Ingredients

2 compressed yeast cakes or ( 1/4 ounce ) packages dry yeast
1/4 cup water , lukewarm ( about 100F )
1 teaspoon sugar
3/4 3/4 cup margarine or 3/4 cup butter
3/4 cup sugar
2 egg yolks
2 teaspoons salt
1 can evaporated milk , plus
4 ounces hot water
6 cups flour ( measure by lightly spooning into cup and leveling off )
melted butter , for brushing
2 cups dry curd cottage cheese
1 package cream cheese
1 pinch salt
1 egg yolk
1/2 cup sugar
grated zest of one lemon
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice ( fresh is best )
16 ounces prunes
water , to cover
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
10 ounces dried apricots
water , to cover
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup flour
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon , more to taste
2 tablespoons butter , melted
Kolaches are a traditional pastry that originated in Czechoslovakia and have been passed down through generations of families. They are typically filled with sweet fruit fillings like prune or apricot, but savory fillings like sausage and cheese are also common. Mrs. Jerabek's Kolaches are a classic recipe that is easy to make and sure to impress. The pastry is soft and fluffy, while the fillings offer a burst of sweet or savory flavors in every bite. Kolaches are a popular breakfast and brunch item or a sweet snack to enjoy with coffee or tea.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar.
2.In a large mixing bowl, cream together margarine/butter and sugar.
3.Add egg yolks, salt, and evaporated milk plus hot water; mix well.
4.Slowly mix in 6 cups of flour until dough is soft and smooth.
5.Place dough in a warm place and let it rise until it doubles in size.
6.Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining dry curd cottage cheese and cream cheese in a mixing bowl, then add salt, egg yolk, 1/2 cup sugar, and lemon zest & juice. Mix well.
7.For the second filling, first, boil prunes and apricots in separate pots with water to cover, then blend them separately in a food processor or blender. Add 1/2 cup sugar to the apricots and 1 cup sugar + 1/2 cup flour to the prunes. Mix 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon with the prune filling.
8.Preheat oven to 400F and lightly grease baking sheets.
9.On a floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 3-inch rounds.
10.Place a spoonful of filling on each round (either cheese or fruit).
11.Fold the edges of each round, pinching them closed to form a ball.
12.Brush each ball with melted butter.
13.Place kolaches, filling side up, on prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
14.Serve warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

PROS

Kolaches are a delicious traditional pastry that can be filled with either sweet fruit fillings or savory meats.

This recipe is versatile and easy to customize to your liking.

Kolaches are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack.

CONS

Kolaches can be high in calories and sugar, especially when filled with sweet fruit fillings.

This pastry should be enjoyed as a treat in moderation.

Preparing the dough and fillings can be time-consuming and require some skill.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Kolaches are not the healthiest food choice, they can still offer benefits when consumed in moderation.
Prunes and apricots are both rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can aid in digestion and support overall health.

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