Food - Authentic European Bohemian-Style Kolaches

Ankeny Baker Named State Fair Kolaches King

David Maixner of Ankeny won first place in the Authentic European Bohemian-Style Kolaches competition judged Friday, August 11, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Marianne Carlson of Jefferson claimed second place and Claire Gilbert of West Des Moines earned third place.

Kolaches are Slovak and Czech sweet pastries that hold a portion of fruit, cheese or poppy seed surround by puffy sweet dough.

Entries were judged on texture, flavor, appearance and creativity.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There are 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.