Sour Cream Kolatchen Recipe

History of Sour Cream Kolatchen:

Sour Cream Kolatchen is a traditional Czech pastry that has been enjoyed for many generations. The word "kolatchen" comes from the Czech word "koláč," which means round cake or pastry. The recipe has its roots in Czech Republic, a country known for its rich culinary heritage.

Fun Fact: The sour cream kolatchen is often associated with special occasions and holidays, such as Christmas and Easter. It is a beloved treat enjoyed by families and friends during festive gatherings.

Recipe for Sour Cream Kolatchen:

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 5 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Grated rind of a lemon
- 1 cup thick sour cream
- 1 ounce or 2 cakes of yeast
- 2 tablespoons lukewarm milk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Raisins or cherries for topping
- 1 egg white, beaten
- Sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the egg yolks, sugar, and grated lemon rind. Mix well to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm milk with a little sugar. Stir until the yeast is fully dissolved.
4. Add the sour cream to the butter mixture and mix well.
5. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture while continuing to mix.
6. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
7. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
8. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until the dough doubles in size.
9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease baking pans.
10. Punch down the risen dough and pinch off tablespoons of dough. Shape them into small round cakes and place them on the greased pans.
11. Press a raisin or cherry into the center of each cake.
12. Brush the tops of the cakes with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sugar.
13. Bake the sour cream kolatchen for approximately 10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
14. Remove from the oven and let them cool on wire racks before serving.

Serve the Sour Cream Kolatchen warm or at room temperature. These delectable pastries are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. They can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or even for breakfast.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Poppy Seed Kolatchen: Replace the raisins or cherries in the topping with a filling made from poppy seeds, sugar, and a little milk. These kolatchen have a nutty and sweet flavor.

2. Nut Kolatchen: Instead of raisins or cherries, use a mixture of ground nuts, sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. This variation adds a delightful crunch to the pastries.

3. Fruit Kolatchen: Fill the center of each cake with your favorite jam or preserves. This variation adds a burst of fruity goodness to the traditional sour cream kolatchen.

These variations allow for creativity and personal preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different fillings, Sour Cream Kolatchen remains a cherished pastry that brings people together to share delicious moments. Enjoy!