Kolaches

How to Make Kolaches

Tap a step to highlight it, or turn on Cook Mode for large type and step-by-step focus.

1. Mix the flour, yeast, 60 g of sugar and the salt in a large bowl. Add the milk, egg and the 60 g of melted butter and mix to a soft dough.

   Mark done

2. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Put in an oiled bowl, cover and leave to rise for 1 hour until doubled.

   Mark done Start 8 min timer

3. Beat the cream cheese, 40 g of sugar, egg yolk, vanilla and lemon zest together until smooth.

   Mark done

4. Line 2 baking trays with baking paper. Divide the dough into 12 pieces, roll each into a smooth ball and space them 5 cm apart on the trays.

   Mark done

5. Cover loosely and leave to rise for 30 minutes until puffy. Heat the oven to 190°C / 375°F (170°C / 340°F fan) while they rise.

   Mark done Start 30 min timer

6. Press a deep well into the centre of each with three fingers or the bottom of a small glass, leaving a raised rim of about 1.5 cm.

   Mark done

7. Fill 6 of the wells with the cream cheese mixture and 6 with the jam, and brush the rims with the egg glaze.

   Mark done

8. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown, then brush the rims with the melted butter and cool on the trays for 10 minutes.

   Mark done Start 15 min timer

Tips for Making Kolaches

• Press the wells deeper than you think you need. The dough puffs up as it bakes and shrinks the hollow, and shallow ones let the filling spill.
• Do not overfill. A level tablespoon of filling is enough, and more bubbles over the rim and burns on the tray.
• Brush the rims with butter as soon as they come out of the oven. It keeps the crust soft and gives it a glossy finish.

What to Serve with Kolaches

• Hot coffee
• A glass of cold milk
• Fresh berries

Storing & Reheating Kolaches

Best eaten on the day they are baked, but keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cream cheese ones should be kept in the fridge. They freeze well for up to 2 months and can be warmed in a low oven.

Kolaches FAQ: Common Questions

Kolaches Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.