The Best Kolache Cookies You’ll Ever Bake

Savor the nostalgic flavors of a traditional kolache—reimagined as a guilt-free cookie! These Kolache Cookies blend tender, lightly sweetened dough with a luscious fruit or cheese filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, this recipe proves you can enjoy beloved baked goods without straying from your wellness goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Guilt-Free Comfort: All the flavor of a kolache in a lighter, cookie-sized package!
• Quick & Easy: No yeast or lengthy rising—ready in under 30 minutes.
• WW-Friendly Swaps: Low-fat cream cheese, sugar substitutes, and portion control keep points low.
• Customizable: Fill with fruit, sugar-free jam, or light cheese.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for potlucks, holiday mornings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking blend)
• ½ cup low-fat cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup light butter (softened, or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• ¼ cup sugar-free fruit preserves (e.g., apricot, raspberry, or prune)
• OR ¼ cup light cream cheese mixed with 1 tsp lemon zest (for a cheese kolache twist)

Optional Topping:

• 1 tbsp powdered sugar substitute (for dusting)

Instructions

Make the Dough

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, sugar substitute, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape & Fill

1. Roll dough into 24 small balls (about 1 tsp each). Flatten each slightly and create a well in the center.
2. Fill each well with ½ tsp sugar-free preserves or cream cheese mixture.

Bake to Perfection

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
2. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Garnish & Serve

1. Dust with powdered sugar substitute if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: ~45
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Sugar: 1g (naturally occurring from fruit)
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW SmartPoints: 2 (fruit-filled) or 3 (cheese-filled).

Tips for Success

1. Chill the Dough: If sticky, refrigerate for 15 minutes before shaping.
2. Avoid Overflow: Don’t overfill cookies—½ tsp of filling is plenty.
3. Savory Option: Swap preserves for diced turkey sausage or veggie crumbles (track points).
4. Freeze Extras: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
5. Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

• Low-Fat Cream Cheese & Butter: Reduce saturated fat without sacrificing tenderness.
• Sugar-Free Fillings: Jam adds sweetness for minimal points.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Boosts fiber to keep you full longer.
• Portion Control: Bite-sized cookies prevent overindulgence.

Serving Ideas

• Brunch Spread: Pair with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit (0 points).
• Coffee Break: Enjoy with black coffee or a skinny latte.
• Holiday Gift: Package in a decorative tin with a WW-friendly recipe card.

These Kolache Cookies are a delightful bridge between tradition and modern wellness. With their flaky texture, sweet or savory fillings, and SmartPoints-friendly profile, they’re perfect for satisfying cravings while staying on track. Whether you’re honoring family recipes or exploring new flavors, these cookies are a delicious reminder that healthy eating can be both joyful and nostalgic.