Perfect Cottage Cheese Cookies: Homemade Marzipan Filling

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

400 grams (14 ounces) full-fat cottage cheese
160 grams (5.5 ounces) butter
280 grams (10 ounces) flour
10 grams (0.5 ounce) baking powder
40-50 grams (1.5 ounces) powdered sugar

For Homemade Marzipan:

200 grams (7 ounces) almond flour
100 grams (3.5 ounces) powdered sugar
20-30 grams (1 ounce) water (use rum, brandy, or strong liqueur if preferred)
any aromatic essence (like orange)

Equipment

Mixing Bowl:
Ensure it's large enough to mix all your ingredients without spilling. For an easier cleanup, use a bowl with a wide rim.
Refrigerator:
Chill the dough to make handling and shaping easier. An organized fridge with ample space will make this step a breeze.
Rolling Pin:
Smooth and even rolling is key. Opt for a non-stick rolling pin to prevent the dough from sticking.
Cookie Cutter:
A simple round shape works best. For fun variations, try using different shapes.
Baking Sheet:
A non-stick baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper ensures easy removal of cookies.
Cookie Press:
This tool helps create uniform cookies with beautiful patterns. Ensure it's clean and functioning well for the best results.

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

Mix all the cookie ingredients together.

Ensure the butter is soft for easy mixing.

The dough will be pleasant to handle and quick to mix.

Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Make the Marzipan:

Combine all the marzipan ingredients.

Shape the mixture into a 'log' for easier handling.

Step 3

Assemble and Bake:

Remove the dough from the refrigerator, roll it out and cut into circles.

Slice the marzipan log, roll into balls, and place each ball on a dough circle - wrap the dough around the marzipan and press with a cookie press.

Place the cookies on a baking sheet and optionally brush with egg.

Bake for 20-25 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

Servings

Looking for serving ideas for your delightful marzipan-filled cookies? We've got some scrumptious suggestions for you! 🌟 **With Tea or Coffee:** Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The almond flavor of the marzipan beautifully complements a warm, aromatic brew. ☕ **Gift Boxes:** Pack these cookies in a charming box and gift them to friends and family. A handwritten note adds a lovely personal touch. 🎁 **Dessert Platter:** Create a stunning dessert platter by adding a variety of cookies, some fresh fruits, and a few chocolate pieces. It's perfect for parties or family gatherings. 🎉 **Ice Cream Sandwich:** Place a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert. The combination of soft cookies and creamy ice cream is irresistible. 🍨 **Holiday Treats:** Add these cookies to your holiday baked goods list. They make delightful additions to Christmas or Easter celebrations, bringing extra cheer and nostalgia. 🎄🐣 Choose a serving idea that suits your occasion and enjoy each bite!

Variations

Looking for a gluten-free or vegan twist on these classic marzipan-filled cookies? We've got you covered! 🌱 **Gluten-Free Variation:** - **Flour:** Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - **Baking Powder:** Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. **Vegan Variation:** - **Butter:** Use a plant-based butter substitute. - **Cookie Dough:** Ensure that any additional ingredients used are vegan-friendly. - **Marzipan:** Substitute the water in the marzipan with a vegan-friendly liquid like almond milk, and use a vegan almond essence. These variations are easy to implement and keep the delicious essence of the cookies intact!

Faq

Why does my dough feel too sticky?
Make sure your butter is not too soft and that you have enough flour. If it’s still too sticky, try chilling the dough for a bit longer.
Can I use store-bought marzipan?
Absolutely! Store-bought marzipan works fine and can save you some time.
How can I ensure my marzipan balls are evenly sized?
For uniform marzipan balls, use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to measure out even amounts before rolling.
Can I skip the resting time for the dough?
Resting the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to handle. Skipping this step might make the dough stickier and harder to shape.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
How can I add extra flavor to the cookies?
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or a few drops of almond essence to the marzipan for an extra burst of flavor.