Sausage and Cheese Kolache

FOR THE DOUGH
In a large mixing bowl combine the yeast, milk and sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Slowly add the salt, flour, butter and yolks into the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook and your stand mixer, mix until well kneaded about 3-4 minutes. Cover and place the bowl in a warm place for at least an hour.

Remove the dough from the bowl and place on a floured surface. Cut the dough in half and then divide those pieces into indivdual long strips. I made about 15 strips. Roll the strips into balls and then flatten the balls with your hand and place on a greased or silicone baking mat-lined baking sheet.

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Let the dough circles rise an additional 15 minutes.

FOR THE FILLING
While the dough is rising heat a large saute pan over medium heat. Add and cook the sausage with salt until sausage is brown. Remove sausage from the pan onto a paper towel lined plate.

Grab one of the dough circles and create a small dip in the center and fill with the sausage and little bit of the cheese. Bring all of the ends together and mash together with fingers. You want a complete ball. Place it back on the baking sheet.

When all balls are created make the egg wash by mixing together the yolks and the milk. Brush the tops of the kolache with the egg wash.
Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown. Brush the tops with melted butter before serving.

Adapted the dough recipe from the Houston Chronicle.