Name: Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 cup whole milk, warm (110°F); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon water

When it comes to Texas breakfast pastries, few treats evoke as much affection as Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches. These delightful pastries, with their origins rooted in Central European traditions, have become a beloved staple throughout Texas. What makes this recipe particularly special is the luscious cream cheese filling that brings a velvety richness to the slightly sweet, pillowy dough. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or as part of a leisurely brunch, Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches are sure to impress both family and guests alike.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk, warm (110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the egg wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water

Steps / Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour, so keep an eye on the consistency.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
While the dough rises, prepare the cream cheese filling by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a disk about 4 inches in diameter.
Place a generous tablespoon of cream cheese filling in the center of each disk. Fold the edges over the filling, pinching to seal. Place the filled kolaches seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover the kolaches with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create the egg wash. Brush the tops of the kolaches with the egg wash for a golden finish.
Bake the kolaches for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches, consider the following tips: You can learn more about this topic.

Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality cream cheese for the filling to ensure a rich flavor and smooth texture.
Check Yeast Freshness: Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s active. If it doesn’t froth in the milk, it may be expired.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Shape and fill the kolaches in the morning for a fresh-baked breakfast.
Common Mistakes: Avoid over-kneading the dough, which can result in tough kolaches. It should be soft and slightly tacky.
Storage: Store any leftover kolaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.

Variations

While the classic cream cheese filling is delightful, feel free to experiment with these variations: Check out our related guide for more tips.

Fruit Filling: Substitute the cream cheese with your favorite fruit preserves or fresh fruit mixtures, such as cherry or apricot.
Savory Options: Try filling the kolaches with a mixture of sausage and cheese for a hearty variation perfect for brunch.
Dietary Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Use dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice for a delightful breakfast experience. For brunch, consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light quiche for added variety.