Apricot Kolache Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until combined.
5. Add the vanilla extract and sour cream and mix until combined.
6. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the dried apricots and walnuts.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
9. Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Brush the tops of the kolaches with the apricot preserves.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Let cool before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 kolaches

Nutritional Information (per kolache):
Calories: 130
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Protein: 2 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Sugar: Can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple syrup.
- Eggs: Can be substituted with flax eggs.
- Sour cream: Can be substituted with Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for a different flavor.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced flavor.
- Substitute the apricot preserves with raspberry or strawberry preserves.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before adding it to the mixture.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Use a pastry brush to evenly spread the preserves on top of the kolaches.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the kolaches on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the kolaches are too dry, add a little more sour cream.

Food Safety Advice:
Keep the kolaches stored in an airtight container and consume within 3 days.

Food History:
Kolaches are a traditional pastry from Central Europe, typically filled with fruit or cheese.

Flavor Profiles:
The kolaches are sweet and nutty with a hint of apricot.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or a snack.

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Region: Czech

Taste: Sweet, Fruity, Buttery, Nutty, Spicy