Blackberry Kolaches

@groovyfoodiess Blackberry kolaches are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a soft, pillowy dough cradling a vibrant blackberry filling. These treats are a delightful way to savor fresh fruit in every bite. Whether enjoyed with coffee or as a snack, they bring a burst of flavor to any moment! INGREDIENTS Dough ½ cup warm milk ½ cup warm water ¼ cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon instant yeast ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened 3 cups flour Filing 2 cups blackberries ½ cup sugar 1 lemon, zested and juiced 1 mandarin, zested Assembly: 1 egg, lightly beaten Powdered sugar, for garnish 1 lemon, zested, for garnish PREPARATION: 1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the milk, water, sugar, salt, yeast, butter, and flour. Mix for 6-8 minutes until a smooth dough forms. If the dough remains too sticky after 8 minutes, add an additional 4 tablespoons of flour. 2. Shape it all into a ball, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes. 3. After 30 minutes, shape the rolls. Divide the dough in half and set one half aside, covered to prevent drying out. Roll the remaining half out to about 1 inch thick, and cut into 2½-inch rounds using a cookie cutter. Place the rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Repeat with the remaining dough. 4. Rest the dough for 45 minutes until they are soft and puffy. 5. In a pot over low heat, combine blackberries, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and mandarin zest. Let the berries release their juices, stirring gently with a soft spatula. Simmer on low for 10 minutes until the compote thickens. 6. Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C). 7. When the dough discs are puffy, brush the surfaces with the beaten egg. Use your fingers to make a round indentation in the center of each disc. Fill the centers with the blackberry compote. 8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown. 9. Garnish with powdered sugar and lemon zest. 10. Enjoy!