Cherry Kolache

Cherry Kolache Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Pastry
Looking for a sweet and fruity pastry to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than the Cherry Kolache! This traditional Czech pastry is a delicious treat that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make Cherry Kolache from scratch, with detailed instructions and tips to ensure your pastry turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients (makes 12 servings):

For the dough:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp active dry yeast

For the filling:

- 1 cup cherry preserves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the topping:

- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, and yeast. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. In a small saucepan, combine the cherry preserves, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a disc. Place the discs on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Spoon a tablespoon of the cherry filling onto each disc, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Brush the edges of the discs with the beaten egg and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top.
9. Bake the Cherry Kolache for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving.
Appearance and Taste:
Cherry Kolache is a beautiful pastry that's sure to impress your guests. The golden brown crust is crispy and flaky, while the sweet cherry filling is bursting with flavor. The sliced almonds on top add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the pastry. This dish is perfect for those who love sweet and fruity desserts.
Type of Dish: Sweet Pastry
Main Ingredients: Flour, Cherry Preserves, Sliced Almonds