Paczki are traditional Polish donuts, soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet fillings like jam, custard, or chocolate. This baked version of paczki offers the same delightful flavors and textures as the classic fried donuts but with a lighter twist. Perfect for celebrations or a weekend treat, these paczki will become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups (500g)
- Fresh Yeast: 25g (or 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast)
- Warm Milk: 1 cup (250ml)
- Sugar: 1/3 cup (70g)
- Butter: 1/4 cup (50g), melted and cooled
- Eggs: 2 large
- Egg Yolk: 1
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
For Filling and Topping:
- Jam, Custard, or Nutella: For filling
- Melted Butter: For brushing
- Granulated Sugar or Powdered Sugar: For dusting
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
- Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 1/2 hours
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in warm milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the yeast mixture, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
Mix until the dough comes together, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Paczki
Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the paczki for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Step 5: Fill and Top
Once cooled, use a piping bag to fill each paczek with your desired filling (jam, custard, or Nutella).
Brush the tops with melted butter and roll them in granulated sugar, or dust with powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Paczki
Ensure Proper Rising: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to achieve a soft texture.
Use High-Quality Fillings: Choose flavorful jams or creams to enhance the taste.
Customize Toppings: Add a glaze or sprinkle cinnamon sugar for a unique twist.
Serve Fresh: Paczki are best enjoyed fresh on the same day.
Nutritional Information (Per Paczek)
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
Conclusion
This Polish Baked Paczki Recipe offers a healthier yet equally delicious alternative to the traditional fried donuts. With their tender texture, delightful fillings, and simple preparation, these paczki are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Bake a batch today and enjoy a taste of Poland!