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Sweet Kolaches: A Touch of Tradition in Every Bite

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Eastern European tradition with these homemade Sweet Apricot Kolaches. These pillowy, soft pastries are filled with a tangy, yet sweet apricot jam and are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat to share. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these kolaches are a timeless addition to any dessert table or morning spread.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 375  F
Calories: 250
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

"Creamy Kolache Delight: A Soft, Sweet Tradition"
This title highlights the key feature of the recipe – the soft, creamy dough – and emphasizes its traditional roots. “Delight” hints at the joy these kolaches will bring when enjoyed, while “Soft, Sweet Tradition” ties it to the comforting, nostalgic feeling of homemade pastries.

Ingredients
    For the Cream Cheese Dough:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)
  • For the Fillings (Optional Flavors)
  • Fruit Fillings: Strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or blueberry preserves (about 1 cup)
  • 8 Cheese Cream Filling: 8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 egg yolk
  • 1/4 or Nutella Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: About cup per kolache
  • 1/4 Sugar: Cinnamon A mixture of 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon for a sweet twist
  • Savory Filling: Sausage, bacon, or cheese (about 1/4 cup per kolache for savory fans)
  • For Topping:
  • Powdered sugar (optional)
  • Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tablespoon water)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Dough
  2. 2
    Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm milk. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  3. 3
    Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until combined.
  4. 4
    Add the flour: Gradually add the flour and the yeast mixture to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
  5. 5
    Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. 6
    Let the dough rise: Lightly oil a bowl and place the dough in it. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  7. 7
    Step 2: Shape the Kolaches
  8. 8

    Preheat your oven to 375°F.

  9. 9

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll them into smooth balls or shape them into your desired form (rounds, pinwheels, or braids or simply cut into smaller squares about 2x2 inch using a pizza cutter or bench knife.

  10. 10
    Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Use your finger or the back of a spoon to create a well in the center of each piece for the filling.
  11. 11
    Step 3: Add the Fillings
  12. 12
    Fruit fillings: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of fruit preserves into the center of each dough ball.
  13. 13
    Cream cheese filling: In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk until smooth. Spoon about 1 teaspoon into each well.
  14. 14
    Nutella or chocolate filling: Add 1 teaspoon of Nutella or chocolate spread to the center of each dough ball.
  15. 15
    Savory filling: If making a savory version, spoon 1 teaspoon of cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded cheese into each well.
  16. 16
    Step 4: Bake the Kolaches
  17. 17
    Brush the tops of the dough with an egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tablespoon water) for a shiny, golden finish.
  18. 18
    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the kolaches are golden brown on top.
  19. 19
    Step 5: Optional Topping
  20. 20
    Once baked, let the kolaches cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 13g20%
Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 8g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • You can experiment with fillings based on what you have on hand, such as lemon curd, custard, or even savory options like ham and cheese.
  • If you're short on time, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight for a slow rise that enhances flavor.
  • These kolaches freeze wonderfully. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving for the best texture.
  • Try using a mix of fillings in one batch, so you can enjoy a variety of flavors!
Keywords: cream cheese dough kolaches with your favorite fillings for a perfect treat any time of the day

Enjoy the softness and richness of these cream cheese dough kolaches with your favorite fillings for a perfect treat any time of the day!

Read it online: https://alinashomesteadkitchen.com/recipe/sweet-kolaches-a-touch-of-tradition-in-every-bite/
Alina's Homestead Kitchen
Food Blogger

 
Alina's Homestead Kitchen is a friendly food blog with easy and delicious recipes for every meal, including breakfasts, dinners, and more. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find fresh inspiration and creative ideas here. We also highlight Postpartum Recipes to help moms recover and nourish their bodies after childbirth.