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Paczki Recipe : Polish Baked Donuts

Paczki Recipe : Polish Baked Donuts

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Instructions for Making Paczki (Polish Baked Donuts)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C). It should feel warm to the touch, but not hot.
  2. Add the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the warm milk. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This activates the yeast, ensuring your dough will rise properly.

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the eggs (both egg yolks and whole eggs), vanilla extract, lemon zest (if using), and the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Stir until the ingredients begin to form a dough.
  3. Gradually add in the softened butter, piece by piece, kneading as you go. This will create a smooth, elastic dough.
  4. Once all the butter is incorporated, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is soft and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
  2. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Paczki

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air.
  2. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about ½-inch thickness.
  3. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut circles from the dough.
  4. Place the cut dough circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Cover with a towel and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Paczki

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Once the dough has risen, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the paczki are golden brown.
  3. Remove the baked paczki from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 6: Fill the Paczki

  1. Once the paczki are slightly cooled, use a small piping bag or a pastry injector to fill them with your chosen filling.
    • For fruit preserves: Use a thick fruit jam or preserve like raspberry or apricot.
    • For vanilla custard: Make a thick vanilla custard, or buy a pre-made version from the store.
    • For chocolate ganache: Fill them with your favorite chocolate ganache for a rich, indulgent treat.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touch

  1. After filling your paczki, dust them generously with powdered sugar for that classic, sweet finish.

Why You’ll Love Paczki (Polish Baked Donuts)

  • Rich and Flavorful: Paczki are rich in flavor, thanks to the buttery dough and sweet fillings. The slight hint of vanilla and citrus zest adds a fresh twist to the traditional donut.
  • Baked, Not Fried: While the classic version of paczki is fried, this baked version is lighter and healthier, but without compromising on taste or texture.
  • Customizable Fillings: Whether you prefer fruit preserves, custard, or chocolate, you can customize the filling to suit your taste. You can even experiment with different flavors to make your paczki unique.
  • Perfect for Special Occasions: Traditionally enjoyed around Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, or other celebrations, paczki are perfect for any festive occasion. They also make for an impressive homemade gift or dessert for family gatherings.
  • Tender and Fluffy: The dough, thanks to the yeast and butter, is incredibly soft and pillowy. Each bite melts in your mouth.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading the dough can lead to tough paczki. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Let the Dough Rise Properly: Make sure the dough has enough time to rise fully during both the first and second rises. This ensures your paczki will be light and fluffy.
  • Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Try different jams, custards, or even whipped cream for a fun variation.
  • Serve Fresh: These are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

Paczki are a delicious Polish tradition that’s enjoyed by people all around the world, especially during the Mardi Gras season. This baked version provides a lighter alternative to the fried classic while maintaining all the delicious, rich flavors. With a soft, buttery dough and a choice of decadent fillings, these paczki are sure to be a hit at any celebration. Try making them at home and treat your family and friends to a little slice of Polish heaven!

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