Aunt Elaine'S Cream Cheese Kiefles
A delightful treat featuring buttery, creamy filling encased in flaky pastry, topped with powdered sugar. Perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Add flour and salt; blend well to form dough.
- Form dough into 3 balls and chill for several hours.
- Roll each ball thin on a powdered sugar-dusted surface.
- Cut the rolled dough into 3-inch squares.
- Place filling in the center of each square.
- Do not overfill; the filling will bake out.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Cool on a rack after baking.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can try adding a bit of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the dough for extra flavor. If you don't have cream cheese on hand, mascarpone or ricotta can be used as substitutes, though the texture may vary slightly. Make sure the butter is softened for easier mixing, and for a smoother dough, chill it longer if it feels too sticky.
Serving Suggestions
These kiefles are delightful on their own, but they can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a great addition to dessert platters, especially alongside other favorites like Peggy'S Crock Pot Macaroni And Cheese for a diverse spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kiefles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be refrigerated for about a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm, allowing their texture to revive without becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Elaine'S Cream Cheese Kiefles contains roughly 280 calories, with 5g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze kiefles after baking?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze kiefles! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
What kind of filling is best for kiefles?
Traditionally, kiefles are filled with fruit preserves, nuts, or sweetened cheese. Apricot, raspberry, or poppy seed fillings are popular choices. You can also experiment with chocolate or even savory fillings for a unique twist!
How do I ensure my kiefles maintain their shape while baking?
To maintain their shape, ensure the dough is rolled out evenly and not too thick. Chilling the dough before baking helps it hold its shape better when introduced to heat. Avoid overfilling each square, as excess filling can cause them to spread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).