Cranberry Kolache

Cranberry Kolache Recipe: A Delicious and Festive Treat
Looking for a sweet and tangy pastry to serve during the holidays? Look no further than this Cranberry Kolache recipe! This traditional Czech pastry is filled with a delicious cranberry filling and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients (makes 12 kolaches):

For the dough:

- 2 1/4 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 warm milk
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast

For the filling:

- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, warm milk, and yeast. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. While the dough is rising, make the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each ball.
7. Spoon a tablespoon of the cranberry filling into each indentation.
8. Bake the kolaches for 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve the Cranberry Kolaches warm or at room temperature.
Appearance and Taste:
These Cranberry Kolaches are a beautiful deep golden brown color with a sweet and tangy cranberry filling. The dough is soft and pillowy, with a slightly sweet flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries. The orange zest adds a bright citrus note that balances out the sweetness of the filling. These kolaches are perfect for a holiday brunch or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Type of Dish: Pastry, Dessert
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Flour, Butter