The Best Kolaches in Austin, Texas

Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches is a family-owned-and-operated kolache bakery, taproom and craft beer shop. Here, Jasmine Jones makes the kolaches, elevating them to gourmet status by integrating local, seasonal fruit and Micklethwait Craft Meats into the mix. Indeed, the kolaches here may be the star of the show, when compared to most others in the city.

S-H Donuts is a no-frills, family-run establishment. This emporium of donuts, tacos and kolaches is situated in a quiet neighborhood, so you have to know what you’re looking for to find it. Once you arrive, however, expect to be greeted like a long-time friend, and stay for a conversation. Just make sure you get here early before the kolaches sell-out.

Kerlin BBQ has seen success by keeping it simple yet special. It may have started as a barbecue joint, but the brisket kolaches have taken on a life of their own – so much so that Kerlin has now opened a separate trailer dedicated exclusively to the snack. Both trailers are only open a few days a week until they run out, so get there early or pre-order.

Although known for its quirky cakes and flaky pastries, Moonlight Bakery has a small selection of kolaches, both sweet and savory, that you shouldn’t miss – after all, they are made with love. Because the shop is a family affair, expect to have a conversation over the counter while you choose from the house-made kolaches. Once you take a bite, you’ll realize why people rave about this place. (Tip: slightly misshapen kolaches have a lot more flavor.)

Don’t let Donut Taco Palace’s unassuming strip mall location and no-frills interior put you off: the owners of this mom-and-pop joint serve up some of the best pastries in the city. It’s sausage and cheese kolache is legendary, and well worth the journey down to South Austin.

Although most kolache and donut shops are open in the morning, Mrs Johnson’s takes a different approach to this traditional breakfast food. Catering to those with late-night cravings, this bakery is open all night long, starting at 7.30pm. Although serving mostly donuts, the three kolaches that do make it on the menu are there for a reason – they’re absolutely delicious. If you love pastries, eat your way through Culture Trip’s guide to the best bakeries in Austin.