These delightful prune kolaches are a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. With a soft, fluffy dough and a rich, flavorful prune filling, they are perfect for any occasion. The streusel topping adds a sweet, crumbly texture that complements the prune perfectly.
Photos of Grandma Skeet’s Prune Kolaches Recipe
One ingredient you might not commonly have at home is prune juice. You can find it in the juice aisle of most supermarkets. Prunes themselves might also need to be purchased specifically for this recipe, typically found in the dried fruits section. Make sure you have bread flour, as it provides the right texture for the dough.
Ingredients For Grandma Skeet's Prune Kolaches
Warm water: Essential for activating the yeast and creating the dough.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
Butter: Adds flavor and tenderness to the dough and streusel.
Bread flour: Provides the necessary gluten structure for the dough.
White sugar: Used in both the dough and the prune filling for sweetness.
Yeast: Leavens the dough, making it rise.
Prunes: The main ingredient for the filling, providing a rich, sweet flavor.
Prune juice: Helps to soften the prunes and create a thick sauce.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the filling and streusel.
Cloves: Adds a hint of spice to the filling.
Lime juice: Provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the prunes.
All-purpose flour: Used in the streusel topping for texture.
One reader, Barbra Bickford says:
Grandma Skeet's prune kolaches are a delightful treat! The dough is perfectly soft, and the prune filling is rich and flavorful. The streusel topping adds a wonderful crunch. These kolaches are a nostalgic and delicious addition to any breakfast or dessert table. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Prune Kolaches
Yes.
How to use a bread machine: Place the warm water, salt, egg, and butter in the pan of the bread machine. Add the bread flour and sugar, then make a shallow hole in the flour and add the yeast. Close the lid and set the machine for the dough cycle.
How to make prune filling: Combine prunes, prune juice, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and lime juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes until prunes are soft and the sauce has thickened. Blend in a mixer or food processor until smooth.
How to make streusel topping: Mix together sugar and flour in a small bowl. Stir in melted butter and cinnamon to make a crumbly streusel.
How to shape kolache dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and divide it into 20 small egg-sized pieces. Shape the dough into balls, press a shallow hole in the center of each, and fill with prune filling.
How To Make Prune Kolaches
Kolaches are sweet Czech pastries that hold a fruit portion in between the puffy dough. These tasty Prune Kolaches are easy and filled with prune goodness!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Bread:
- 1cupwarm water
- 1tspsalt
- 1egg
- 2tbspbutter,at room temperature
- 3cupsbread flour
- ¼cupwhite sugar
- 3tspyeast,bread machine
For Filling:
- 2cupsprunes,pitted
- 2cupsprune juice,or water
- ¼cupwhite sugar
- 1tspcinnamon,ground, or to taste
- ½tspcloves,ground, or to taste
- 2tbsplime juice
For Topping:
- 1cupwhite sugar
- ½cupall-purpose flour
- 2tbspbutter,melted
- 1tspcinnamon,optional
Instructions
-
Place the warm water, salt, egg, and 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan of a bread machine.
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Add the bread flour, and pour ¼ cup of sugar on the edge of the pan. Make a shallow hole in the flour and add the yeast.
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Close the lid, and set the machine for the dough cycle.
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While the dough is mixing, combine the prunes, prune juice, ¼ cup of sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and lime juice in a saucepan.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes, until prunes are soft and the sauce has thickened.
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Remove from heat and blend in a mixer or food processor until smooth.
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When the bread machine signals the end of the dough cycle, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
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Divide the dough into 20 small egg-sized pieces. Cover with greased plastic wrap, and set aside for 10 minutes.
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In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar and ½ cup of flour. Stir in the melted butter and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to make a crumbly streusel.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
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Shape the kolache dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Press a shallow hole in the center of each, and fill with the prune filling.
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Top each of the kolaches with streusel.
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Let the kolaches rest until doubled in size, about 20 minutes.
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Bake for 14 to 16 minutes until the tops are lightly browned.
Recipe Notes
The dough can be mixed in a stand mixer, if desired. Use the dough hook and mix on low speed for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is well developed. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape the dough into a round. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let rise for about 1½ hours until doubled in bulk.
