Grandma’s Famous Holiday Pastries
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling Options (choose one or mix)
- Fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry)
- Sweetened cream cheese
- Nut filling (walnuts or pecans mixed with sugar and cinnamon)
Topping
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg yolks, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps make it easier to roll.
3. Roll and Cut
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Cut into squares or circles depending on the shape you want.
4. Add Filling
Place a small spoon of filling in the center of each piece.
Fold or shape as desired:
- Fold corners inward (like little envelopes)
- Roll into crescents
- Or fold in half for simple turnovers
5. Bake
Place pastries on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Finish
Let them cool slightly, then dust generously with powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Holiday Pastries
- Don’t overfill or they may leak while baking
- Keep dough cold for easier handling
- Mix different fillings for a festive variety platter
- These taste even better the next day
Serving Idea
Serve with hot tea, coffee, or milk for that cozy holiday feeling