We’re treating ourselves to the irresistible joy of fresh kolache. This dessert was brought to America by Czech immigrants in the mid-1800s, and our recipe honors this tradition while adding the gut-friendly benefits of Lifeway Kefir. Our Probiotic Kolache starts with a soft, fluffy pastry roll that’s filled with juicy apricots and blueberries. We then add a probiotic frosting made with Lifeway Kefir, giving this dessert a gut-friendly edge over other baked goods.
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school-age years. In addition, kefir made from whole milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including your immune system and digestive system.
Prep Time: 12-24 hours Servings: 12Ingredients
- bread:
- 2 pkg yeast
- 3 cups Organic Plain Whole Milk Kefir
- 1/2 c sugar
- 3-4 cups Flour
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/2 c shortening (melted)
- Other ingredients:
- Apricot preserves
- Peach preserves
- Wild blueberry preserves
- frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup additional Organic Plain Whole Milk Kefir
Directions
- Mix together all the bread ingredients until mixed. Let it rise. Punch it down and form the dough into rolls, let it rise again.
- Punch holes in the center of each roll. It is best to get the holes pretty big and flat to kill the yeast so it doesn't rise out.
- Fill the holes with apricot preserves. Bake for 20-25 minutes on 350 degrees.
- While the dough is baking, make up the frosting. Mix together frosting ingredients.
- IMPORTANT: As soon as the dough comes out of the oven, drizzle over the frosting and let cool. Enjoy!