Kolaches are soft, fluffy sweet buns filled with a rich, creamy cheese filling. These traditional pastries, with origins in Central and Eastern Europe, are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The combination of pillowy dough and slightly tangy, sweet cheese makes them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft & Fluffy Dough – Light and airy texture with a rich, buttery flavor.
- Creamy Sweet Filling – A smooth, slightly tangy cheese mixture that complements the dough.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy these as a breakfast pastry, snack, or dessert.
- Customizable – Can be filled with fruit, jam, or other sweet fillings.
- Traditional Yet Easy to Make – A great way to try classic baking with simple steps.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- Active dry yeast
- Warm milk
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
For the Cheese Filling:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Egg yolk
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and remaining sugar.
- Add melted butter, egg, vanilla, and yeast mixture to the bowl.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk until smooth.
Assemble the Buns:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Divide dough into 10–12 balls and flatten slightly.
- Make an indentation in the center of each bun and fill with 1–2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture.
- Let the filled buns rest for 15 minutes before baking.
Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rest Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 53 minutes
- Servings: 10–12
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Fruit-Filled Kolaches – Add a spoonful of jam or fruit preserves along with the cheese filling.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping – Sprinkle the buns with cinnamon sugar before baking.
- Nutty Version – Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top.
- Savory Kolaches – Omit the sugar and fill with cheese and herbs for a savory twist.
- Glazed Kolaches – Drizzle with a simple sugar glaze or honey after baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.
FAQs
What are Kolaches?
Kolaches are traditional Czech pastries that are soft, slightly sweet, and often filled with cheese, fruit, or poppy seeds.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! If using instant yeast, skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight, then shape and bake fresh the next day.
Do Kolaches need to be refrigerated?
If consuming within 2 days, they can be kept at room temperature. Otherwise, refrigerate for freshness.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! If short on time, pre-made sweet dough or crescent roll dough can work as a shortcut.
How do I make a fruit version?
Replace the cheese filling with jam, fruit preserves, or sweetened fruit puree.
What should I serve with Kolaches?
They pair well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
Can I add a crumble topping?
Yes! Mix butter, flour, and sugar to create a streusel topping before baking.
What makes Kolaches different from Danish pastries?
Kolaches have a soft bread-like texture, while Danishes are more flaky and buttery.
Conclusion
Sweet Cheese Filled Buns (Kolaches) are a delightful, soft, and creamy pastry perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Whether served warm with coffee or packed for an on-the-go treat, these fluffy, cheese-filled buns will quickly become a favorite. Try this authentic recipe and bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen!
