Sourdough Kolaches Recipe: Easy Homemade Delight

Sourdough kolaches bring a delightful twist to traditional kolaches, combining the tangy depth of sourdough with the soft, pillowy texture of these beloved Czech pastries. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or new to the world of fermented breads, this recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy the best of both worlds.

These kolaches are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, with fillings ranging from sweet fruit preserves to savory cheese and sausage. The natural fermentation process not only adds flavor complexity but also improves digestibility, making each bite both delicious and satisfying.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a detailed, step-by-step sourdough kolaches recipe that’s approachable for bakers of all levels. Plus, I’ll share tips for variations, serving suggestions, and nutritional insights to help you make the most of this versatile treat.

Ready to bake some irresistible sourdough kolaches? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sourdough kolaches recipe is a game-changer because it combines the rich, tangy flavor of sourdough with the classic soft and fluffy texture of kolaches. The fermentation process enhances flavor while making the dough easier to digest compared to conventional yeasted doughs.

Versatility is another great reason to love this recipe. You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer sweet fruit jams, cream cheese, or savory sausage and cheese.

Plus, sourdough fermentation means you can prepare the dough ahead of time, giving you flexibility for your baking schedule.

Finally, these kolaches bake up beautifully golden with a tender crumb, perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests at brunch. They’re a delicious way to introduce sourdough baking to your repertoire with a fun, approachable recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup whole milk, warm
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fillings: apricot jam, cream cheese, cooked sausage pieces, or your favorite jam or savory filling
• Egg wash: 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional but helpful)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (recommended for accuracy)
• Bench scraper or spatula
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Feed your sourdough starter about 4-6 hours before baking, making sure it’s bubbly and active. You’ll need 1 cup.
2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the sourdough starter, warm milk, melted butter, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Add the flour and salt gradually, mixing on low speed or stirring by hand until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough either in the stand mixer for 6-8 minutes or on a floured surface by hand for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until noticeably puffed but not necessarily doubled.
6. After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick.
7. Cut the dough into 12-15 squares (about 3×3 inches each). Place the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
8. Using your fingers or a small spoon, press a shallow well in the center of each square to hold the filling.
9. Add your preferred filling (about 1 tbsp per kolache). Popular options include apricot jam, cream cheese dollops, or savory sausage crumbles.
10. Cover the kolaches lightly with a kitchen towel and let them proof for another 1-2 hours, until puffy but not over-proofed.
11. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each kolache gently with the egg wash.
12. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the kolaches are golden brown and cooked through.
13. Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter, fluffier dough, make sure your sourdough starter is very active and bubbly before beginning.

If you prefer sweeter kolaches, increase the sugar to ⅓ cup and add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for extra warmth.

Try mixing cream cheese with a bit of lemon zest and sugar for a luscious filling.

For savory kolaches, experiment with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and cheese alongside cooked sausage.

Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives the kolaches a beautiful golden sheen that’s irresistible!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Sourdough kolaches are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of beverages and sides. For a cozy breakfast, serve them warm with a cup of coffee or chai tea.

They also make a delightful brunch option alongside fresh fruit salad or a green salad like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

For savory kolaches, consider serving with a light soup or stew. If you enjoy plant-based meals, this recipe pairs wonderfully with dishes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide to create a satisfying and balanced meal.

Leftovers can be reheated in a low oven or toaster oven to regain their fresh-baked texture, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Conclusion

Mastering sourdough kolaches is a rewarding experience that introduces you to the art of fermented dough with a delicious payoff. This recipe balances the tangy complexity of sourdough with the soft, tender crumb of traditional kolaches, creating a pastry that’s perfect for any time of day.

Whether you prefer sweet or savory fillings, these kolaches offer endless possibilities for customization and creativity in the kitchen.

Not only will you enjoy the delightful flavors and textures, but you’ll also appreciate the health benefits and digestibility that come with sourdough fermentation. I encourage you to experiment with different fillings and share these little pockets of joy with loved ones.

For more inspiring recipes that fit well with your baking journey, check out the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals or the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food. Happy baking!

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