Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Kolache

Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe: A Delicious Treat for Any Occasion
Looking for a sweet and tangy pastry that will satisfy your cravings? Look no further than the Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Kolache! This delectable pastry is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and fruity topping, it's sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients (per serving):

- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tbsp orange zest


Cooking Tips:

- Make sure your yeast is fresh and active before starting the recipe.
- Use warm milk to activate the yeast, but not too hot or it will kill the yeast.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for at least an hour.
- Use a pastry brush to brush the egg wash on the dough before baking to get a shiny, golden crust.
Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, warm milk, sugar, salt, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and cut into 4 equal pieces.
7. Spread the cream cheese mixture onto each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Top each piece with cranberry sauce and orange zest.
9. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal.
10. Place the kolaches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. Brush the tops with egg wash.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
13. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Appearance and Taste:
The Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Kolache is a beautiful pastry with a golden brown crust and a vibrant red and orange filling. The cream cheese filling is creamy and tangy, while the cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tart flavor. The orange zest gives it a bright citrusy note that balances out the richness of the cream cheese. The pastry itself is flaky and buttery, making it the perfect vessel for the delicious filling.
Type of Dish: Pastry, Dessert
Main Ingredients: Cranberry Sauce, Cream Cheese, Orange Zest