Kolaches are a beloved pastry with roots in Central European cuisine, typically filled with sweet or savory ingredients. This Sausage Gravy Kolache recipe offers a savory twist on the traditional treat, combining the fluffy, pillowy dough of a classic kolache with rich and creamy sausage gravy. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these kolaches deliver the comforting flavors of southern-style sausage gravy in a handheld pastry that’s both satisfying and portable.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 package) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Sausage Gravy Filling:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the warm milk, sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Sausage Gravy Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage and stir until the flour is absorbed.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a gravy.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Kolaches:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
- Flatten each ball into a circle, about 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the sausage gravy filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Pinch the edges of the dough around the filling to seal it completely, forming a ball. Place the kolaches seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Let the kolaches rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Bake the kolaches in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your warm and comforting Sausage Gravy Kolaches as a hearty breakfast or brunch option!
