Baked Paczki

Baked Paczki – A Lighter Take on the Classic Polish Donut!

Paczki (pronounced “pownch-key”) are traditional Polish donuts, often deep-fried and filled with jam or cream, enjoyed on Fat Thursday before Lent. This baked version offers a healthier alternative while preserving the soft, pillowy texture and delicious flavor!

Looking for more baked treats? Try this Homemade Brioche Doughnuts.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)

• ¾ cup whole milk, warm (not too hot for yeast)

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 2 egg yolks

• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

• Jam or cream filling of your choice

Want extra richness? Substitute vegetable oil with melted butter!

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast.

• Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

• Add egg yolks, vegetable oil, and activated yeast mixture.

• Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead & Rise

• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

• Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Paczki

• Punch down the dough and roll it out to ½-inch thickness.

• Use a round cutter (about 3 inches wide) to cut circles.

• Place them on a lined baking sheet, cover lightly, and let them rise for 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Fill & Dust

• Let paczki cool slightly, then fill with jam or cream using a piping bag.

• Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Pair them with this Homemade Hot Chocolate for a cozy treat!

Serving Suggestions:

✔ Use raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam for a fruity filling.

✔ Fill with custard or whipped cream for a decadent version.

✔ Glaze with honey or a light icing instead of powdered sugar.

Try these Soft Cinnamon Rolls for another irresistible baked good!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Paczki:

✔ Ensure the yeast is active by checking for foam before mixing.

✔ For extra fluffiness, let the dough rise slowly in the fridge overnight.

✔ Want a crispier texture? Brush with melted butter right after baking.

Try this Classic Jelly-Filled Doughnut Recipe for a deep-fried option!

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Rise Time: 1.5 hours

• Bake Time: 12-15 minutes

• Total Time: ~2 hours

• Yield: 8-10 paczki

• Category: Dessert / Pastry

• Method: Baking

• Cuisine: Polish

Keywords:

Baked Paczki, Polish Donuts, Fat Thursday Recipe, Easy Homemade Pastry

Nutrition (Per Paczki – Without Filling):

• Calories: ~180

• Fat: 6g

• Protein: 4g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Sodium: 80mg

More European Pastry Recipes to Try:

• Traditional French Beignets – Soft, fluffy, and lightly fried.

• Italian Bomboloni – Cream-filled delights.

• Homemade Bavarian Cream Donuts – A must-try for custard lovers!

Don’t forget to share this recipe so others can enjoy it too!

Would you like variations, such as a chocolate-filled version or a honey glaze?