Are you looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese with the traditional Czech pastry, kolaches? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the art of making kolaches with cream cheese, a recipe that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this kolaches recipe with cream cheese is a must-try for anyone who loves to indulge in mouthwatering pastries.

Kolaches, a popular pastry in Central Europe, are small, round pastries filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings. The name “kolache” is derived from the Czech word “koláč,” which means “cake.” These pastries have been a staple in Czech cuisine for centuries and have now gained popularity worldwide. The key to a perfect kolache lies in its flaky, buttery crust and the delectable filling that can range from sweet to savory.

In this recipe, we will focus on creating a kolache with a cream cheese filling, which adds a luxurious and creamy touch to the traditional pastry. The cream cheese filling complements the flaky crust beautifully, making for a mouthwatering treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to make your own kolaches with cream cheese.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
– 1 large egg, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
2. Add the chilled butter to the flour mixture and use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 2 minutes. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
6. Wrap the dough balls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. While the dough chills, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until smooth and creamy.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
9. Roll out one of the dough balls on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles from the dough.
10. Place a small spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pinching the edges to seal.
11. Place the kolaches on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion.
12. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
13. Bake the kolaches for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
14. Remove the kolaches from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
15. Transfer the kolaches to a wire rack and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade kolaches with cream cheese! These delightful pastries are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea and savor the rich flavors of the cream cheese filling and the flaky, buttery crust. Happy baking!