Apricot Kolaches

Next time you host a brunch or need a dessert for a picnic or potluck, these apricot kolaches are sure to make an impression. Light, pillowy and tender sweet bread filled with a luscious, mildly tart apricot filling and topped with a drizzle of sugary glaze—they’re such a treat that you’ll want to have to-go boxes at the ready in case there are any left.

What are kolaches?

Kolaches are sweet, yeast bread pastries that originated in the Czech Republic. They are typically filled with fruit, cheese or preserves. The name comes from the Czech word kolo, which means “wheel,” in reference to the pastry’s shape. Kolaches are commonly made for Christmas, Easter and special events like weddings and festivals.

In the United States, kolaches are most commonly found in Texas, due to the large population of Czech immigrants who settled there. In fact, the city of Caldwell has been officially designated the “Kolache Capital of Texas” by the state legislature. Texas kolaches range from traditional sweet, fruit- and cheese-filled pastries to more savory options filled with sausage or chile peppers. The shape of the savory versions is typically more oblong or rolled in appearance.

Ingredients for Apricot Kolaches

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Active dry yeast
• Salt
• 2% milk
• Butter
• Egg yolks
• Apricot filling

Glaze:

• Confectioners’ sugar
• Water

Directions

Step 1: Make the dough

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, the sugar, yeast and salt. In a saucepan, heat the milk and 1 cup of the butter over medium heat until it reaches 120° to 130°F. Remove the pan from the heat, and pour the milk-butter mixture into the dry ingredients, then beat until moistened. Add the egg yolks and beat on low for just 30 seconds, then beat on high for three more minutes. Gradually add in enough of the remaining flour to form a soft dough.

Step 2: Knead the dough, let it rise

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, then knead it until it’s smooth and elastic, six to eight minutes. Roll the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about one hour.

Step 3: Form the rolls

Punch down the dough, then turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into 1-1/2-inch balls, then flatten each ball into a 2-1/2-inch roll. Place the rolls 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Cover the baking sheet, and let the dough rise until it’s doubled in size again, about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Fill the rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°. Using the end of a wooden spoon, make a 1-1/2-inch indentation in the center of each roll. Fill each indentation with about 2 teaspoons of the apricot kolache filling. Melt the remaining butter, and use a pastry brush to brush it over the rolls.

Step 5: Bake the kolaches

Bake the kolaches for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the pans and let the kolaches cool on wire racks.

Step 6: Glaze the kolaches

Combine the glaze ingredients, then drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.

How to Store Apricot Kolaches

Let the kolaches cool completely, then store them in airtight containers at room temperature for up to three days. They will stay good in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Apricot Kolache Tips

What other filling can I use in apricot kolaches?

While apricot filling for kolaches is a tasty and popular choice, any fruit preserve will work in this dessert. For a bright flavor, this recipe for lemon kolaches is a terrific option. Cream cheese kolaches and poppy seed kolaches are also popular, and there’s no rule that says you can’t combine flavors, like apricot and cream cheese.

Can I make apricot kolaches ahead of time?

You can, and in fact, since making kolaches takes a bit of time due to the rising periods, making them ahead of time is a great idea. Simply store them in a good airtight container at room temperature overnight or until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with apricot kolaches?

Kolaches are terrific all by themselves or with a strong cup of coffee for breakfast. Since they are not overly sweet, they also make a terrific accompaniment to savory breakfast dishes, fruit salads or creamy yogurt. For a stand-alone dessert option, try adding a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top to make the rolls even more luxurious.