slightly crisp on the edges, with a sweet apricot center that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (makes ~24 Hamantaschen):

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Apricot Filling:

1 cup apricot jam, apricot lekvar, or homemade apricot filling (see notes for fresh, dried, or canned options)

For Decoration (Optional):

Powdered sugar for dusting
Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water) for shine

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, vanilla, and orange zest.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Hamantaschen

Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to ~¼-inch thickness.
Cut circles (~3 inches in diameter) using a cookie cutter or glass.
Place ~1 teaspoon of apricot filling in the center of each circle.
Fold three sides of the circle to form a triangle, pinching corners tightly to seal.

Step 3: Bake

Brush tops lightly with egg wash for a shiny finish.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cool completely on a wire rack. Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Apricot Filling Variations: Use fresh apricots cooked down with sugar, dried apricots blended with water, or canned apricots pureed.
Make Ahead: Dough can be prepared a day in advance; fillings can also be made ahead.
Mini Hamantaschen: Reduce dough and filling size for bite-sized treats.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cookie / Holiday Treat
Method: Baked / Filled / Hand-shaped
Cuisine: Jewish / American