Try this American take on the traditional Czech pastry, kolaches. These sweet, soft dough pastries filled with jam or cheese are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Make a batch and enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Jam or cream cheese filling
Directions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix together warm milk, sugar, butter, egg, and salt. Add in the yeast mixture.
- Gradually stir in flour until dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down dough and divide into small balls. Place on a greased baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in the center of each ball and fill with jam or cream cheese.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Kolaches originated in Central Europe but have become a beloved pastry in the United States, especially in states with large Czech populations like Texas and Iowa.
Traditional kolaches are filled with apricot, poppy seed, or prune, but American versions often feature sweeter fillings like cream cheese or fruit jams.