Introduction to Czech Kolache

Czech Kolache is a traditional pastry that originated in the Czech Republic. These sweet pastries are typically filled with fruit, cheese, or poppy seeds and are a staple at Czech bakeries and celebrations.

Ingredients

To make Czech Kolache, you will need the following ingredients: 2 cups of warm milk, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted, 1 egg, beaten, and your choice of filling (such as fruit, cheese, or poppy seeds).

Preparing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is activated and foamy. Add the sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling and Baking the Kolache

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a disk shape. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each disk and fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Place the kolache on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips and Variations

To add an extra layer of flavor to your kolache, try brushing the tops with melted butter or sprinkling with sugar before baking. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as apricot, prune, or farmer's cheese.