Hungarian Crescent Cookies (Kifli)

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 250 g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 200 g (7 oz) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling (Optional – traditional walnut filling):

• 200 g (2 cups) ground walnuts
• 100 g (½ cup) sugar
• 60 ml (¼ cup) milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

For Coating:

• 1–2 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add softened butter and rub it into the flour until crumbly.
3. Add sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix and knead until a soft dough forms.
4. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.

Prepare the Filling (if using):
5. Heat milk and sugar in a small saucepan until dissolved.
6. Stir in ground walnuts and lemon zest. Let cool completely.

Shape the Cookies:
7. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Roll out the dough to about 3 mm (⅛ inch) thickness.
9. Cut into small circles or triangles.
10. Place a small amount of filling on each piece and roll into a crescent shape.

11. Arrange on the baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden (do not overbake).
12. While still warm, generously dust with powdered sugar.

Let cool completely before serving.