As the first golden rays of sunlight spill into my kitchen, the warm aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air—setting the stage for a delightful morning ritual. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches with Cream Cheese Filling, a scrumptious option that transforms your sourdough discard into something truly special. Not only do these kolaches make an enticing breakfast or brunch treat, but they also celebrate sustainability by minimizing food waste. With a tender, flaky dough crafted from ancient grains and a sweet cream cheese center, they’re sure to impress everyone at your table. Ready to elevate your mornings? Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe that will leave you and your loved ones craving more!
Why are these kolaches a must-try?
Delectable and Unique: These kolaches feature a tangy twist of sourdough discard, transforming your leftovers into a scrumptious treat.
Versatile Fillings: You’re not limited to cream cheese; you can easily swap in fruit preserves or sweetened ricotta—perfect if you want to try different flavors!
Flaky Perfection: The combination of ancient grains creates a tender, flaky dough that’s unlike any typical pastry, offering a delightful bite.
Time-Efficient Delight: Made without complex techniques, you can whip these up quickly, making them an easy addition to your breakfast or brunch.
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy morning at home, these kolaches are sure to impress. Pair them with fresh fruit or serve alongside dishes like Healthy Stovetop Chili for a satisfying meal.
Get ready to have your mornings transformed with this delicious recipe!
Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches Ingredients
Transform your sourdough discard into delightful kolaches with this ingredient guide!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Base for the dough; provides structure. Substitute with einkorn flour for richer flavor, adjusting liquid accordingly.
- Einkorn Flour – Adds depth of flavor; can be used instead of all-purpose flour but requires careful moisture adjustment.
- Spelt Flour – Contributes a nutty sweetness; can be replaced with whole wheat flour for additional health benefits.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; essential for seasoning every bite.
- Milk – Adds moisture; swap for dairy-free alternatives if preferred.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; for a vegan option, consider using a flax egg.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough; can be adjusted to your taste.
- Butter – Provides richness and flavor; melted for easy mixing.
- Sourdough Starter – Adds tanginess and helps with leavening; crucial for that traditional sourdough flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Cream Cheese – Filling ingredient; must be softened for easy mixing. Avoid melted cream cheese for best texture.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness to the filling; adjust to taste for a zingy kick.
- Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens mixture; can be tailored to your preference.
For the Streusel Topping
- Flour – Base for the topping; provides that treasured texture.
- Sugar – Sweetens the streusel; don’t skip this for added deliciousness!
- Cold Butter – Ensures a sandy texture; keep it chilled until mixing.
Make these Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches a staple in your kitchen and enjoy a mindful approach to using every part of your sourdough starter!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches
Step 1: Dough Prep
In a stand mixer, blend all-purpose flour with salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, sugar, egg, and egg yolk. Stir in the sourdough starter until combined. Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic; it should be pliable but not sticky.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer your dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. For enhanced flavor, you can refrigerate the dough overnight, which also helps to develop a deeper texture that enhances the final Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches.
Step 3: Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar, flour, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice to introduce a refreshing zest; mix until well incorporated. Cover and refrigerate the filling until it’s needed later, ensuring it stays cool and firm for easy filling of the kolaches.
Step 4: Streusel Topping
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and sugar for the streusel topping. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill the streusel in the refrigerator until you’re ready to add it to the kolaches. This will create a wonderful texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough.
Step 5: Shaping Kolaches
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air and divide it into 9 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the shaped dough balls with a towel and let them rise again until they double in size, approximately 2-3 hours, allowing for better texture in your Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches.
Step 6: Pre-Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When the dough balls have risen adequately, carefully create a well in the center of each with your fingers or a measuring cup. Fill each well with the chilled cream cheese mixture and generously sprinkle streusel topping over the filling, ensuring an even distribution across all kolaches.
Step 7: Baking
Place the kolaches in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top. About halfway through, keep an eye on them for even browning. Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes before serving, enhancing the flavors of these delightful Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches.
What to Serve with Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches
Enhance your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement these tender, flaky treats.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Their soft texture and rich flavor beautifully balance the sweetness of the kolaches, creating a satisfying breakfast plate.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy berries, peaches, and melons brings a refreshing zing, elevating your brunch with vibrant colors and textures.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the overall sweetness, adding a touch of indulgence to each bite of kolache.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crispiness of bacon provides a savory contrast, making for a hearty and balanced breakfast spread everyone will love.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea adds a soothing element, perfect for enjoying with the slightly tangy flavor of the kolaches.
- Vanilla Yogurt: Smooth, creamy yogurt serves as a delicious dip, enhancing the flavors while introducing a creamy texture that complements the kolaches.
- Homemade Jam: Serve artisanal fruit preserves on the side for a pop of flavor that pairs well with the cream cheese filling.
