Blackberry cream cheese kolaches

Step 1

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the milk, water, sugar, salt, yeast, butter, and flour. Mix for 6-8 minutes until a smooth dough forms. If the dough remains too sticky after 8 minutes, add an additional 4 tablespoons of flour. If kneading by hand, mix in a large bowl until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a clean, lightly floured work surface and knead the dough about 10-15 minutes until smooth.

Step 2

Shape it all into a ball, then cover it with a bowl or kitchen towel and let it rest on the counter for 30 minutes. This helps loosen the gluten strands resulting in a chewier, softer dough.

Step 3

After 30 minutes, shape the rolls. Divide the dough in half and set one half aside, covered to prevent drying out. Roll the remaining half out to about 1 inch thick, and cut into 2½-inch rounds using a cookie cutter. Place the rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Step 4

Allow the dough rounds to rest for 45 minutes until they are soft and puffy.

Step 5

While the rounds are proofing, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and lemon zest. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 6

To prepare the blackberry compote, in a pot over low heat, combine blackberries, sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice. Let the berries release their juices, stirring gently with a soft spatula. Simmer on low for 10 minutes until the compote thickens.

Step 7

Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C).

Step 8

When the dough discs are puffy, brush the surfaces with the beaten egg to achieve a golden-brown color and shine after baking. Use your fingers to make a round indentation in the center of each disc. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese filling into each indentation, then top with blackberry compote.

Step 9

Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 10

Garnish with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and sliced mixed fresh berries if using.

Step 11

Enjoy!