Kolache Cookies – Soft, Fruity, and Delightfully Sweet

Kolache Cookies are soft, tender, and filled with your favorite fruit jam for a burst of sweet flavor in every bite. These cookies are a classic treat inspired by traditional Czech pastries, reimagined into an easy-to-make cookie version. Perfect for tea time, holidays, or a cozy homemade snack, they offer a delicate balance of buttery dough and fruity filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft & Chewy: Perfectly tender cookies every time.
Fruity Filling: Customize with your favorite jam or preserves.
Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples, easy to make from scratch.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake in batches and freeze for later.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted light butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup fruit jam or preserves (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry work well)

Optional Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Gradually stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.

3. Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.

4. Add the Filling
Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of your chosen jam.

5. Bake
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

6. Optional Topping
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 95
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 4g
Protein: 1g
Fiber: 0.5g

Tips for Success

• Choose Thick Jam: Prevents filling from spilling during baking.
• Room-Temperature Butter: Ensures soft, tender cookies.
• Make Ahead: Dough can be chilled for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Flavor Variations: Try lemon curd, chocolate spread, or even nut butter for a fun twist.

Why This Recipe Works

Kolache Cookies combine buttery, tender dough with a sweet burst of jam for a perfectly balanced cookie. They are simple to make, versatile, and portable—ideal for gifts, gatherings, or a quick homemade treat.

These Kolache Cookies capture the essence of classic European pastries in a soft, easy-to-make cookie form. With endless filling options and a tender texture, they are a delightful treat for any occasion and a perfect addition to your homemade dessert collection.