Filled Kolackys
Filled Kolackys are delightful pastries filled with sweet cooked prunes, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Their soft, yeasty dough pairs beautifully with the rich prune filling, making them a favorite for those who enjoy fruity, comforting baked goods. Ideal for family gatherings or teatime treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the active dry yeast in warm water or the compressed yeast in lukewarm water.
- Scald the milk and add it to the softened yeast mixture.
- In a large bowl, combine the scalded milk, shortening or margarine, sugar, salt, and eggs.
- Gradually add the sifted flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a circle.
- Place a cooked, pitted prune in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold and seal the edges to enclose the prune, forming a filled pastry.
- Place the filled kolackys on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening or margarine. If you want to experiment, try substituting the prunes with other fillings like apricots or jam. Make sure the milk is scalded properly to activate the yeast effectively. Kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic is key for texture, so be patient with this step.
Serving Suggestions
These filled kolackys are delightful served warm, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack. They also complement holiday gatherings beautifully, especially alongside dishes like Houska Christmas Bread. Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kolackys in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Filled Kolackys contains roughly 580 calories, with 38g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), protein (75% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to soften it in water. However, keep an eye on the dough as it may rise faster than with active dry yeast.
What can I use instead of prunes for the filling?
You can substitute prunes with a variety of fillings such as apricot preserves, cherries, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the filling is not too wet to avoid soggy pastries.
How do I know when the kolackys are done baking?
The kolackys are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).