Kolach

A kolach is a delightful pastry originating from Central Europe, characterized by a delicious fruit filling enveloped in dough. Over time, it made its way to South London, where it became a popular breakfast item and subsequently found its way to parts of the United States. The word "kolach" is derived from the Czech word "kolo" meaning circle or wheel.

It’s important to note that kolaches are distinct from klobásníky. While kolaches are filled with fruit, klobásníky are savory pastries filled with meat. These meat-filled treats were initially made by Czech immigrants in Texas.

Kolaches were introduced to places like Cedar Rapids and Pocahontas in Iowa by Czech immigrants in the 1870s. Today, they are enjoyed at church events, during holidays, and as comforting snacks, often filled with prune, apricot, cream cheese, or poppy seed.

Across the United States, several cities celebrate Kolache Festivals to honor Czech heritage. Towns such as Montgomery, Minnesota; Verdigre and Prague in Nebraska; and various Texas communities proudly claim titles like "Kolacky Capital" or "Kolache Capital." In Texas, particularly in the Central and Eastern regions, there's a Texas Czech Belt renowned for its kolache bakeries. Meanwhile, Haugen, Wisconsin, celebrates its Czech roots during Haugen Fun Days, which feature kolache-themed events.

Kolaches even represented the Czech Republic in a European Union initiative in 2007.

However, kolaches are often confused with klobásníky, which are Texan pastries filled with sausage or other savory ingredients. Klobásníky resemble "pigs in a blanket" and were also created by Czech settlers in Texas. In places like Central and Southeast Texas, especially Houston, you can find klobásníky with a variety of fillings, including ham, cheese, jalapeño, eggs, and bacon or sausage.