Imagine biting into a delicate, buttery pastry filled with luscious apricot preserves that transports you straight to the charming countryside of Hungary. These Traditional Hungarian Apricot Kolaches are more than just a dessert—they're a culinary journey that combines centuries-old baking techniques with irresistible flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious food lover, this recipe promises to transform your kitchen into a Hungarian bakery and impress everyone who takes a single bite.
Prep Time: 1 hrs
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Hungarian
Serves: 36 kolaches
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apricot preserves
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and well combined, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-cream cheese mixture, continuing to mix until fully incorporated and the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and sugar to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft, pliable dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to allow it to firm up and become easier to handle.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Using a round cookie cutter or drinking glass (approximately 2-3 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough.
- Place a small teaspoon of apricot preserves in the center of each dough circle.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough towards the center, creating a slight overlap and pinching the edges to seal, forming a traditional kolache shape.
- Arrange the kolaches on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the kolaches cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Keep your ingredients at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Chill the dough thoroughly—this helps prevent spreading and maintains the kolaches' delicate shape.
- Use high-quality apricot preserves for the most authentic flavor.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can make the kolaches tough instead of tender.
- Use a precise measuring technique for flour to ensure the right dough consistency.
- Experiment with different fruit preserves if apricot isn't your favorite.
- Allow kolaches to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
- For an extra touch of elegance, use a pastry brush to lightly egg wash the edges before baking for a golden sheen.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
