Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches

Texas Cream Cheese Kolaches

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

1/4 cup warm water (about 100–110°F)

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1/2 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup whole milk, room temperature

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)

1 teaspoon salt

1 large egg yolk

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg yolk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping:

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened or slightly chilled

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may no longer be active.

In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, milk, melted butter, and egg yolk until smooth. Add the yeast mixture and mix until fully incorporated.

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue until a soft, sticky dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a generously floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, even if it remains slightly sticky.

Lightly grease a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Once risen, gently press the dough down to release the air. Shape it into a log and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by beating together the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

After the second rise, create an indentation in the center of each dough ball by pressing down with a floured measuring cup or your fingers. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into each center, then brush the exposed dough edges with melted butter.

To make the topping, mix together the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the butter and work it in until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle a small amount over each kolache.

Cover the pan again and allow the kolaches to rise for another 1 to 2 hours, until they look puffy.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the kolaches for about 30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.

Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 1 hour before serving.