Kolacky, or Kolaczki, are delightful little pastries with a rich history rooted in Eastern European traditions. These buttery, soft treats filled with fruit preserves are often seen at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. But beyond the occasion, they are just plain comforting and delicious. The easy kolacky recipe I’m about to share comes from my family’s kitchen, where it’s been passed down through generations, tweaked over time, and perfected to bring joy in every bite.
Growing up, my grandmother would bake kolacky every Christmas, and the smell of the dough mixed with sweet fruit filling would make the entire house feel warm and festive. Even now, whenever I bake them, I feel a sense of nostalgia and connection to my family. These pastries are perfect for making memories, especially since they’re so easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting to explore the world of pastry, this easy kolacky recipe will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe and make some kolacky magic together!
What is Easy Kolacky Recipe?
Kolacky are traditional Polish pastries made from a soft, buttery dough that’s rolled into circles and filled with sweet fruit preserves, jam, or even cheese. The dough is tender and flaky, while the filling adds a burst of sweetness. They’re often folded or pinched at the edges to form a delicate, pillowy shape that’s irresistible.
This easy version of kolacky simplifies the process without sacrificing the taste or texture. You don’t need special equipment or extensive experience to create these pastries at home. The result? A batch of melt-in-your-mouth treats that will impress your friends and family, no matter the occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Kolacky Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this easy kolacky recipe. First off, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving something homemade. The dough comes together in a flash, and the fillings can be whatever your heart desires. Plus, kolacky are ideal for serving at parties, holiday dinners, or even as a sweet snack with your morning coffee.
The best part? This recipe is kid-friendly! If you’ve got little ones around, they’ll love helping you roll out the dough, fill the kolacky, and pinch them into shape. It’s an excellent way to get the whole family involved in baking. The recipe is also great for leftovers – kolacky taste just as delicious the next day, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks.
How to Make Easy Kolacky Recipe
Ready to bake? Here’s the step-by-step guide to making these irresistible kolacky. The process is easy, and you’ll be enjoying your freshly baked treats in no time!
Ingredients
Step 1:
Before you start baking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. For this easy kolacky recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 8 oz cream cheese, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup fruit preserves (apricot, strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite flavor)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Step 2: Make the Dough
Start by mixing the flour, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Add the cold butter and cream cheese cubes to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter and cream cheese into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t worry if it’s a bit crumbly – that’s okay! Then add the vanilla extract and gently mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface for just a minute or two to bring it together into a smooth ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up. This makes the dough easier to roll out.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Place a small spoonful of fruit preserves (about 1 teaspoon) in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling might spill out during baking.
Step 5: Shape the Kolacky
Carefully fold the edges of each dough circle over the filling to create a pinched or folded edge. You can leave the center open for a more rustic look or fold the sides towards the center to form a more structured shape. Press gently to seal the edges, ensuring that the filling stays inside.
Step 6: Bake the Kolacky
Place the filled and shaped kolacky on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a bit of space between each pastry. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the kolacky are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your homemade kolacky with a cup of tea or coffee!
What to Serve With
Kolacky are perfect on their own, but they’re also fantastic served with a warm beverage. Whether it’s a cup of rich coffee, a steaming mug of hot chocolate, or a classic afternoon tea, these pastries will make any gathering feel special. You can also serve them as part of a holiday spread, alongside other baked goods like cookies or cakes.
Top Tips for Easy Kolacky Recipe
- Chill the dough well: This step is crucial for achieving that soft, tender texture. Make sure the dough is thoroughly chilled before rolling it out.
- Use a variety of fillings: While fruit preserves are classic, feel free to get creative with your fillings. Try lemon curd, sweetened cream cheese, or even Nutella for a twist.
- Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the kolacky as they bake. You want them golden brown but not too dark.
- Pinch gently: When sealing the kolacky, be gentle so the filling stays intact. Overpressing might cause the dough to crack.
Storing and Reheating
Kolacky can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll still taste amazing the next day! If you want to store them longer, they can also be frozen. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry or shortcrust dough to make this recipe quicker. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package and adjust the filling amount accordingly.
Can I make kolacky ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough, shape the kolacky, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great way to prep for a party or busy week.
What are the best fillings for kolacky?
While fruit preserves like apricot, strawberry, and raspberry are the most common, you can also use lemon curd, chocolate, or sweetened cream cheese for a fun variation.
Can I make kolacky gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the texture of the dough remains similar by adjusting the liquid as needed.
How do I make kolacky more festive for the holidays?
Add a sprinkle of colored sugar or edible glitter on top after baking, or fill the kolacky with red and green fruit jams for a holiday touch!
Conclusion
Baking kolacky brings the warmth of tradition into your kitchen while offering a fun and easy way to treat your family or guests. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of your ancestors or creating new family traditions, these easy kolacky will undoubtedly be a hit in your home. Perfect for holidays, weeknight desserts, or even an afternoon snack, this recipe has you covered. Happy baking, and I hope you enjoy the deliciousness these kolacky bring to your table!
Easy Kolacky Recipe
Kochutensilien
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Round cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter)
Zutaten
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter cold and cut into small cubes
- 8 oz cream cheese cold and cut into cubes
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup fruit preserves apricot, strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite flavor
- Powdered sugar for dusting optional
Anleitungen
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold butter and cream cheese cubes, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix them until the dough resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla extract and mix gently until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough: Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Add the filling: Place about 1 teaspoon of fruit preserves in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.
- Shape the Kolacky: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a pinched or folded shape. Press gently to seal.
- Bake: Place the shaped Kolacky on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.