 
 Recipe
   A delightful treat with a pineapple jam filling, enclosed in a tender tart dough and baked to a golden perfection.
| 1 | fresh pineapple, cored and sliced | 
|---|---|
| 1 | cinnamon stick | 
| 2 | cloves | 
| 1 | star anise | 
| 1 | vanilla pod, or ½ tsp vanilla essence | 
| 1⁄4 | cup sugar, or more depending on the sweetness of the pineapple | 
| 1 3⁄4 | cups all-purpose flour | 
| 2 | tablespoons cornstarch | 
| 1 | teaspoon salt | 
| 1⁄2 | cup butter, cut into small cubes and chilled | 
| 2 | egg yolks | 
| 2 | tablespoons caster sugar | 
| 1 | egg | 
| 1 | tablespoon water (for egg wash) | 
| 1. | Prepare the pineapple by removing the skin and eyes, and slicing the flesh and core into medium-sized chunks. If using canned pineapple, strain the flesh and discard the liquid. | 
|---|---|
| 2. | In a food processor or blender, blend the pineapple until semi-smooth, for about 30 seconds on high. | 
| 3. | Transfer the blended pineapple to a wide pan/pot, and add sugar, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and vanilla. | 
| 4. | Simmer the mixture on medium heat until it thickens to a marmalade-like consistency, which may take 1-1 1/2 hours. Stir every 5 minutes to prevent burning. | 
| 5. | Once the jam thickens, remove the spices, adjust sweetness if needed, and refrigerate. | 
| 6. | For the tart dough, sift all-purpose flour, cornflour, and salt. Mix in cold butter until sandy, then add sugar, egg yolks, and water. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. | 
| 7. | Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray. | 
| 8. | Roll out the dough on a floured surface, cut into circles, and fill each with pineapple jam. Fold into a triangle shape, then brush with egg wash. | 
| 9. | Place the hamantaschen on the baking tray and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. | 
Published on Jul 18, 2024 by Luminița