Kolach (Nut Strudel)(Yield: 5 Strudels)
Nut-filled kolach with a flaky, tender crust and sweet filling, perfect for breakfast or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy rich, homemade pastries.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix yeast with lukewarm water and 1 teaspoon sugar and let it activate.
- Cream shortening; add 1/2 cup sugar and beat well.
- Add eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition.
- Add yeast mixture and salt; mix thoroughly.
- Add flour alternately with condensed milk and 1/2 cup lukewarm water, mixing after each addition.
- Knead dough until it stops sticking to fingers.
- Divide dough into five equal portions.
- Roll each portion about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface.
- Spread filling over each rolled dough.
- Roll up each filled dough and brush the top with melted margarine.
- Place in greased pans, set in a warm place for 1 hour to rise.
- Bake at 375°F until nice and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, consider using a combination of butter and shortening. If you don't have condensed milk, whole milk can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the sweetness slightly. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise. If you prefer a nut-free option, try using a fruit filling instead, such as a jam or preserves.
Serving Suggestions
Kolach can be served warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. For a delightful dessert, serve alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving with a side of Horseradish Carrots for a unique flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep the strudels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kolach (Nut Strudel)(Yield: 5 Strudels) contains roughly 588 calories, with 7g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1337mg per serving (58% 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 a different type of filling besides nuts?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various fillings such as fruit preserves, poppy seeds, or even a sweet cheese mixture. Each option will offer a unique twist on the traditional recipe and cater to different taste preferences.
How can I tell when the strudels are done baking?
The strudels are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F to ensure they are properly baked.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. After kneading, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and filling, ensuring the yeast remains active.
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).