Paczki (Polish Donuts) Recipe

These Paczki are a delightful Polish treat, perfect for indulging in a sweet, airy donut filled with your favorite preserves or custard. Imagine soft, pillowy donuts, fried to golden perfection and bursting with a sweet filling, then dusted with powdered sugar. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Paczki, offering a taste of Polish comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Airy Texture: The double proofing process ensures a light, airy texture that’s characteristic of authentic Paczki.
• Versatile Filling Options: Fill these donuts with your favorite fruit preserves, custard, or lemon curd for a personalized treat.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for Fat Tuesday (Tłusty Czwartek) or any celebration that calls for a sweet, indulgent treat.

this Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Paczki:

• Large eggs: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• Lukewarm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dough.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor.
• Instant yeast: Leavens the dough, creating a light and airy texture.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the dough.
• Vegetable oil: Used for frying, providing a neutral base that allows the flavors of the Paczki to shine.
• Fruit preserves (raspberry, strawberry, etc.), custard, or lemon curd: Used for filling, providing a sweet, flavorful center.
• Powdered sugar: Used for coating, adding a sweet, delicate finish.

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast and mix well.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the flour to the bowl of a stand mixer, then pour in the milk/egg mixture. Using the dough hook, mix until well incorporated and the dough comes clean from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead and First Rise

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, spray the dough with cooking spray, cover, and let rise for about 2 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Paczki

Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out rounds using a glass or cookie cutter. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise again for about 30 minutes, until doubled in size.

Step 5: Fry the Paczki

Heat about 3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven. Fry the Paczki in batches until golden brown on both sides, turning them evenly.

Step 6: Drain and Cool

Transfer the fried Paczki to a bowl lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool until you can handle them.

Step 7: Fill the Paczki

Using a piping bag and filling tip, pipe your favorite filling into the sides of the Paczki.

Step 8: Coat and Serve

Roll the filled Paczki in powdered sugar and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Yeast Activation: If using active dry yeast, proof it in warm milk for 5 minutes before mixing.
• Double Proofing: Don’t rush the rise; the double proofing is essential for a light, airy texture.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Filling Technique: Use a piping bag with a round tip and fill slowly to prevent bursting.
• Yeast Storage: Store unopened yeast packages in a cool, dry place or in the fridge/freezer. Let frozen yeast come to room temperature before using.

How to Serve

• Dessert: Serve as a sweet dessert or snack.
• Celebrations: Perfect for Fat Tuesday (Tłusty Czwartek) or other celebrations.
• Coffee Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Paczki are best enjoyed the same day they are made. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Can I use a different filling?
Yes, you can use any filling you like, such as chocolate, cream, or fruit compote.

Can I bake the Paczki instead of frying?
Baking Paczki will result in a different texture, but you can try baking them at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.

How do I prevent the Paczki from absorbing too much oil?
Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) and don’t overcrowd the pan.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Paczki that’s perfect for any occasion. The light, airy texture and sweet filling create a truly unforgettable treat. Give it a try, and you’ll have a taste of authentic Polish comfort in no time!

Print