Cheese Kolacky

Cheese Kolacky Recipe - A Traditional Vegetarian Dish from Czech Republic

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Preparation time: 12 hours | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 36 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cheese Kolacky is a delicious pastry that originated in Eastern Europe. These sweet and savory pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. The combination of a flaky dough and a creamy cheese filling makes them irresistible to anyone who tries them.

History

The recipe for Cheese Kolacky has been passed down through generations in Eastern European families. It is a traditional pastry that is often made during holidays and special occasions. The name "Kolacky" comes from the Czech word "koláč," which means a small cake or pastry. These pastries are a staple in many Eastern European households and are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients

2 packages of active dry yeast
0.25 cup of water
7 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tsp of salt
2 cups of softened butter
4 eggs, slightly beaten
2 cups of whipping cream

Cheese filling

8 oz (227 g) of cream cheese
1 cup of cottage cheese
2 – 3 egg yolks
0.5 tsp of vanilla extract
0.25 cup of sugar

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients of the cheese filling and blend them in a food processor. Refrigerate until ready to use.
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water.
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Stir in the yeast, eggs, and whipping cream.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until it becomes smooth, which should take about 2 – 3 minutes.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, with the greased side facing up.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough until it becomes firm, which should take around 6 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough on a sugared or floured surface until it reaches a thickness of 0.13 inches.
Cut the dough into squares measuring 2.5 inches.
Spoon 1 tsp of the cheese filling into the center of each square.
Bring two opposite corners of each square to the center and pinch them to seal.
Moisten your fingertips with a little bit of water.
Fold the sealed tip to one side and pinch it to seal.
Place the sealed pastries 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 10 – 15 minutes or until they become lightly browned.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese filling for a warm and spicy flavor.
Top the pastries with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or feta, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up.

- Use a food processor to blend the ingredients for the cheese filling until smooth and creamy.

- When rolling out the dough, make sure it is evenly thick to ensure even baking.

- Seal the pastries tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

- Moisten your fingertips with water to help seal the pastries more easily.

Serving Suggestions

Cheese Kolacky can be served warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to blend the ingredients for the cheese filling until smooth and creamy.

- Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic to ensure a flaky pastry.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free version of the recipe.

- Substitute almond or soy milk for the whipping cream for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and cheese filling ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to bake, assemble the pastries and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Cheese Kolacky on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. Serve them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cheese Kolacky pairs well with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They also go well with a glass of milk or a fruity white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cheese Kolacky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cheese Kolacky contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cheese Kolacky contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cheese Kolacky contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cheese Kolacky contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheese Kolacky is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D due to the cheese filling.

Alergens

Cheese Kolacky contains dairy (butter, cream cheese, cottage cheese, eggs) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Cheese Kolacky is a delicious pastry that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a satisfying treat.

Summary

Cheese Kolacky is a delightful pastry that is perfect for any occasion. With a flaky dough and a creamy cheese filling, these pastries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Anna at her house. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing smell. I followed my nose to the source and found Anna's grandmother, Mrs. Novak, pulling a tray of golden brown Cheese Kolacky out of the oven.

I watched in awe as she deftly shaped the dough and filled it with a sweet cheese filling. Mrs. Novak noticed my interest and invited me to help her with the next batch. I eagerly accepted, and she patiently showed me each step of the process, from mixing the dough to shaping the kolacky.

As we worked, Mrs. Novak told me the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had brought it with her from the old country. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, with each family adding their own twist to it.

I was captivated by the history and tradition behind the Cheese Kolacky recipe. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Mrs. Novak kindly shared the recipe with me, and I made a mental note to try it out as soon as I got home.

When I finally tried my hand at making Cheese Kolacky, I found that it was more challenging than I had expected. The dough was sticky, and I struggled to shape it into neat little squares. But I persevered, remembering Mrs. Novak's patient guidance and the love and care that went into each batch.

After a few failed attempts, I finally managed to make a batch of Cheese Kolacky that I was proud of. The sweet cheese filling oozed out of the flaky pastry, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply heavenly. I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family and friends.

As I continued to make Cheese Kolacky, I experimented with different fillings and toppings. I added nuts and dried fruit for a bit of crunch, and sprinkled powdered sugar on top for a touch of sweetness. Each batch was a new adventure, and I loved the creativity and joy that came with baking.

Over the years, I made Cheese Kolacky for every occasion, from birthdays to holidays to simple Sunday dinners. My family and friends always looked forward to my homemade treats, and I was happy to share a taste of tradition with them.

As I grew older, I realized that the recipe for Cheese Kolacky was more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions. It was a link to my past, a connection to the generations that came before me. It was a reminder of the love and care that went into every meal, and the joy that comes from sharing food with those you love.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Cheese Kolacky to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same sense of pride and tradition that I do. I hope that they will take the time to slow down and savor the process of baking, and that they will remember the stories and memories that are woven into each batch of kolacky.

And so, as I mix the dough and shape the kolacky, I think of Mrs. Novak and the lessons she taught me. I think of the love and care that went into each batch, and I know that I am carrying on a tradition that will live on for generations to come. And as I take a bite of a freshly baked Cheese Kolacky, I am filled with a sense of joy and contentment, knowing that I am a part of something special.