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The croissant could never.
The muffin only wishes.
Kolaches have been the unofficial state pastry for 100 years. When thousands of Czech immigrants began settling in Central Texas in the late 1800s, looking to own land and have religious freedom, they brought their sweet, doughy treats to the region.
True kolaches are round yeast buns filled with jam or fruit pulp, but in typical Texas fashion, we redefined the word. Now the word “kolache” is also used to describe any type of yeast buns with filling, sweet or savory. Savory buns are known in The Czech Republic as Klobasniks, but who knows if Texans will ever adopt the correct name. They’re just kolaches for now.
Today you can find kolaches with not only fruit inside, but sausage, brisket, and cheese filling.
Whether for a quick breakfast or for a thoughtful gift, kolaches are the go-to for all occasions. For a food so popular, it can be hard to know where to find the best ones. Czech out this list to get your fix in North Texas.
Classic Kolaches
Address: 104 E Fate Main Pl, Fate, TX 75087
Four Czechs started when a Royse City family got tired of having to go to Central Texas for authentic Kolaches.They now have a shop that honors their Czech heritage and serves proper Kolaches and Klobasniks to North Texas or passersby.
Address: 2812 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76015
Kenner’s has been in business for more than 30 years and focused on “Czech-inspired treats.” They offer kolaches with peach filling which are probably extra delicious since Texas peaches are top-notch. They also have a chocolate cream cheese if you want something atypical.
The Kolache Box – European Bakery
Address: 1630 Valwood Pkwy, Carrollton, TX 75006
Get to The Kolache Box early for treats that one customer said are “pretty authentic to a Czechoslovakian Kolache,” as they sell out quickly. They open at 5:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday and have all your standard fruit flavors and savory options as well.
Address: 4006 White Settlement Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
At this mom-and-pop shop, indulge in strawberry and cream kolaches or blueberry made from pureed blueberries topped with a crumbled streusel. The Pearl Snap is also a cafe with a full food menu.
Remixed Kolaches
Address: 13901 Midway Rd #101, Farmers Branch, TX 75244
What to try: The Korean BBQ kolache
Pilaski’s Donuts
Address: 4201 W Green Oaks Blvd #400, Arlington, TX 76016
What to try: The bacon kolache
Address: 414 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208
What to try: The brisket kolache
JC Kolache and Donut
Address: 4418 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
What to try: The ranchero kolache
The Kolache Factory
Various Locations
What to try: The chicken enchilada & philly cheese steak kolache