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Sourdough Discard Kolaches

Freshly prepared Sourdough Discard Kolaches on clean counter

These Sourdough Discard Kolaches are soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet or savory center, making them a delicious way to use up your sourdough starter discard while enjoying a classic pastry treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sourdough starter discard
  • 1/2 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves (apricot or raspberry)
  • Optional: cooked sausage or ham pieces for savory filling
  • Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water) for brushing

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix sourdough discard, melted butter, and egg.
  3. Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
  4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
  9. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly. Make a small well in the center of each piece.
  10. Fill each well with 1 tbsp cream cheese and 1 tbsp jam, or savory filling as desired.
  11. Pinch the edges lightly or leave open-faced, depending on preference.
  12. Place kolaches on the baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 20 minutes.
  13. Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.
  14. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  15. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For a savory twist, try filling your kolaches with cheese and cooked sausage or ham. They’re perfect warm with a cup of coffee.