Cheese Kolaches are a delightful treat that hails from Eastern European cuisine, particularly popular in Czech and Slovak traditions. These savory pastries are known for their pillowy dough and rich, creamy filling, making them a perfect choice for breakfast, snacks, or even as crowd-pleasing appetizers. The combination of flavorful dough and luscious cream cheese filling creates a satisfying bite that is sure to please a variety of palates.
Ingredients
Scale:
Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk, warmed to 110°F
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
Cream Cheese Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg yolk (optional, for richness)
Topping (optional):
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
Add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture, then stir until well combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it is manageable.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
Shape the Kolaches: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut circles using a round cutter or a glass (approximately 3 inches in diameter).
Place a tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each circle. Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching to seal.
Place the filled kolaches seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Cover the kolaches with a towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes or until p￭.
Bake the Kolaches: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush each kolache with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
