Pączki Recipe

Introduction to Pączki

Pączki are traditional Polish doughnuts known for their rich taste and fluffy texture. These sweet treats have been enjoyed for centuries, especially on Fat Thursday, a Polish holiday akin to Mardi Gras, where they are consumed in abundance. The history of pączki dates back to the Middle Ages, where they were originally filled with savory fillings, evolving over time into the sugary delight we know today.

Ingredients

• Flour - 4 cups
• Active dry yeast - 2 1/4 teaspoons
• Milk - 1 cup
• Sugar - 1/2 cup
• Butter - 1/4 cup (melted)
• Eggs - 2 large
• Egg yolks - 2
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Jam or Custard for filling
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation

1. Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, butter, egg yolks, and eggs. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the flour gradually, alternating with the milk mixture until you achieve a soft dough consistency.
5. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This is crucial for the texture of the pączki.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Cooking Process

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air pockets. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
2. Cut the dough into circles using a doughnut cutter or a glass. Set the cut pieces aside to rise again for another 30 minutes.
3. In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a cooking thermometer or link to this cooking timer for precise timing.
4. Fry the pączki a few at a time until golden brown on both sides, approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side.
5. Remove the fried pączki and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
6. Once cooled, use a piping bag to fill them with your choice of jam or custard.
7. Finally, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top to finish.

Enjoying Your Pączki

Pączki are best enjoyed fresh, slightly warm with a hot cup of coffee or tea. These delightful treats make for a fantastic dessert or luxurious breakfast, especially when celebrating Fat Thursday or any special occasion. Share with family and friends to spread the joy of these delectable Polish doughnuts.