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Polish Baked Paczki (Donuts)

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These homemade Polish Baked Paczki are a light, fluffy treat filled with rich custard and coated in sugar. Perfect for a traditional Polish celebration or as a special dessert, these donuts are healthier than their fried counterpart but just as delicious! Try these classic Paczki donuts filled with custard or jam for a taste of Poland’s best-kept baking secret

Ingredients

Scale
  • Dough:
    • 1½ cups flour
    • ¼ cup sugar
    • ¼ tsp salt
    • 2 tsp yeast
    • ¾ cup warm milk
    • 3 Tbsp oil
    • 2 egg yolks
    • 1 tsp vanilla
    • Extra flour, as needed (for kneading)
  • For Coating:
    • 3 Tbsp melted butter
    • ½ cup sugar
  • Custard Filling:
    • ¼ cup sugar
    • 2 Tbsp cornstarch
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 egg yolk

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:
    • Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly.
    • Add oil, egg yolks, vanilla, flour, and salt, then mix until smooth and well combined.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
    • Cover and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.
  • Make the Custard Filling:
    • In a saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch.
    • Gradually add milk and egg yolk, stirring to combine.
    • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil and thickens (about 1½ minutes).
    • Remove from heat and let cool. Refrigerate the custard for at least 30 minutes to chill.
  • Shape and Bake the Paczki:
    • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thick.
    • Use a round cutter to cut circles from the dough.
    • Place the dough circles on a greased baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rise for about 1 hour.
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake the paczki for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Coat and Fill:
    • Brush the warm donuts with melted butter, then roll in sugar to coat.
    • Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag to fill them with the custard filling or your favorite jam.

Notes

  • If you prefer jam-filled paczki, simply swap out the custard filling for your favorite fruit preserves, such as raspberry or strawberry.
  • Ensure the dough is allowed to rise properly to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
  • These baked paczki are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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