Introduction
Kolaches are delightful Czech pastries, cherished for their soft, pillowy dough and sweet or savory fillings, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or family gatherings. Originating from Central Europe and popularized in Texas, these pastries bring a comforting, homestyle warmth to any table. Their versatility allows for endless filling options, from fruit to cheese, appealing to all tastes. This straightforward recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels, delivering nostalgic charm and a touch of tradition with every bite.
Kolache Ingredients
Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling (Fruit):
- 1 cup fruit preserves (e.g., apricot, cherry, or blueberry)
Filling (Cheese):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 2 tbsp coarse sugar, for sprinkling
- Optional: 1/4 cup sliced almonds, for garnish
Step-by-Step Process
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
- Prepare Fillings: For cheese filling, mix cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth. For fruit, ensure preserves are ready. Set aside.
- Shape Kolaches: Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, flatten slightly, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press an indent in the center of each. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Fill and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush dough edges with egg wash. Spoon 1-2 tbsp of fruit or cheese filling into each indent. Sprinkle with optional coarse sugar or almonds. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for a Better Kolache
- Use warm milk (not hot) to activate yeast properly.
- Knead until dough is smooth to ensure a soft texture.
- Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
- Press deep indents to hold ample filling.
- Avoid overbaking to keep pastries tender.
- Use high-quality preserves for vibrant fruit flavor.
- Seal dough balls tightly to prevent filling leakage.
- Serve fresh for the best taste and texture.
Variations and Customization
- Poppy Seed Kolache: Use 1/2 cup poppy seed filling for a traditional Czech option.
- Savory Kolache: Fill with 1/2 cup sausage and cheddar cheese for a hearty twist.
- Nutella Kolache: Spread 1 tbsp Nutella in each indent for a modern flavor.
- Vegan Kolache: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
- Gluten-Free Kolache: Substitute with gluten-free flour blend and verify yeast is gluten-free.
- Lemon Cheese Kolache: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to cheese filling for a citrusy note.
- Spiced Kolache: Mix 1/2 tsp cinnamon into fruit filling for warmth.
- Low-Sugar Kolache: Use sugar-free preserves and reduce sugar in dough to 2 tbsp.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Freeze baked kolaches for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Serve with coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Use leftovers as a dessert with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Keep covered to prevent drying out.
- Avoid leaving at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
- Pair with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced brunch.
Nutritional Information
Based on 12 servings (1 kolache with mixed fillings):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
- Calcium: 6% Daily Value
- Iron: 10% Daily Value
Note: Nutritional values vary based on filling choices and ingredient brands. Kolaches are moderate in fat due to butter and cream cheese but provide protein and carbohydrates. For dietary needs, try vegan or low-sugar variations. Their balanced profile makes them a satisfying treat.
Conclusion
This kolache recipe captures the essence of a cherished Czech pastry, offering a soft, flavorful bite that’s perfect for any occasion, from morning coffee to festive celebrations. Its simple preparation and customizable fillings make it a versatile addition to any baker’s repertoire. The combination of sweet dough and rich fillings creates a comforting, homestyle experience. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, cherished for its tradition and warmth.
Kolache Recipe: Sweet Czech Pastry
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk warmed (110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted
- Filling Fruit:
- 1 cup fruit preserves e.g., apricot, cherry, or blueberry
- Filling Cheese:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Topping:
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 2 tbsp coarse sugar for sprinkling
- Optional: 1/4 cup sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions
- Combine warm milk and yeast; let sit until foamy (5-10 minutes).
- Mix flour, sugar, salt, yeast mixture, eggs, and butter into a dough.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes; let rise for 1-1.5 hours.
- Mix cheese filling; prepare fruit preserves.
- Divide dough into 12 balls, flatten, indent, and let rise 30 minutes.
- Brush with egg wash, fill, bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.
Notes
- Use warm milk for yeast activation.
- Press deep indents for fillings.
- Bake until golden for best texture.
- Serve fresh with coffee.
