👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dough:
- In a food processor (or using a pastry cutter), combine flour, butter, cream cheese, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Pulse or cut the mixture until it forms a coarse, crumbly texture.
- Add the vanilla extract and pulse again to bring the dough together into a ball.
- If it feels too dry, add 1-2 tbsp of cold water.
- Divide the dough into 3 equal portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to chill and firm up.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling:
- For jam-filled kiffles, simply stir the jam a bit to loosen it if it’s too thick. You can also add finely chopped walnuts to the jam for extra texture.
- For poppy seed filling, grind the poppy seeds in a blender or food processor and mix them with 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup milk until you get a spreadable consistency.
- For chocolate hazelnut filling, just have it ready to spoon directly onto the dough once rolled out.
3️⃣ Roll Out the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove one portion of dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into 8 wedges (like slicing a pizza).
- Add about 1 tsp of filling (jam, poppy seed paste, or chocolate) to the wide end of each wedge.
- Roll each wedge from the wider end to the point, forming a small crescent shape.
- Place each kiffle on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
4️⃣ Bake the Kiffles:
- Bake the kiffles in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them so they don’t over-brown.
- Once baked, remove the kiffles from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
5️⃣ Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- After they cool slightly, dust the kiffles with powdered sugar for that signature look and extra sweetness.
✨ Serving & Storing Tips
- Serving: Kiffles are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They also freeze very well! Simply place the kiffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then store them in a freezer bag or container for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and they’ll be just as good as when they were first baked.
- Gift Idea: Kiffles make a wonderful homemade gift! Arrange them in a festive box and give them to loved ones during the holidays or special occasions.
💬 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich, buttery dough that melts in your mouth with every bite.
- Customizable fillings — Choose from classic fruit jams, poppy seeds, or chocolate!
- Perfect for any occasion — Whether it’s a holiday gathering, tea time, or just a snack to enjoy with coffee, these kiffles never disappoint.
- Traditional and nostalgic — This Hungarian pastry is a family favorite passed down for generations, and now you can make it in your own kitchen!
👩🍳 Have you made Hungarian Kiffles before? What’s your favorite filling? Let me know in the comments!
These kiffles are not only a delicious treat but also a wonderful way to bring a bit of Hungarian tradition to your table. Enjoy baking these tender, flaky pastries and share them with your loved ones!