There’s something truly special about the transformation of leftover sourdough discard into something divine. When I first experimented with making kolaches, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such tender pastries bursting with flavor. These Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches, with their creamy filling and delightful streusel topping, are the ultimate answer to your brunch cravings. The tang of the sourdough adds a unique depth that you won’t find in traditional pastries, making each bite a satisfying surprise.
Imagine enjoying one of these warm kolaches alongside your morning coffee or tea, feeling the comfort they bring with every delicious mouthful. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day, these kolaches not only make use of what might have gone to waste but also elevate your brunch table to a whole new level. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s bound to impress your family and friends alike!
Why are Sourdough Discard Kolaches a Must-Try?
Unique Twist: These kolaches transform sourdough discard into an irresistible treat, ensuring no food goes to waste.
Irresistibly Creamy: The cream cheese filling adds a luscious texture that balances perfectly with the soft kolache.
Versatile Flavor: With options to customize fillings, you can delight culinary adventurers and traditionalists alike!
Easy to Master: This recipe is beginner-friendly, encouraging even novice bakers to create show-stopping pastries.
Brunch Showstopper: These kolaches elevate any breakfast or brunch spread, making them a sure crowd-pleaser. Plus, check out how to make different fillings for even more delicious variety!
Sourdough Discard Kolaches Ingredients
For the Dough
• Einkorn Flour – Adds depth of flavor and nutrients; substitute with regular all-purpose flour if necessary.
• Spelt Flour – Provides a slightly nutty sweetness; can be replaced by whole wheat flour if needed.
• Sourdough Starter – Contributes unique flavor and aids in rising; essential for this recipe.
• Milk – Provides moisture for the dough; whole or 2% preferred.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness; adjust based on preferred filling flavors.
• Eggs (whole and yolk) – Essential for structure and richness; be sure to include.
• Butter (melted) – Important for richness and moisture, making the dough tender.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – Main filling for that creamy texture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese; a must for that extra depth.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the filling and balances sweetness, creating a delightful contrast.
For the Streusel Topping
• Flour – Combined with sugar and chilled butter to create a crumbly topping; ensure butter is cold for the best texture.
• Sugar – Sweetens the topping, adding a delightful crunch on top of the kolaches.
• Chilled Butter – Provides a rich flavor and crumbly texture; keep it cold to achieve the best streusel.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Kolaches
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Prepare Dough Mix: In a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine the einkorn flour, spelt flour, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and sourdough starter. Blend until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead Dough: Increase the mixer speed and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic to the touch. This step is key for achieving that tender texture!
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First Rise: Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. For added flavor, refrigerate the dough overnight after rising.
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Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth. Chill the filling in the refrigerator while you work on the next steps.
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Make Streusel: In another bowl, combine flour and sugar, then rub in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Refrigerate this topping for a crispy texture later.
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Shape Kolaches: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into an equal number of pieces. Shape each into a ball and place them on a lined baking sheet. Let them rise for another 2-3 hours, covered, until puffy.
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Fill and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Press wells into the center of each dough ball, fill with the cream cheese mixture, sprinkle with streusel on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the kolaches to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Sourdough Discard Kolaches
- Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is not overly sticky; add minimal flour during kneading to achieve the right texture.
- Optimal Rise Time: Allow adequate rise time for sourdough; it should visibly puff up, ensuring light and airy kolaches.
- Room Temperature Cheese: Always use room temperature cream cheese for your filling to prevent lumps and achieve a silky smooth blend.
- Streusel Importance: Don’t skip the streusel topping; it adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the soft kolache.
- Deep Wells: Press deep enough wells into the dough before filling; this prevents overflow and keeps your creamy filling beautifully contained.
Storage Tips for Sourdough Discard Kolaches
- Room Temperature: Keep kolaches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and enjoyable for quick snacking.
- Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring they are tightly wrapped or in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Freeze Sourdough Discard Kolaches for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, making it easy to enjoy later without compromising flavor.
