These Strawberry Rhubarb Kolaches are a heavenly combination of fresh, sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb wrapped in a soft, flaky dough. The golden crust and vibrant filling create a perfect balance of flavors and textures in each bite.
The beautiful contrast of the pinkish fruit filling with the golden dough makes this treat a visual delight, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or at a special gathering, these kolaches will surely impress with their charm and delicious flavor. The powdered sugar dusting adds an extra touch of sweetness to each pastry, making every bite irresistible.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup sugar
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1 packet active dry yeast
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
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1/2 cup rhubarb, chopped
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1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Set aside.
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In a separate bowl, heat the milk in the microwave or over the stove until warm, then stir in the melted butter. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and knead until a dough forms. Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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While the dough rises, prepare the strawberry rhubarb filling. In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until thickened and bubbly (about 10 minutes). Set aside to cool.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle and cut it into 8 equal squares.
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Place a spoonful of the strawberry rhubarb filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the dough to the center, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside.
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Place the filled dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush each kolache with a beaten egg to create a golden crust.
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Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the kolaches are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 8 kolaches
Introduction to Strawberry Rhubarb Kolaches
Strawberry rhubarb kolaches are a delightful pastry that blends the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, all wrapped in a soft, golden-brown dough. These kolaches are not only delicious but also offer a unique take on traditional Czech pastries. Originating in Central Europe, kolaches are typically filled with fruit, sweet cheeses, or even meats, depending on the region. However, the strawberry and rhubarb combination brings a fresh, seasonal twist to this beloved treat, making it perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
The flaky pastry is light and airy, while the filling is both sweet and tangy, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as a breakfast treat, dessert, or an afternoon snack with tea or coffee, strawberry rhubarb kolaches are versatile and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. These pastries are a wonderful way to showcase the fresh flavors of the season, using ingredients like ripe strawberries and tangy rhubarb, which are commonly found in gardens and farmers’ markets during the warmer months.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Rhubarb Kolaches
There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a freshly baked kolache. The combination of soft, warm dough with a luscious filling of sweet fruit is simply irresistible. Strawberry rhubarb kolaches, in particular, offer a wonderful contrast in flavors and textures. The sweetness of the strawberries balances the tartness of the rhubarb, while the dough’s flakiness adds another layer of satisfaction with each bite.
Additionally, these kolaches are incredibly easy to make at home. Unlike many other pastry recipes that require advanced baking skills, kolaches are quite forgiving, making them accessible even for beginner bakers. The dough is simple to prepare and doesn’t require any special equipment, making this recipe an excellent choice for those who enjoy baking but prefer recipes that don’t involve too many complicated steps.
The Perfect Combination of Flavors: Strawberry and Rhubarb
Strawberries and rhubarb are a match made in heaven, and they’ve been paired together in countless desserts for a reason. Rhubarb, with its tart and slightly sour flavor, complements the natural sweetness of strawberries perfectly. When cooked together, the two create a dynamic filling that balances sweet and tangy, resulting in a vibrant, flavorful treat that excites the taste buds.
The beauty of strawberry rhubarb kolaches lies in their ability to highlight these two ingredients while still allowing the rich, buttery dough to shine. The pastry acts as a perfect vessel for the fruity filling, absorbing some of the tangy sweetness while maintaining its flaky texture. This balance of sweet and tart, along with the lightness of the dough, creates a pastry that is not too heavy but rather satisfying and refreshing.
Kolaches: A Tradition Worth Celebrating
Kolaches have a rich history that dates back to Central Europe, particularly in Czech and Slovakian cultures. Immigrants from these regions brought their baking traditions with them to the United States, particularly to areas like Texas, where kolaches became a popular part of the culinary landscape. Traditionally, kolaches are filled with a variety of ingredients, from fruit to sweet cheese and even savory fillings like sausage or poppy seeds.
The beauty of kolaches lies in their versatility. They can be made sweet or savory, depending on your preference. While the strawberry rhubarb filling is a modern take, traditional fillings like apricot, prune, or even sweet cheese remain popular choices. The simple dough and the ease of preparation make kolaches a perfect food for celebrations, family gatherings, or a cozy breakfast at home.
Making the Dough: The Key to Flaky Perfection
The dough used for these strawberry rhubarb kolaches is the foundation of the pastry. A good dough will yield a flaky, tender result that complements the fruit filling without overwhelming it. The dough is made from simple ingredients like flour, sugar, yeast, milk, butter, and eggs. The yeast helps the dough rise and gives it a light texture, while the butter adds richness and flavor.
One of the secrets to achieving a perfectly flaky dough is allowing the dough to rise properly. Giving the dough time to rest and rise will ensure that the kolaches turn out soft and airy rather than dense. Be sure to knead the dough gently and not overwork it, as this could result in a tough texture. Once the dough has risen, it can be easily rolled out and cut into squares for filling.
Filling the Kolaches: Strawberry and Rhubarb Harmony
The strawberry rhubarb filling is what makes these kolaches so special. Fresh strawberries and rhubarb are combined with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick, sweet, and tangy filling. The cornstarch helps to thicken the mixture and prevent it from being too runny when baked.
As the filling cooks, the strawberries release their juice, which blends with the tartness of the rhubarb to create a flavorful and vibrant mixture. This filling is then spooned into the center of the dough squares before being folded up and sealed. The result is a beautiful pocket of sweet and tangy goodness that is just waiting to be enjoyed.
Baking the Kolaches to Golden Perfection
Once the kolaches are filled, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection. The dough should puff up and turn golden brown during baking, with the fruit filling bubbling slightly at the edges. Brushing the dough with an egg wash before baking helps achieve that beautiful golden crust that makes the kolaches look as good as they taste.
It’s important to keep an eye on the kolaches while they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. Typically, baking them at 375°F for about 15-18 minutes will result in a perfect golden-brown pastry. Once they’re baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness and makes them look even more inviting.
Serving and Enjoying Your Kolaches
These strawberry rhubarb kolaches are best served fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and the filling is gooey. However, they also keep well for a day or two if stored in an airtight container, making them an excellent option for preparing ahead of time. They can be enjoyed as a breakfast pastry, a dessert, or a snack during the day.
Pairing them with a cup of coffee or tea enhances the experience and makes for a perfect afternoon treat. You can also serve them at brunch or as part of a dessert spread for gatherings and celebrations. Their vibrant filling and flaky crust are sure to be a hit with friends and family, making these kolaches a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire.
Why You Should Make Strawberry Rhubarb Kolaches
Making strawberry rhubarb kolaches at home not only gives you the satisfaction of baking from scratch, but it also allows you to enjoy a fresh, homemade pastry that’s far superior to anything you can buy in a store. The quality of ingredients, the flaky texture of the dough, and the vibrant fruit filling make these kolaches truly exceptional.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize the filling to your taste. While the strawberry and rhubarb combination is a classic, feel free to experiment with other fruits or even savory fillings like cheese or meat. Kolaches are a blank canvas, allowing you to get creative with the fillings and toppings.
Conclusion
Strawberry rhubarb kolaches are a delightful pastry that combines the flavors of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb, all wrapped in a soft, buttery dough. These kolaches are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family brunch, a picnic, or a special dessert to impress your guests. The combination of flaky dough and vibrant fruit filling makes these kolaches a true crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, delicious, and rewarding to make. The beauty of these kolaches lies in their balance of flavors and textures, making them a treat that everyone can enjoy. So, grab some fresh strawberries and rhubarb, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the best homemade pastries you’ve ever tasted.