In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and smooth.
Add the egg yolks, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Avoid overmixing.
2. Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Chilling makes the dough easier to roll and helps the pastries keep their shape while baking.
3. Shape the Kolaches
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick.
Cut the dough into small squares or rounds.
Place a small spoonful of apricot jam in the center of each piece. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam can spread during baking.
Fold or shape the dough around the filling and gently seal the edges.
4. Bake
Arrange the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake for approximately 12–16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Do not let them become too dark—the finished kolaches should remain delicate and tender.
5. Cool and Finish
Allow the kolaches to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
Once completely cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Apricot Kolaches
Use thick apricot preserves so the filling doesn’t run out during baking.
Chill the dough before rolling for easier handling.
Don’t overfill the pastries.
Roll the dough evenly so the kolaches bake at the same rate.
For extra Hungarian character, add finely ground walnuts to the apricot filling.
Dust with powdered sugar only after the pastries have cooled.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Hungarian apricot kolaches with a cup of coffee or tea. They are especially lovely on a dessert platter during Christmas, Easter, family gatherings, or afternoon visits.
These traditional apricot kolaches combine tender homemade pastry with bright apricot preserves for a simple Hungarian treat that is both elegant and comforting.
