Dulce de Leche Kolache

Dulce de Leche Kolache Recipe: A Sweet and Delicious Treat
Looking for a sweet and indulgent treat that will satisfy your cravings? Look no further than the Dulce de Leche Kolache! This delectable pastry is a traditional Czech dessert that has been given a Latin twist with the addition of dulce de leche. With its soft and fluffy dough and rich, creamy filling, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients (makes 12 kolaches):

For the dough:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs


For the filling:

- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
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, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and flour mixture to a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together.
4. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the dulce de leche, chopped pecans, and cinnamon. Spoon a tablespoon of the filling onto each dough ball.
9. Bake the kolaches for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown.
10. Let the kolaches cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Appearance and Taste:
The Dulce de Leche Kolache is a beautiful pastry with a golden brown exterior and a creamy, caramel-colored filling. The dough is soft and fluffy, with a slightly sweet flavor that complements the rich dulce de leche filling. The addition of chopped pecans and cinnamon adds a nutty and spicy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the filling. This pastry is perfect for a sweet breakfast or as a dessert after dinner.
Type of Dish: Sweet Pastry
Main Ingredients: Flour, Dulce de Leche, Pecans