Oh, let me tell you about this delightful kolache recipe! These little Czech pastries are more than just a treat; they’re a piece of my childhood. I remember family gatherings where the air was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked kolaches, each one bursting with flavor and warmth. What I absolutely love about kolaches is their versatility—you can fill them with everything from fruit preserves to creamy cheese, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy brunch or a festive celebration, these pastries are sure to bring joy and a touch of tradition to your table. Trust me, once you try making them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup fruit preserves (such as apricot, raspberry, or your favorite) or cheese filling
How to Prepare the Kolache Recipe
Now, let’s dive into making these scrumptious kolaches! The process is quite simple, but trust me, the results are absolutely rewarding. First, we’ll start with the dough—it’s the heart of our kolaches!
Preparing the Dough
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets all frothy and bubbly—this is a sign your yeast is happy! In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Once your yeast mixture is ready, add it along with the egg to the dry ingredients. Now, it’s time to get your hands in there! Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. After that, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. It should double in size—so exciting!
Shaping the Kolaches
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release some air. On a floured surface, roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut circles, roughly 3 inches in diameter. Now comes the fun part! Place a spoonful of your favorite filling in the center of each circle, whether it’s sweet fruit preserves or a rich cheese filling. Carefully pinch the edges together to seal them, making sure they’re tight so the filling doesn’t escape during baking. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for the oven!
Baking and Cooling
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while your shaped kolaches rest for about 15 minutes—this helps them puff up a bit more. Once your oven is hot and ready, pop them in and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely golden brown—just the sight will have your mouth watering! Let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before digging in. Patience is key here, but oh, it’s so worth it when you take that first bite!
Why You’ll Love This Kolache Recipe
- Easy preparation that even beginners can master
- Deliciously soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Versatility in fillings—sweet fruit, savory cheese, or even your favorite jam!
- A delightful treat perfect for brunch, snacks, or dessert
- They freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy them anytime
FAQ Section
Can I use different fillings for the kolaches?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this kolache recipe is its versatility. You can fill them with a variety of options based on your taste. Try fruit preserves like apricot, raspberry, or blueberry for a sweet treat. If you’re in the mood for something savory, a creamy cheese filling works wonderfully too. You can even experiment with Nutella or chocolate for a decadent twist. The possibilities are endless!
How do I store leftover kolaches?
To keep your leftover kolaches fresh, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay good for about 2-3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each kolache in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be delightful when thawed, so you can enjoy them later!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the dough ahead of time! Just make the dough and let it rise as instructed. After the first rise, you can shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and complete the second rise before shaping and filling. This gives you the flexibility to enjoy homemade kolaches on your schedule!
Tips for Success
Making kolaches is a joy, but a few handy tips can make all the difference! First, when kneading the dough, don’t rush it—aim for that smooth, elastic texture, which usually takes about 5 minutes. If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it! For the rising process, find a warm spot in your kitchen; a slightly heated oven turned off works wonders. Lastly, keep an eye on your kolaches while they bake. Every oven is different, so check them around the 15-minute mark. You want that beautiful golden brown! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Each kolache is approximately 150 calories, with 5g of fat and 3g of protein. You also get about 22g of carbohydrates and 6g of sugar per serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific fillings you choose. Enjoy your treats mindfully!
Serving Suggestions
Kolaches are such a delightful treat on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with a warm cup of coffee or a soothing tea. Imagine enjoying a fresh kolache alongside a steaming mug of your favorite brew—it’s pure bliss! They also make for a charming addition to any brunch spread, so don’t hesitate to serve them with fresh fruit or a light salad for balance.
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
To learn more about the history of kolaches, visit The Spruce Eats.
Print
Kolache Recipe: 7 Irresistibly Soft Treats to Enjoy
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 kolaches 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Czech
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A traditional Czech pastry filled with sweet or savory fillings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup fruit preserves (or cheese)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix flour, sugar, and salt in another bowl.
- Add yeast mixture and egg to the dry ingredients.
- Knead dough until smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out dough and cut into circles.
- Place filling in the center of each circle.
- Pinch edges to seal.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Notes
- Try different fillings based on preference.
- Let pastries cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kolache
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: kolache recipe