Texas Sausage Kolaches Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast.

Warmed milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.

Beaten egg: Helps bind the dough together and adds richness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.

Sausages: The savory filling that makes these kolaches irresistible.

When kneading the dough, ensure that you use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. This technique helps develop the gluten, making the dough smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the kolaches dense.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the dough denser.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients without needing to be activated in water first.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a different flavor profile and can help keep the dough moist.

• warmed milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that still provides the necessary liquid and slight sweetness.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor and works well in baking.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) is a vegan alternative that helps bind the dough.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and may add a slightly different mineral taste.

• sausages - Substitute with vegetarian sausages: Vegetarian sausages provide a plant-based alternative while maintaining the texture and flavor profile.

• Allow the kolaches to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dough soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the kolaches in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness for up to a week.

• To freeze the kolaches, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh.

• Place the wrapped kolaches in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. This initial freezing step ensures they maintain their shape and don’t stick together.

• Once the kolaches are frozen solid, transfer them to a large resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the kolaches in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. For a quicker option, you can use the microwave on a low setting, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed kolaches on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps to restore their original texture and flavor.

• For a crispier exterior, you can also reheat the kolaches in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kolaches on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and the sausages are warm.

• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the kolaches on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you prefer a crispy exterior, use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the kolaches directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-12 minutes until the outside is crispy and the inside is warm.

• For an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the kolaches in the basket in a single layer and heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have a steamer, you can reheat the kolaches by placing them in the steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until they are heated through. This method keeps the dough soft and moist.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast, and later to mix in the melted butter, beaten egg, salt, and flour.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt and yeast.

• Whisk: Handy for beating the egg and ensuring the yeast mixture is well combined.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the dough until it forms.

• Floured surface: Needed for kneading the dough to achieve a smooth and elastic texture.

• Greased bowl: Place the dough in this bowl to let it rise.

• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: Cover the dough while it rises to keep it from drying out.

• Baking sheet: Use this to place the kolaches on for baking.

• Oven: Preheat and bake the kolaches to golden brown perfection.

• Knife or dough cutter: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.

• Pastry brush: Optional, but useful if you want to brush the kolaches with melted butter before baking for a shiny finish.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the cooking process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine the dough ingredients, saving you time and effort.

Pre-cook sausages: Slightly pre-cook the sausages to reduce baking time and ensure they are fully cooked.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a warm oven (around 100°F) to speed up the rising process.

Batch baking: Bake multiple kolaches at once to save time on multiple batches.