Baked Paczki

Paczki (pronounced “pownch-key”) are a beloved Polish pastry, traditionally deep-fried and filled with jam or cream. These pillowy donuts are an essential part of Fat Thursday, a day dedicated to indulgence before the fasting season of Lent begins. While classic paczki are fried to golden perfection, this baked alternative offers the same delicious experience with fewer calories and less oil, making it a healthier yet equally satisfying treat.

If you love donuts but want a lighter version, this baked paczki recipe is the perfect compromise. The dough is still soft, airy, and slightly sweet, filled with traditional jam or cream, and dusted with confectioners’ sugar for that authentic touch. Whether you’re celebrating Fat Thursday or just craving a delightful pastry, these baked paczki will not disappoint!

Why This Recipe Works

Baking instead of frying paczki significantly reduces the calorie count while preserving the fluffy, rich texture that makes them so irresistible. By using whole milk, egg yolks, and a touch of oil, the dough remains tender and slightly buttery. The yeast provides that signature light, airy consistency, while the fillings add bursts of sweetness and flavor.

Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize the fillings with your favorite jams, custards, or even chocolate-hazelnut spread. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or later with a cup of coffee, these baked paczki are bound to become a favorite!

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Paczki:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)

3/4 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

Traditional Filling Options:

Fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)

Pastry cream or whipped cream

Chocolate-hazelnut spread (Nutella)

Peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist

How to Make Baked Paczki

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy—this activates the yeast.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once the yeast is activated, add it to the flour mixture along with vegetable oil and egg yolks. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The kneading process helps develop gluten, giving paczki their characteristic chewiness.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl inside an oven with the light on or near a slightly warm stovetop.

Step 5: Shape the Paczki

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles. Roll it out to 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles of dough.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange the dough rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each. Cover with a towel and let them rise again for 20-30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the paczki have risen, bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Fill the Paczki

Allow the paczki to cool slightly before filling. Use a piping bag or a small knife to make a slit and fill them with your choice of jam, custard, or cream.

Step 9: Dust & Serve

Generously dust the tops with confectioners’ sugar for that classic bakery-style look. Serve warm for the best experience!

Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

✔ Properly Proof the Yeast – Ensure your milk is warm but not hot (around 110°F / 43°C). If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired or the milk was too hot/cold.

✔ Don’t Skip the Second Rise – Allowing the dough to rise again after shaping ensures light, fluffy paczki instead of dense ones.

✔ Brush with Butter for Extra Flavor – Before baking, brush the tops with melted butter for a slightly crisp exterior and added richness.

✔ Experiment with Flavors – Add vanilla, almond extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a unique twist.

✔ Make it Vegan – Replace egg yolks with applesauce and milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Baked paczki are best served warm, making them an excellent treat for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon tea. Here are some fun ways to enjoy them:

With Coffee or Tea – Paczki pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or black tea.

Dipped in Chocolate – For extra indulgence, dip them in melted dark or white chocolate.

With Ice Cream – Slice a paczek in half and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert.

Timing Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Baking Time: 15-20 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~180 kcal (without filling)

Servings: 8-10 paczki

The History of Paczki

Paczki have been an integral part of Polish culture for centuries. Traditionally, they were made to use up rich ingredients like butter, sugar, and eggs before the fasting period of Lent. In Poland, they are mainly eaten on Fat Thursday (Tłusty Czwartek), while in the U.S., Polish-American communities celebrate Paczki Day on Fat Tuesday.

Although fried paczki remain the most popular, many people prefer baked versions as a healthier alternative that still retains the authentic flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This baked paczki recipe delivers all the deliciousness of the classic Polish treat with less oil and fewer calories. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Fat Thursday, Paczki Day, or any special occasion while keeping things a bit lighter. Whether filled with jam, cream, or Nutella, these paczki are soft, fluffy, and completely irresistible!

So why not try this homemade version and enjoy a warm, freshly baked paczek with your favorite filling? Happy baking!

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