Elsie Hronek’s Kolaches Recipe
Description:
Elsie Hronek’s Kolaches are a cherished family tradition, hailing from the Bohemian roots of my wife’s grandmother. Passed down through generations, these delightful pastries evoke memories of joyous family gatherings and the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. Every bite tells a story of love and heritage, making them an indispensable part of our family celebrations. Whether it’s a spring picnic, a summer brunch, or a cozy winter afternoon, these kolaches bring warmth and happiness to any occasion.
If prunes aren’t your thing, fear not! Feel free to experiment with any fruit filling of your choice. The recipe graciously accommodates a variety of flavors, ensuring everyone finds a kolache to love.
Recipe Details:
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 kolaches
- Category: Yeast Breads
- Keywords: Breads, Grains, Fruit, Czech, European, Spring, Summer, Winter, Christmas, < 60 Mins, Oven
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 164.5
- Fat Content: 5.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 43.8mg
- Sodium Content: 230.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 25.1g
- Fiber Content: 0.8g
- Sugar Content: 4.2g
- Protein Content: 3.9g
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sugar | 2 cups |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Flour | 6 cups |
| Prunes | 4 |
| Cinnamon | To taste |
Instructions:
Prune Topping:
- Cook prunes in water until soft.
- Beat until well mashed.
- Add sugar and cinnamon to taste.
- Set aside and allow to cool.
Kolaches:
- Put yeast in 1/2 cup warm water with 1 tsp sugar.
- Scald 1 1/2 cups milk.
- Add 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and 1/2 tsp salt to the scalded milk in a large bowl.
- Beat in 2 cups flour.
- Add beaten egg yolks and remaining 3 cups flour.
- Put the dough on a flat surface and knead until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased, large bowl and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into large walnut-sized balls and place them on a greased cookie sheet.
- Dip your finger in melted butter and make a ‘well’ in the top surface of each ball.
- Fill each ‘well’ with prune filling and let it set for approximately 10 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and brush the bread surface with more butter.
- Optional: Sprinkle the top with coconut for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
These kolaches are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they also freeze well for future indulgence. Serve them alongside your favorite hot beverage and share the love and tradition with your friends and family. From our kitchen to yours, may these Elsie Hronek’s Kolaches bring warmth and happiness to your home! 🥐✨
