Kurtos Kolac
Kurtos Kolac is a true delicacy that combines tradition with an unmistakable taste. This dessert, beloved by many, has its origins in old recipes passed down through generations. A perfect combination of crunchy textures and sweet aromas, Kurtos Kolac is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will delight your senses and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.
Let's begin our culinary adventure! This recipe is perfect for a weekend day or a special occasion when you want to impress with something truly special.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
- 450 g flour
- 50 g vanilla pudding powder
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 150 g sugar
- 50 ml oil
- 20 g lard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 200 ml warm milk
- Ground walnuts (about 100 g) mixed with sugar (50 g) and cinnamon (1-2 tablespoons)
Necessary utensils
- A large bowl for kneading
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A work mat or clean surface for rolling out the dough
- Beer cans or cylindrical metal tubes
- Baking paper
- A preheated oven
Step by Step
Step 1: Preparing the starter
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 heaping tablespoons of flour, then add 50 ml of the warm milk. Mix well and let it rise for 10 minutes. You will know it is ready when it becomes frothy and aromatic.
Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the pudding powder. Add the oil, the activated starter, the melted lard, and the remaining milk in which you have dissolved the salt and the remaining sugar. Use a spatula to mix the ingredients until well combined.
Step 3: Kneading
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead it vigorously for about 10 minutes, until it becomes elastic and smooth. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and tasty dessert!
Step 4: Rising
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.
Step 5: Shaping the Kurtos Kolac
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a work surface into a rectangular sheet about 1 cm thick. Cut strips about a finger width wide.
Here comes the fun part! Take the beer cans (or tubes) and cover them with baking paper to prevent the dough from sticking. Start wrapping each strip of dough around the cans, gently flattening them to stick.
Step 6: Greasing and decorating
Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush each Kurtos Kolac with a generous layer. Then, roll them in the mixture of ground walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon. This mixture will give a special aroma and a delicious appearance.
Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the cans on a baking tray covered with baking paper and bake for about 30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, turn the cans for even baking. You will know they are ready when they become golden and crispy.
Step 8: Serving
Let the Kurtos Kolac cool slightly before removing them from the cans. They can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of coffee or tea, but also with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast.
Practical tips
- Fresh yeast is key! Make sure it is active and within the expiration date. If you don't have fresh yeast, you can use dry yeast, but use about 10 g.
- For a more intense flavor, you can also add a little rum essence to the dough.
- Variations of the filling: Instead of walnuts, you can use almonds, hazelnuts, or even coconut flakes for a different flavor.
- For an impressive visual effect, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top after they have cooled.
Nutritional benefits
Kurtos Kolac is a relatively calorie-dense dessert due to the sugar and oil, but it also offers benefits from the nuts, which are an excellent source of healthy fats and proteins. Nuts are rich in antioxidants and contribute to heart health.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, and the next day you can shape and bake it. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
2. Can I freeze Kurtos Kolac?
It is recommended to consume them fresh, but you can freeze the dessert before baking. After unwrapping them, you can bake them directly from the freezer, but the baking time will be a little longer.
3. What other recipes can I try?
If you are left with a sweet taste in your mouth, I recommend trying the fluffy donut recipe or pancakes with fruit filling!
Kurtos Kolac is more than just a dessert; it is a story of traditions and the joy of cooking. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories in the kitchen!
Ingredients: 450 g flour, 50 g vanilla pudding powder, 25 g fresh yeast, 150 g sugar, 50 ml oil, 20 g lard, one teaspoon salt, 200 ml milk, ground walnuts with sugar and cinnamon.
