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Fruit Kolaches with Cream Cheese and Crumb Topping Recipe

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3.8 from 76 reviews

Fruit Kolaches are delightful, soft yeast rolls filled with sweet fruit jam and a creamy cheese topping, finished with a crunchy crumb topping. These tender pastries are perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack and combine a buttery dough with luscious fruit filling and a smooth cream cheese layer, all baked to golden perfection.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 kolaches

Ingredients

Dough

  • ¾ cup whole milk, warmed to 100-110℉
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3½ cups bread flour

Fruit Filling

  • ¾ cup fruit jam

Cream Cheese Topping

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

Crumb Topping

  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Egg Wash

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Cover and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is foamy on top. Then add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and bread flour. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. Continue mixing for another 2-3 minutes until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball that pulls away from the bowl sides.
  2. First Rise: Lightly flour a clean surface and shape the dough into a ball. Coat a large bowl with cooking spray, place the dough inside, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
  3. Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  4. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Press the dough into a rectangle and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into smooth balls by stretching and pinching the dough. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Second Rise: Cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel and allow the dough balls to rise until puffy, about 45 minutes.
  6. Prepare Cream Cheese Topping: While the dough rises, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt with a hand mixer until smooth and silky.
  7. Preheat Oven: Adjust the oven rack to the center and preheat the oven to 375℉ (190℃).
  8. Fill the Kolaches: With a rounded measuring cup or small shot glass, gently press the center of each roll to create a well, pressing twice if it rises back. Brush the tops with the egg wash. Spoon a moderate amount of fruit jam into each indentation, followed by a dollop of the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle the crumb topping over each roll.
  9. Bake: Bake the kolaches for 20-23 minutes until the tops are lightly golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking. If the tops brown excessively, tent with aluminum foil. The internal temperature should register 190℉ (88℃) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
  10. Cool and Store: Allow the kolaches to cool for several minutes before serving. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 4-7 days.

Notes

  • Make sure the milk is warmed to the correct temperature (100-110℉) to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
  • Do not overfill the kolaches with jam to prevent bubbling over during baking.
  • The dough should feel soft and slightly sticky but still manageable; add a bit more flour if it’s too wet.
  • Using a stand mixer with a dough hook simplifies kneading, but the dough can also be mixed and kneaded by hand.
  • You can substitute the fruit jam with your favorite preserves or homemade fruit fillings.
  • The cream cheese topping can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  • Ensure second rise is completed for fluffy, light rolls.
  • Crumb topping adds texture and sweetness; don’t skip for best results.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 23 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian