Hungarian Shortbread Omlós Teasütemény
Introduction
Hungarian Shortbread, known locally as Omlós Teasütemény, is a delicate, melt-in-the-mouth butter cookie traditionally served with tea or coffee. “Omlós” means tender or crumbly, and that perfectly describes these cookies. Simple ingredients, careful handling, and gentle baking create a refined treat that has been loved in Hungarian homes for generations. These cookies are elegant yet humble, making them ideal for holidays, afternoon tea, or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Dough
- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 200 g (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g (½ cup) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar or vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Finishing
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Melted dark or milk chocolate for dipping
- Apricot, raspberry, or strawberry jam for sandwich cookies
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Cookie press or piping bag (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar and vanilla until pale, fluffy, and creamy. This step is essential for achieving a light and tender texture.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix gently just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies dense instead of crumbly.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Shape the dough into small balls, logs, rings, or traditional pressed shapes. A cookie press or piping bag gives the most authentic look.
Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving a little space between each.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat the oven to 170°C / 340°F.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale. This ensures a soft, delicate crumb.
Step 5: Cool and Finish
Allow cookies to cool completely on the tray. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar, dip half in melted chocolate, or sandwich with jam if desired.
Traditional Methods
- Classic Plain: Lightly dusted with powdered sugar
- Chocolate-Dipped: Half dipped and set on parchment
- Jam-Filled: Two cookies sandwiched with fruit jam
History
Omlós Teasütemény has been a staple in Hungarian baking for over a century. These cookies were often prepared for guests, holidays, and Sunday afternoons. Passed down through generations, the recipe reflects Central European baking traditions that value simplicity, butter quality, and precise technique.
Benefits
- Simple pantry ingredients
- No eggs, making them light and crisp
- Long shelf life when stored properly
- Perfect make-ahead cookie for celebrations
Texture and Flavor Profile
- Texture: Tender, crumbly, and melt-in-the-mouth
- Flavor: Rich buttery taste with subtle vanilla sweetness
Nutrition (Approximate per cookie)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Flavor improves after the first day as the butter settles.
Why People Love This Recipe
- Elegant yet easy
- Pairs beautifully with tea or coffee
- Customizable with chocolate or jam
- A timeless European classic
Conclusion
Hungarian Shortbread – Omlós Teasütemény is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With its delicate crumb and buttery richness, this cookie is a treasured classic that never goes out of style. Bake it once, and it will become a permanent part of your recipe collection.