Classic Fruit Kolaches

Indulge in the delightful world of Classic Fruit Kolaches, a beloved treat that melts in your mouth and brings joy to your taste buds. Glen and Sue Ellen Borkholder from Sturgis, Michigan, share their love for creating these delectable goodies, offering a delightful twist to this classic recipe by using Christmas cookie cutters instead of a biscuit cutter for added fun.

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 to 7 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 packages (¼ ounce each) active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cups 2% milk
• ½ cup butter, cubed
• ½ cup water
• 6 egg yolks
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 can (12 ounces) raspberry and/or apricot cake and pastry filling

ICING:

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 to 6 tablespoons 2% milk

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a large saucepan, heat the milk, cubed butter, and water to 120°-130°F. Add to the dry ingredients and beat just until moistened. Add the egg yolks and beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (the dough will be sticky). Do not knead. Cover and let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.
2. Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface and roll it to a ½-inch thickness. Cut the dough with a floured 2½-inch biscuit cutter. Place the cut pieces 2 inches apart on lightly greased baking sheets. Brush the tops with melted butter, cover, and let them rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
3. Using the back of a spoon, make an indentation in the center of each roll. Spoon a heaping teaspoonful of raspberry and/or apricot filling into each indentation. Bake the kolaches at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, remove them from the pans and allow them to cool on wire racks.
4. For the icing, combine the confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, salt, and enough milk to achieve the desired consistency. Drizzle the icing over the cooled rolls.

YIELD: Makes 2½ dozen kolaches

PREP TIME: 35 minutes (+ rising)

BAKE TIME: 15-20 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS AND TIPS:

• Tip 1: Experiment with different fruit fillings, such as cherry, blueberry, or peach, to create a variety of flavors.
• Tip 2: If you don’t have a biscuit cutter or Christmas cookie cutters, you can use a round glass or jar to cut the dough into circles.
• Tip 3: Serve the kolaches warm for a delightful and comforting treat.

In conclusion, Classic Fruit Kolaches are a heavenly delight that has won the hearts of many, including Glen and Sue Ellen Borkholder from Sturgis, Michigan, who love making these melt-in-your-mouth goodies. This cherished recipe takes a creative twist by using Christmas cookie cutters instead of a biscuit cutter, making the baking process even more enjoyable.

These kolaches offer a delightful combination of soft, fluffy dough and flavorful fruit fillings that make each bite a joyous experience. The sweet dough, made with love and care, is complemented by the richness of raspberry and/or apricot cake and pastry filling. Each kolache holds a delightful surprise at its center, creating a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors.

As the kolaches bake to perfection, their delightful aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge in this beloved treat. The tender and pillowy dough, gently kissed with a hint of butter, pairs perfectly with the luscious fruit filling.

Once cooled, the kolaches are adorned with a velvety sweet icing, creating a captivating drizzle that adds a touch of elegance. The icing beautifully ties all the flavors together, turning each kolache into a delectable work of art.

Classic Fruit Kolaches are perfect for any occasion, from morning breakfasts to afternoon tea gatherings. These delightful treats bring comfort and warmth to any table, making them a cherished addition to family traditions and celebrations.

In conclusion, Classic Fruit Kolaches celebrate the beauty of simplicity and the joy of savoring the little pleasures in life. Embrace the spirit of creativity by using different fruit fillings and cookie cutters, infusing each batch with your personal touch. Whether served warm or enjoyed at room temperature, these kolaches are sure to become a treasured favorite among family and friends.