Koláče - Czech Sweet Pastries

Ingredients

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• Filling options: fruit preserves, poppy seeds, sweet cheese, or other desired fillings Filling options: fruit preserves, poppy seeds, sweet cheese, or other desired fillings
• Powdered sugar or icing, for dusting (optional) Powdered sugar or icing, for dusting (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 10g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (12g sugars)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. 3.
   Add the softened butter and eggs to the yeast mixture and whisk until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions.
9. 9.
   Roll each portion into a small circle and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
10. 10.
    Add a spoonful of desired filling in the center of each dough circle.
11. 11.
    Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a round or square shape.
12. 12.
    Bake the Koláče for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
14. 14.
    Optional: Dust the Koláče with powdered sugar or drizzle with icing for added sweetness.
15. 15.
    Serve warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active to achieve a good rise in the dough.
• Filling — Experiment with different fillings such as apricot preserves, poppy seed filling, or sweet cheese to discover your favorite flavor combination.
• Butter — Use unsalted butter to have better control over the saltiness of the dough.
• Milk — Warm the milk to around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast properly.
• Powdered sugar or icing — Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less powdered sugar or icing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a shiny finish, brush the Koláče with an egg wash before baking.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm place, such as near a window or on top of a preheated oven, to speed up the rising process.
• Experiment with different shapes for your Koláče, such as folding the dough into a triangle or pinching the edges to create a star shape.
• If using fruit preserves as a filling, make sure to drain any excess liquid to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
• Serve the Koláče warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful Czech experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Koláče warm or at room temperature as a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Koláče on a serving platter, dust them with powdered sugar, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant presentation. Alternatively, drizzle them with a thin icing glaze for a more decorative look.