Mary Viktorin'S Kolaches
Mary Viktorin's Kolaches are soft, sweet yeast pastries filled with fruit or cottage cheese, perfect for breakfast or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy delicious baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Warm the 1/2 cup of milk, evaporated milk, sugar, oil, eggs and egg yolks, salt, and vanilla and add to the first mixture, beating well.
- Add about 6 to 8 cups of flour, mixing well to make a soft dough.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in bulk.
- Cut off small portions of dough, using a tablespoon to form balls.
- Place on a greased baking sheet about one inch apart and brush with melted butter.
- Let rise until light, then make an indentation in each piece and place fruit filling therein.
- If using cottage cheese as filling, enclose the cheese in dough.
- Spread out the small pieces of dough, place cheese on this, and pinch all sides together to completely seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the milk with buttermilk. You can also use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast, just remember to activate it in warm milk before adding it to the mixture. To save time, prepare the filling ahead of time, such as a fruit filling or cottage cheese, which can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these kolaches warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat. They also pair beautifully with sweet fruit preserves or a side of yogurt for added creaminess. For a festive touch, consider offering them at brunch alongside American recipes like Coconut-Lemon Cake or Christmas Butter Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kolaches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their fluffy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Viktorin'S Kolaches contains roughly 473 calories, with 9g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1037mg per serving (45% 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 for the kolaches?
Absolutely! While traditional fillings include fruit preserves and cottage cheese, you can experiment with other fillings such as nut butters, chocolate, or savory options like ham and cheese. Just ensure that the filling isn't too runny to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or cold temperatures. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active by testing it in warm water with sugar before using. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area, such as an oven with the light on, to encourage rising.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! After kneading, place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and rise before shaping and filling. This allows for a more developed flavor and texture.
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).