- Coconut Water: The lightness and hydration from coconut water is refreshing, offering a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the kolaches.
- Chilled Sparkling Water: A bubbly, refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites, keeping your taste buds happy throughout your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches are a brilliant choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe through the first rise, then refrigerate the dough overnight to develop flavors while keeping it fresh and accessible. For the cream cheese filling, prepare it and store it separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. When you want to enjoy your kolaches, just shape the chilled dough, let them rise for a couple of hours, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll still enjoy that heavenly taste with minimal effort on busy mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches
Room Temperature: Store kolaches in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy them fresh and warm for the best taste!
Fridge: If keeping longer, place in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes for a soft texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled kolaches in a freezer-safe container, layered with parchment, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy at their best, reheat kolaches in the oven until warmed through. This restores their flaky texture, making your Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches feel freshly baked!
Expert Tips for Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches
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Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is silky and slightly tacky, not dry; adding too much flour can result in tough kolaches instead of tender ones.
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Rise Timing: Patience is key! Allow the dough to rise fully for the best texture; a rushed rise can make kolaches dense instead of fluffy.
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Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for the filling to achieve a smooth, luscious mixture—chilled or melted cream cheese will spoil the texture.
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Measure Wells Precisely: Create wells in the dough with a measuring cup for even filling; this prevents overflow during baking and keeps the filling nicely contained.
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Chill Your Toppings: Keep your streusel topping in the fridge until it’s time to bake; this will give it a delightful crunch that complements the soft, warm kolaches.
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Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to mix it up—try different fillings like fruit preserves or sweetened ricotta to make your Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches unique and tasty!
Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations and make this recipe your own!
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Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative or silken tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice for a light filling. This keeps the dish rich while accommodating dietary needs.
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Fruit-Filled: Swap the cream cheese filling for fruit preserves like apricot, raspberry, or cherry for a burst of natural sweetness. These versions bring a refreshing fruitiness that perfectly complements the dough.
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Nutty Texture: Add finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the filling for an extra crunch. This addition offers a delightful texture contrast that elevates each bite to new heights.
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Spiced Delight: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese filling for a warm, spicy twist. This brings a cozy feel to the kolaches, making them perfect for chilly mornings.
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Whole Grain Twist: Substitute spelt flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier dough that packs more nutrients and flavor. The nutty profile adds depth, making these kolaches a wholesome delight.
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Savory Option: Change things up by using a savory filling like herbed ricotta or a mix of sautéed veggies and cheese. This turns the kolaches into a wonderful brunch or light lunch option.
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Chocolate Indulgence: For a sweet treat, mix cocoa powder and sugar into the cream cheese filling. Top with chocolate chips for added decadence. Every bite will feel like a little indulgent reward.
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Tropical Flavor: Mix in shredded coconut or pineapple chunks to the filling for a tropical twist. This sunny addition brings a refreshing taste that transports you to far-off shores with every bite.
These variations allow you to create Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches suited to your taste preferences! Enjoy experimenting and sharing these treats with friends or family. If you’re looking for more ideas, consider pairing these with a delightful Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip or trying your hand at a delicious Protein Peanut Treat. Happy baking!
Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best ripe sourdough starter?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, your sourdough starter should be bubbly, active, and at its peak rise. Ideally, it should be fed about 4-6 hours before using it in your kolaches. Look for a sour aroma and no dark spots, indicating it’s fresh and ready to create that delightful tang in your Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches.
What’s the best way to store kolaches?
It’s very simple! If you’re enjoying your kolaches fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their tender texture.
Can I freeze these kolaches?
Absolutely! To freeze your Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven for the best taste.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Fantastic question! If your dough is sticky, avoid adding too much flour as this can lead to tougher kolaches. Instead, let it rest for a few minutes; this gives the flour time to absorb moisture. If it’s still too sticky after resting, add flour a tablespoon at a time until you achieve a smooth, pliable dough.
Can I make these kolaches gluten-free?
Certainly! While this recipe uses ancient grains, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. It may require some experimentation with moisture levels, but don’t hesitate to adjust until you get that tender dough you desire.
Are these kolaches suitable for pets?
It’s always important to think of our furry friends! While your Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches are delightful for humans, they are not suitable for pets, especially because of the sugar and cream cheese. Stick to pet-safe treats for your four-legged companions!
Delicious Healthy Sourdough Discard Kolaches You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, blend all-purpose flour with salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, sugar, egg, and egg yolk.
- Stir in the sourdough starter until combined.
- Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer your dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel.
- Allow it to rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar, flour, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Add lemon juice and mix until well incorporated.
- Cover and refrigerate the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Chill the streusel in the refrigerator.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 9 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let them rise again for 2-3 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Create a well in the center of each dough ball and fill with cream cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle streusel topping over the filling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes before serving.
