Kolaches Recipe – American Special
Kolaches are a delightful pastry originating from Central Europe, traditionally made with a soft, sweet yeast dough filled with a variety of fillings like fruit, cream cheese, or even savory options like sausage or ham. These pillowy, golden-brown treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and doughy goodness. They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings, making them a beloved, versatile snack.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Perform Time2 hr 30 min
- Total Time2 hr 55 min
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Filling (Fruit or Cream Cheese):
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves or jam (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry)
- OR
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened, mixed with 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for cream cheese filling)
For Topping:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- Optional: 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar.
Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, eggs, salt, and sour cream.
Add the yeast mixture and mix well.
Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
You can do this by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
Let the Dough Rise:
Lightly grease a bowl, place the dough in it, and cover with a clean towel.
Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Kolaches:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Use a round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
Place the circles on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add the Filling:
Press your thumb into the center of each dough circle to create a well.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of fruit preserves or cream cheese mixture into the center of each well.
Second Rise:
Cover the kolaches with a clean towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
Bake:
Brush the kolaches with melted butter and bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Serve:
Allow the kolaches to cool slightly before serving. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Recipe Notes:
Yeast : Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to wake up the yeast.
Dough : The dough should be soft and a little sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
Rising : Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
Storage : Keep leftovers in an airtight container for a few days, or freeze them.
Sweetness : You can add powdered sugar on top after baking for extra sweetness.
