Homemade Kolache Recipe

Let’s talk more about Homemade Kolache recipe – Kolaches are sweet, fluffy pastries with delicious fillings that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s a fruit jam, cream cheese, or savory sausage, these Czech-origin pastries have become a breakfast staple, especially in Texas. If you’ve never had a kolache before, you’re in for a treat. This recipe will walk you through the process of making kolaches from scratch in the comfort of your home.

A Brief History of Homemade Kolache Recipe:

Kolaches originated in the Czech Republic and were brought to the U.S. by Czech immigrants in the 1800s. Traditionally, these pastries were made with a sweet, yeast dough and filled with fruits like apricots, cherries, or poppy seeds. Over time, savory versions with fillings such as sausage or cheese were developed. Kolaches have a deep-rooted tradition in Central Europe but have also become a regional favorite in the United States, especially in Texas, where you’ll often find them filled with a variety of ingredients.

Homemade Kolache Recipe

Pinklady

Kolaches originated in the Czech Republic and were brought to the U.S. by Czech immigrants in the 1800s. Traditionally, these pastries were made with a sweet, yeast dough and filled with fruits like apricots, cherries, or poppy seeds. Over time, savory versions with fillings such as sausage or cheese were developed.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Pastries

Cuisine Czech

Servings 12 Kolaches

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling Pin
• Pastry brush

Ingredients

  

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (around 110°F)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup whole milk, warm
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)

See also  Corn Pudding Recipe

For the Filling (choose one or mix and match):

• Fruit Jam Filling: 1 cup of your favorite fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry work well)
• Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Savory Sausage Filling: 8 fully cooked sausage links or chunks of sausage, cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

 

• Activate the Yeast

  In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir lightly and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. This indicates the yeast is activated and ready to use.
• Mix the Wet Ingredients

  In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the melted butter, warm milk, eggs, the remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well until fully incorporated.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  Add the foamy yeast mixture to the wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
• Knead the Dough

  Once the dough forms, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
• Let the Dough Rise

  Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Shape the Kolaches

  Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal pieces and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball with your hands or a rolling pin into a small circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
• Fill the Kolaches

  For sweet kolaches, place a spoonful of fruit jam or the cream cheese mixture in the center of each flattened dough ball. For savory kolaches, place a sausage in the center and fold the dough around it, pinching the edges to seal.
• Let the Kolaches Rest

  Place the filled kolaches on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let them rest for another 20-30 minutes to puff up slightly.
• Apply Egg Wash

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Lightly brush each kolache with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
• Bake the Kolaches

  Bake the kolaches for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Video

Keyword Homemade Kolache Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Danish Pastries: Another European pastry, these are buttery, flaky, and often filled with fruit or cream cheese.
– Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, sweet rolls with cinnamon sugar and cream cheese frosting.
– Sausage Rolls: Savory pastries filled with seasoned sausage and often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Kolache Recipe:

1. Can I make kolaches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. The next day, let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I freeze kolaches?

Absolutely. After baking, allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw and warm in the oven.

3. What other fillings can I use for kolaches?

You can use any fruit jam, nutella, apple butter, poppy seeds, or even scrambled eggs and bacon for a breakfast version.

4. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought bread or crescent dough, but making your own dough gives kolaches a more authentic taste and texture.

5. Why did my kolaches not rise?

If your kolaches didn’t rise, it might be due to expired yeast, water that was too hot or too cold, or a cold environment. Ensure you use warm water and let the dough rise in a warm place.

6. Can I make gluten-free kolaches?

Yes, simply use gluten-free flour. However, you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly, and the texture might be different from traditional kolaches.

7. How long will kolaches stay fresh?

Kolaches are best enjoyed the day they are made but can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

8. What’s the difference between sweet and savory kolaches?

Sweet kolaches typically have fillings like fruit or cream cheese, while savory kolaches are filled with meats like sausage or ham.

9. What can I serve with kolaches?

Kolaches pair well with coffee, tea, or a light fruit salad. For savory kolaches, you can serve them with scrambled eggs or hash browns.

10. Can I make mini kolaches?

Yes, just divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the filling amounts accordingly. You may need to shorten the baking time slightly.

Conclusion:

Kolaches are a delightful pastry that can be customized to suit your taste, whether sweet or savory. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the flavors of Czech tradition into your kitchen. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, kolaches are bound to become a household favorite.

YouTube Video Credits:
Ethan Chlebowski