Hey y’all! Today, we’re diving into a delicious treat that’s sure to warm your heart and please your taste buds. We’re talking about Cream Cheese Kolaches! These delightful pastries come straight from the heart of Central European tradition and have been embraced by so many folks in the States. Let’s get started, and trust me, you’ll want to whip these up in your kitchen.
Cream Cheese Kolaches
These kolaches are soft, pillowy pastries filled with creamy goodness. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or just as a snack, you’ll find they hit the spot every time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the melted butter, egg, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until you form a dough. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out onto a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass.
- Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges over to create a pocket, pinching to seal well.
- Place the filled kolaches on a greased baking sheet and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the kolaches for a lovely golden color.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before enjoying.
There you have it—soft, creamy, and downright delicious Cream Cheese Kolaches! They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, or just keeping all to yourself. Happy baking!