Kolacz A Taste of Tradition
Kolacz, a traditional Polish pastry, is a sweet treat often enjoyed during special occasions like holidays and weddings. It is made with a soft yeast dough, filled with sweet fillings such as poppy seeds, cheese, fruit preserves, or nuts. The dough is typically rolled out, spread with the filling, and shaped into a roll or ring before baking.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl Used to combine all the dough ingredients.
- 1 Small Bowl For dissolving yeast in warm milk.
- 1 set Measuring Cups & Spoons To measure ingredients accurately.
- 1 Rolling Pin To roll out the dough evenly.
- 1 Baking Sheet To bake the Kolacz on; line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 1 sheet Parchment Paper (Optional) Helps with cleanup and prevents sticking.
- 1 Kitchen Towel Used to cover the dough while it rises.
- 1 Oven To bake the Kolacz at 350°F (175°C).
- 1 Pastry Brush (Optional) To glaze the Kolacz with powdered sugar, if desired.
Ingredients
- 3 Cups All-purpose flour Use unbleached flour for a better texture.
- 1/4 Cup Sugar For sweetness in the dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 1 packet (7g) Dry yeast Helps the dough rise.
- 1/2 Cup Warm milk Should be warm, not hot, for activating yeast.
- 2 Eggs Adds richness and structure to the dough.
- 1/4 Cup Unsalted butter Adds flavor and soft texture to the dough.
- 1 Cup Fruit preserves, poppy seed paste, or sweetened cream cheese Choose your preferred filling for the Kolacz.
- Optional Powdered sugar For glazing the Kolacz after baking.
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:In a small bowl, dissolve the dry yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
- Make the Dough:In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Add the eggs, melted butter, and the yeast mixture. Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise:Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Roll Out the Dough:Once the dough has risen, turn it onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick
- Add the Filling:Spread your chosen filling (fruit preserves, poppy seed paste, or sweetened cream cheese) evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Shape the Kolacz:Carefully fold or shape the dough into a ring or roll, depending on your preference, and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Kolacz:Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the Kolacz turns golden brown.
- Glaze the Kolacz (Optional):After removing the Kolacz from the oven and letting it cool slightly, brush with powdered sugar for a sweet glaze if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:Allow the Kolacz to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Kolacz!