Cream Cheese Kittles
Cream Cheese Kittles are rich, buttery pastries with a hint of whiskey, filled with apricot and nut stuffing, perfect for festive occasions or sweet gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Knead the flour, softened butter, cream cheese, egg yolks, whiskey, and sour cream together until well combined.
- Roll the dough into balls about the size of walnuts.
- Chill the dough balls overnight in the refrigerator.
- Mix the nut stuffing with sugar to prepare the filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough. If you don't have whiskey, use vanilla extract as a substitute. You can also try adding a touch of cinnamon to the nut stuffing for an extra layer of flavor. Be sure to knead the dough thoroughly to ensure a smooth texture. If you're short on time, chilling the dough for a few hours can still yield good results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cream Cheese Kittles as a delightful dessert or sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with Homemade Irish Creme Liqueur for a festive treat. For an added touch, dust them with powdered sugar just before serving. Consider serving alongside Swedish Gingersnaps for a fun dessert platter during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cream Cheese Kittles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warm, ensuring they stay soft and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Kittles contains roughly 831 calories, with 12g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
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 use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese is ideal for its creamy texture, you can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the consistency may vary, so adjust the flour accordingly to maintain the dough's integrity.
How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?
The dough is ready when it is smooth and elastic, not sticky or crumbly. A good test is to poke the dough with a finger; it should spring back slightly. If it feels too tacky, knead in a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the nut stuffing mixture a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before using it to fill the dough, ensuring easier handling.
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).