Walnut Kolache (Roll)
Walnut kolache are soft, sweet pastries filled with ground walnuts and jam or dried fruit, perfect for breakfast, tea time, or special occasions, offering warm nutty and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Scald milk and then let it cool to lukewarm.
- Add oleo, sugar, and salt to the milk and mix well.
- Cool the mixture to lukewarm.
- Add beaten egg and dissolved yeast to the mixture.
- Stir in 1/2 of the flour and beat well until smooth.
- Add 1/2 cup ground walnuts.
- Gradually mix in the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of dough onto an oiled baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with melted butter.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Use a teaspoon to press out a center in each dough piece.
- Fill the center with jams, dried apricots, prunes dipped in ground nuts, or nut filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Mix powdered sugar, hot water, and vanilla until smooth to make glaze.
- Spread the glaze on the warm kolache before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly ground walnuts instead of pre-ground. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute. If you're looking for a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise, and keep the dough in a warm place to help it double in size effectively.
Serving Suggestions
These walnut kolache are delightful on their own but can also be paired with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a cheese platter featuring Brie Cheese Appetizer. They also make a lovely addition to brunch spreads or holiday gatherings, inviting guests to enjoy a variety of fillings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kolache in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Kolache (Roll) contains roughly 152 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 810mg per serving (35% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried for the filling?
Using fresh fruit can be a delicious alternative, but be cautious of moisture. Fresh fruits like berries should be cooked down slightly to prevent sogginess. If you use fresh fruit, consider adding a bit of cornstarch to thicken any juices during baking.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or cold dough. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the liquid you use is warm, not hot. If the dough is too cold, place it in a warm area or near a preheating oven to encourage rising.
How can I make these kolache gluten-free?
To make gluten-free kolache, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately if not included. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but they can still be delicious with the right adjustments.
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).