Nutrition
- Calories: 230.10kcal
- Fat: 3.01g
- Saturated Fat: 1.61g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.75g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.30g
- Carbohydrates: 48.51g
- Fiber: 2.39g
- Sugar: 25.93g
- Protein: 3.88g
- Cholesterol: 14.10mg
- Sodium: 122.62mg
- Calcium: 19.90mg
- Potassium: 235.08mg
- Iron: 1.60mg
- Vitamin A: 29.73µg
- Vitamin C: 1.63mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Prune Kolaches
When making the dough in a bread machine, ensure that the yeast does not come into direct contact with the salt or sugar before mixing. This can inhibit the yeast's ability to rise properly. Instead, place the yeast in a small well in the bread flour to keep it separate until the machine starts mixing.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grandma Skeet's Prune Kolaches Recipe
Prepare the filling: Make the prune filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge to save time on baking day.
Use a bread machine: Let the bread machine handle the dough preparation while you focus on other tasks.
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
Streusel in bulk: Prepare extra streusel topping and freeze it for future use.
Divide and conquer: Divide the dough into pieces and shape them while the oven preheats to save time.
Line baking sheets: Use parchment paper to line baking sheets for easy cleanup and quick turnaround.
Substitute Ingredients For Grandma Skeet’s Prune Kolaches Recipe
warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk adds richness and a slight sweetness to the dough, enhancing the flavor and texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor profile and can enhance the overall taste of the bread.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the dough.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar texture and flavor.
bread flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used, though the texture may be slightly less chewy.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the dough.
yeast - Substitute with baking powder: Use 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every cup of flour as a leavening agent, though the texture will be different.
prunes - Substitute with dried apricots: Dried apricots provide a similar texture and sweetness, though the flavor will be slightly different.
prune juice - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can provide a similar sweetness and moisture for the filling.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor to the filling.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice offers a similar warm, spicy flavor profile.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and brightness to the filling.
white sugar - Substitute with powdered sugar: Powdered sugar can be used for a finer texture in the topping.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the topping.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and a slight coconut flavor.
cinnamon - Substitute with cardamom: Cardamom offers a unique, aromatic flavor that pairs well with sweet toppings.
Presenting Grandma Skeet's Delightful Prune Kolaches
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the kolaches in a refined manner by making them slightly smaller than usual. This allows for a more elegant presentation and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Use a pristine white plate: A clean, white plate will make the colors of the kolaches and the streusel topping pop, giving a sophisticated look.
Create a prune reduction sauce: Drizzle a reduction made from prune juice and lime juice around the kolaches on the plate. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the prune flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a small sprig of fresh mint or thyme on top of each kolache. The green color provides a beautiful contrast and a hint of freshness.
Use a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the kolaches with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a delicate sweetness and a visually appealing finish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as violets or pansies, around the plate. This adds a touch of color and elegance.
Serve with a side of crème fraîche: Offer a small dollop of crème fraîche on the side. This adds a creamy element that complements the sweetness of the kolaches.
Use a decorative spoon for the filling: When filling the kolaches, use a small decorative spoon to create a neat and precise dollop of the prune filling.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra luxurious touch, add a small piece of edible gold leaf to the top of each kolache. This elevates the presentation to a Michelin-star level.
Serve on a wooden board: Present the kolaches on a rustic wooden board for a contrast between the refined pastries and the natural texture of the wood. This adds a touch of warmth and sophistication.
Essential Tools for Making Prune Kolaches
Bread machine: Used to mix and knead the dough automatically, ensuring a consistent texture and rise.
Saucepan: Essential for cooking the prune filling, allowing you to simmer the ingredients until they are soft and the sauce thickens.
Mixer: Helps to blend the prune filling into a smooth consistency after cooking.
Food processor: An alternative to the mixer for blending the prune filling to a smooth texture.
Floured surface: Provides a non-stick area to work with the dough, making it easier to shape and divide.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the dough pieces, preventing them from drying out while they rest.
Small bowl: Ideal for mixing the streusel topping ingredients together.
Baking sheet: Holds the kolache dough balls during baking, ensuring they bake evenly.
Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet to prevent the kolaches from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Oven: Bakes the kolaches to perfection, giving them a golden-brown top.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of both wet and dry ingredients for consistent results.
Measuring spoons: Provides precise measurements for smaller quantities of ingredients like yeast, salt, and spices.
