Okay I know it’s a week late, but I only got to make these the day *after* Purim, and then went rock climbing outside in the beautiful weather Sunday instead of sitting down to blog.  Sue me.  :)  Figured at that point Purim had already passed anyways!  I will make sure to post this again next year before the holiday starts, but they were too good not to share now.

Hamenstaschen are the traditional food for the Jewish holiday of Purim, representing the 3 cornered hat of the villain of the story, Haman.  Or at least, that’s the version of the story I learned.  :)  Whatever the reason, we bake them for Purim, traditionally to deliver as gifts to friends and neighbors.  I always made them with my mom growing up, and I decided this year it was time to veganize the family recipe.  And what a success!  They were a little crispier the first day than I would have liked, but they softened up nicely overnight and were absolutely devoured by my friends who were over for my birthday.  (Yup, I’m a Purim baby – my name is not a coincidence!)  I may tweak the recipe a bit in the future, but it is well worth trying out now.  Hag Sameach! (Happy Holiday! :) )

Hamentaschen
Makes a little over 2 dozen
Please note: dough must chill for at least 2 hours, so plan accordingly.
3/4 C sugar
2 C flour
2 t baking powder
1/4 t salt
1/2 C shortening
1 flax egg
2-3 T orange juice
1 can apricot filling (or filling of your choice – poppy seed is the most traditional but apricot is my favorite)

1. Mix sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl.  Work shortening in with an electric mixer.  Add flax egg and orange juice, mixing until a dough is formed.  Start with 2 T of orange juice and add more as neceessary.

2.  Chill overnight or a minimum of 2 hours.

3.  Roll out 1/8″ thick on lightly floured board.  Add flour if sticking, and flour the board as well.  Cut into 3″ circles.  Please 1 heaping teaspoon filling in center, and pinch 3 edges together, leaving a small opening.

4.  Place on greased or non-stick cookie sheet.  Cover with cloth and set aside for half an hour.  While waiting, preheat oven to 400.  Bake 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.  If you have more than one tray, bake one tray at a time on middle rack.

Enjoy!