Prune Kolaches: A Traditional Delight

Prune kolaches are a delightful pastry that combines a rich, buttery dough with a sweet and tangy prune filling. Originating from Central Europe, these pastries have become a beloved treat in many parts of the world, especially in areas with strong Czech and Slovak influences. This guide will explore the history, recipe, and variations of prune kolaches, providing everything you need to know about this delicious pastry.

 

What Are Prune Kolaches?

 

Description

Prune kolaches are round pastries made from a soft, yeast-based dough, filled with a sweet prune filling. The dough is rich and buttery, while the prune filling provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. They are often topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a simple glaze.

 

Ingredients

The main ingredients for prune kolaches include:

  • Flour: All-purpose flour is commonly used.
  • Yeast: For leavening the dough.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
  • Butter: For a tender, rich dough.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
  • Eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
  • Prunes: The main ingredient for the filling, usually cooked down to a jam-like consistency.
  • Lemon Juice and Zest: Often added to the prune filling for extra flavor.

History of Prune Kolaches

 

Origins

Kolaches originated in Central Europe, particularly in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. They were traditionally made for special occasions and celebrations. Prune kolaches, specifically, have been a popular variant due to the availability of prunes and their suitability as a filling.

 

Cultural Significance

In many Czech and Slovak communities, kolaches are a symbol of hospitality and celebration. They are often made for holidays, weddings, and other significant events. The tradition of making kolaches has been passed down through generations, preserving this delicious heritage.

 

How to Make Prune Kolaches

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:

    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
    • 1 cup milk, warmed
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • For the Prune Filling:

    • 2 cups prunes, pitted
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    • Water, as needed

 

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Prune Filling:

    • Place the prunes in a saucepan with enough water to cover them. Simmer until they are soft and the water has mostly evaporated.
    • Add the sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook until the mixture thickens, then mash or blend until smooth. Set aside to cool.

  2. Make the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
    • In another bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and eggs.
    • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours.

  3. Shape and Fill the Kolaches:

    • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal pieces, about the size of a golf ball.
    • Flatten each piece into a small disk and place a spoonful of the prune filling in the center.
    • Pull the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball. Place the filled kolaches seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  4. Second Rise:

    • Cover the kolaches with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

  5. Bake:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake the kolaches for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
    • Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

  6. Serve:

    • Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

Variations

  1. Cheese Kolaches: Fill with a sweetened cream cheese mixture.
  2. Fruit Kolaches: Use other fruit fillings like apricot, cherry, or blueberry.
  3. Savory Kolaches: Fill with sausage, cheese, and jalapeños for a savory twist.

 

Conclusion

Prune kolaches are a delicious and traditional pastry that offers a taste of Central European heritage. With their rich dough and sweet prune filling, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic prune filling or experiment with other variations, kolaches are sure to delight your taste buds and become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful pastry with family and friends!




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