Mixing spoon: Useful for stirring ingredients together, especially when making the prune filling.
Greased plastic wrap: Prevents the dough from sticking to the wrap while it rests.
Knife: Handy for dividing the dough into equal pieces.
Spatula: Helps in transferring the dough pieces and shaping them on the baking sheet.
Rolling pin: Optional, but can be used to flatten the dough balls slightly before shaping them.
Cooling rack: Allows the baked kolaches to cool evenly without becoming soggy on the bottom.
Storing and Freezing Grandma Skeet's Prune Kolaches
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Grandma Skeet's prune kolaches recipe:
- Let the kolaches cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, place the cooled kolaches in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the kolaches. Wrap each kolache individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen kolaches will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To thaw, remove the desired number of kolaches from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat, place the thawed kolaches on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual kolaches on high power for 15-20 seconds, or until warm.
- Enjoy your stored or reheated prune kolaches with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack!
How To Reheat Leftover Prune Kolaches
To reheat leftover grandma skeet's prune kolaches, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kolaches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method will help restore the texture of the bread and the crumbly streusel topping.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the kolaches on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds. If they aren't heated through, continue microwaving in 5-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven reheating.
If you want to refresh the flavor of the prune filling, you can warm it up separately in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until the filling is heated through, then spoon it back into the center of each kolache before serving.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the kolaches in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the kolaches in the basket, ensuring they aren't touching each other. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, or until they are heated through and the outside is crispy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the kolaches as well. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the kolaches on the wire rack. Toast for 4-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method is ideal for reheating smaller batches of kolaches.
Interesting Fact About Prune Kolaches
A unique aspect of this prune kolaches recipe is its use of prune juice in the filling, which adds a rich depth of flavor and natural sweetness, setting it apart from traditional kolache fillings.
Is Making Prune Kolaches at Home Cost-Effective?
This prune kolaches recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like bread flour, prunes, and basic pantry items such as sugar and cinnamon are relatively inexpensive. The use of a bread machine simplifies the process, saving time and effort. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12. Given the delightful taste and the nostalgic value, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10.
Are Prune Kolaches Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Grandma Skeet's Prune Kolaches recipe, while undeniably delicious, may not be the healthiest choice due to several factors:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with 1/4 cup in the dough, 1/4 cup in the filling, and 1 cup in the streusel topping. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
- The use of white bread flour and all-purpose flour, which are refined carbohydrates, may cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- The recipe also includes butter, which is high in saturated fat. While some saturated fat is acceptable in a balanced diet, excessive amounts can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and increased risk of heart disease.
However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities, such as the use of prunes, which are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The lime juice in the filling also adds a small amount of vitamin C.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the overall sugar content by cutting back on the amount used in the dough, filling, and streusel topping. You can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, which may provide some additional nutrients.
- Replace a portion of the white bread flour and all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or other whole grain alternatives. This will increase the fiber content and provide more vitamins and minerals.
- Use unsalted butter and reduce the amount used in the recipe. You can also consider replacing some of the butter with healthier fat sources, such as olive oil or coconut oil.
- Incorporate more fruit into the filling, such as chopped apples or pears, to increase the fiber and nutrient content while naturally sweetening the kolaches.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive amounts of sugar.
Editor's Thoughts: Grandma Skeet's Prune Kolaches Recipe
This recipe for Grandma Skeet's prune kolaches is a delightful blend of tradition and flavor. The dough, enriched with butter and a touch of sweetness, promises a tender base. The prune filling, simmered with spices and lime juice, offers a rich, tangy contrast. The streusel topping adds a perfect crunch, enhancing the overall texture. Using a bread machine simplifies the process, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The balance of flavors and textures is well thought out, ensuring each bite is a nostalgic treat. This recipe is a beautiful homage to classic baking with a modern twist.
Enhance Your Grandma Skeet’s Prune Kolaches Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Grandma Skeet's Prune Kolaches Recipe
Why trust this Grandma Skeet’s Prune Kolaches Recipe:
This recipe for prune kolaches is a cherished family heirloom, passed down through generations. The combination of bread flour, prune filling, and streusel topping creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Using a bread machine ensures consistent results, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The prunes add a unique sweetness, while the cinnamon and cloves provide a warm, comforting aroma. Trust this recipe for a taste of tradition and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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