Pumpkin Kolache

Pumpkin Kolache Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Pastry
Looking for a unique and delicious pastry to serve at your next gathering? Look no further than the Pumpkin Kolache! This sweet and savory pastry is a perfect blend of pumpkin, spices, and dough, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients (per serving):

- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ginger


Cooking Tips:

- Make sure your milk is warm, but not too hot, or it will kill the yeast.
- Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to make the dough easier to handle.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for at least an hour to ensure it's light and fluffy.
Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, softened butter, and egg to the flour mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it's smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for at least an hour.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
8. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
9. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet and let rise for another 10-15 minutes.
10. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each ball and fill with your desired filling (such as cream cheese or fruit preserves).
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the kolaches are golden brown.
Appearance and Taste:
The Pumpkin Kolache is a beautiful pastry with a golden brown exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The pumpkin and spices give it a warm, comforting flavor that's perfect for fall. The filling adds a delicious burst of sweetness that complements the dough perfectly.
Type of Dish: Sweet Pastry
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin, Flour, Sugar