Gluten-Free Kolaches Recipe (Soft, Sweet Dough with Fruit or Cheese Filling)

These gluten-free kolaches bring a traditional Czech pastry to gluten-sensitive kitchens! Soft, pillowy buns are filled with sweet fruit preserves, cream cheese, or even savory sausage. You’ll love how tender and flavorful this gluten-free dough turns out—perfect for breakfast, holidays, or snacking.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
• ¼ tsp salt
• For the Filling (choose one or mix):
• ½ cup fruit preserves (apricot, raspberry, prune, etc.)
• OR
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened + 2 tbsp sugar + ½ tsp vanilla (for cheese filling)
• Optional Topping:
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)
• 2 tbsp streusel (mix of GF flour, sugar, and butter)

Directions

1. Activate Yeast
2. In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
3. Make the Dough
4. Stir in remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add gluten-free flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour.
5. Shape Kolaches
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide dough into 12 balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press the center of each ball to create an indentation for filling.
7. Add Filling
8. Spoon fruit preserves or cream cheese mixture into the center of each kolache.
9. Bake
10. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until lightly golden. Brush with melted butter while warm and sprinkle with optional streusel.