Texas Sausage Kolaches Recipe

Active dry yeast: A leavening agent that helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Warm water: Activates the yeast.

Warmed milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.

Beaten eggs: Provide structure and richness to the dough.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.

All-purpose flour: The main structure of the dough.

Smoked sausage: The savory filling that gives these kolaches their distinctive flavor.

When working with yeast, ensure that the water is warm but not too hot, ideally between 105°F and 110°F. This temperature range activates the yeast without killing it, which is crucial for proper dough rising. Additionally, when kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. This process helps develop the gluten structure, resulting in a soft and elastic dough.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and doesn't need to be dissolved in water first.

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and tenderness to the dough.

• warmed milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slight tang and can make the dough more tender.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the dough.

• melted butter - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can provide the necessary fat content and moisture.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg; this is a good vegan alternative.

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

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can give the dough more structure and chewiness.

• smoked sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and can provide a similar smoky flavor.

• Allow the kolaches to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the dough soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the kolaches in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you plan to store them for longer, refrigerate the kolaches. They will stay fresh for up to a week when kept in the refrigerator.
• To freeze, wrap each kolache individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh.
• Place the wrapped kolaches in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• Frozen kolaches can be stored for up to 3 months. For best results, consume them within this time frame.
• When ready to eat, thaw the kolaches in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kolaches on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the kolaches for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave's power. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the dough tough.
• For an extra touch, brush the kolaches with a little melted butter before reheating to enhance their flavor and texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Texas sausage kolaches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the bread's soft texture and the sausage's juicy flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place the kolaches on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is quick but may slightly alter the texture of the dough.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the kolaches in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method gives a slightly crispier exterior while keeping the sausage inside juicy.

• Stovetop Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the kolaches in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even warming. This method can give a nice, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside warm and soft.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kolaches on the toaster oven tray. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-12 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method is great for small batches and maintains the bread's texture.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the precise amount of yeast and salt needed for the recipe.

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

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the milk, sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, salt, and yeast mixture.

• Whisk: Handy for beating the eggs and ensuring they are well mixed with other ingredients.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for gradually adding and mixing the flour into the wet ingredients.

• Stand mixer: Optional, but can be used with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough instead of doing it by hand.

• Dough scraper: Helps in handling and dividing the dough into equal pieces.

• Greased bowl: Used to place the dough in for rising, ensuring it doesn't stick.

• Plastic wrap: To cover the bowl while the dough rises, keeping it warm and moist.

• Baking sheet: A greased sheet where the kolaches are placed for baking.

• Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the kolaches.

• Pastry brush: Optional, but can be used to brush melted butter on the kolaches before or after baking for extra flavor and shine.

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

Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked sausage links to save time on cooking.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven to speed up the rising process.

Batch baking: Bake multiple kolaches at once by using a large baking sheet.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising to save time.