Kolaches

Kolaches are soft, pillowy pastries with a sweet or savory filling, traditionally popular in Czech and Texan cuisine. Whether filled with fruit preserves, sweetened cheese, or savory meats and cheeses, kolaches make for a delicious breakfast or snack that’s perfect for sharing. The dough is slightly sweet, enriched with butter and milk, which gives it a light, tender texture. These versatile pastries can be customized with your favorite fillings and enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for a warm, comforting treat any time of day.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp salt

For the sweet cheese filling (optional):

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the fruit filling (optional):

• 1 cup fruit preserves (such as apricot, raspberry, or plum)

For the savory filling (optional):

• 1/2 lb cooked sausage or ham, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the topping:

• 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for sweet kolaches)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
4. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare the fillings: If making sweet cheese kolaches, mix together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla in a small bowl. Set aside.
6. Shape the kolaches: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced a couple of inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm, and use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center.
7. Fill the kolaches: Spoon a small amount of your chosen filling (fruit preserves, cheese filling, or savory meat and cheese) into the center of each indentation.
8. Let them rise again: Cover the kolaches loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the kolaches for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Finish and serve: Brush the warm kolaches with melted butter. For sweet kolaches, you can dust them with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy these soft, delicious kolaches as a breakfast treat, snack, or party favorite!