- Reheating: For the best experience, reheat any leftover kolaches in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This refreshes the texture and taste beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours after the first rise to enhance the flavor. While the dough is chilling, make the cream cheese filling and streusel topping, storing them in the refrigerator for the same duration. When you’re ready to serve, simply shape the kolaches and let them rise for about 2-3 hours before baking. This approach not only saves you time on busy mornings but also ensures that your kolaches are just as delicious, with a tender texture and rich creaminess that everyone will love!
Sourdough Discard Kolaches Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your kolaches with these delightful twists!
- Fruit-Filled: Swap the cream cheese for your favorite fruit preserves or jams for a burst of flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese filling for a satisfying crunch! This extra texture makes each bite more exciting.
- Spiced Apple: Incorporate diced apples and cinnamon into the cream cheese filling for a seasonal treat. It evokes cozy autumn vibes in every mouthful.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and a plant-based milk instead for a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like dill or chives into the cream cheese filling for a savory twist that’s perfect for brunch gatherings.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling to turn these kolaches into a decadent dessert option. Each bite deliciously melts in your mouth!
- Citrus Zing: Add zest from oranges or limes to the cream cheese filling for an uplifting citrus flavor that brightens up your kolaches.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make these kolaches accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure to adjust the liquid accordingly for the best texture.
What to Serve with Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches?
These delightful pastries shine brightest when paired with complementary dishes that enhance their comforting flavors.
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Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the kolaches. This classic pairing brings warmth and richness to your breakfast table.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, juicy element that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese filling. The burst of flavors elevates your brunch experience!
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Crispy Bacon: The salty, crunchy goodness of crispy bacon adds a surprising twist that complements the sweetness of the kolaches. Together, they create a satisfying and hearty meal.
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Rich Coffee: A bold cup of coffee perfectly harmonizes with the tangy sweetness of the kolaches, enhancing each bite. It’s the ultimate way to kickstart your morning!
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Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal tea with hints of citrus or mint offers a refreshing sip that pairs harmoniously with the creamy filling, making your brunch feel even more special.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh fruits provides a creamy bite that pairs beautifully with the kolaches. The crunchy granola adds texture while balancing the flavors.
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Custard Cream: A light dollop of vanilla or lemon custard can deepen the dessert flavor experience, making every bite of kolach feel like an indulgent treat.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider introduces cozy, autumnal notes that enhance the sourdough flavor, making it an inviting drink choice for any brunch affair.
Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches Recipe FAQs
What type of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely! Any active sourdough starter works for this recipe. If your starter has been sitting in the fridge, just give it a feed and let it become bubbly before using it in your kolaches. This ensures a beautiful rise and that delightful tanginess!
How long can I store Sourdough Discard Kolaches?
These delicious kolaches remain best when enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days to keep their softness.
Can I freeze leftover kolaches?
Very much so! To freeze your kolaches, simply allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes!
What if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is on the sticky side while kneading, don’t panic! Simply sprinkle a little bit of flour onto your hands and the surface, and continue kneading gently until the dough comes together. Aim for a soft, elastic dough that doesn’t cling too much to your fingers.
Can I use gluten-free flours in this recipe?
Very! You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but keep in mind the texture may vary. I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour that includes xanthan gum to help mimic the elasticity of traditional flour. Since this could alter the taste and density, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the moisture in your dough.
Are there any allergies I should consider with the ingredients?
Certainly! The main allergens in this recipe are dairy and gluten. If you have a dairy allergy, you could substitute the cream cheese filling with a non-dairy alternative such as vegan cream cheese or silken tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice and vanilla. Always make sure to check the labels for any allergen warnings!
Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches for a Cozy Brunch Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Dough Mix: In a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine the einkorn flour, spelt flour, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and sourdough starter. Blend until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Increase the mixer speed and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic to the touch.
- First Rise: Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Make Streusel: In another bowl, combine flour and sugar, then rub in the chilled butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Shape Kolaches: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into pieces. Shape into balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Let rise for another 2-3 hours.
- Fill and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Press wells into each dough ball, fill with cream cheese mixture, sprinkle with streusel on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Allow kolaches to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Enjoy warm for the best experience!