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Sourdough Discard Kolaches

These Sourdough Discard Kolaches are soft, fluffy pastries filled with your choice of sweet or savory fillings, perfect for using up sourdough discard while enjoying a delicious treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ⅓ cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 2 large eggs, divided
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup fruit jam or sweet cheese filling (for sweet kolaches) or 1 cup cooked sausage or ham and cheese (for savory kolaches)
  • 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, 1 egg, melted butter, and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture to the sourdough mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Using your thumb, create a well in the center of each dough round to hold the filling.
  10. Fill each well with about 1 tablespoon of your chosen filling.
  11. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolk and water for the egg wash. Brush the edges of each kolache lightly.
  12. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  13. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For an extra glossy finish, brush baked kolaches with melted butter once they come out of the oven. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.