Baked Paczki (Polish Donuts)

INGREDIENTS:

For the Dough:

1 cup whole milk (warmed to 110°F/43°C)

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs (at room temperature)

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 1/2–4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

Your choice of fillings : Fruit preserves (like raspberry, apricot, or plum), pastry cream, chocolate ganache, or Nutella.

For the Topping:

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Optional glaze : Mix powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice for a sweet drizzle.

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.

Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all 4 cups—stop when the dough is slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Paczki

Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface.

Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles (about 2–3 inches in diameter).

Place the cut-out dough rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each for rising.

Cover the dough rounds with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Paczki

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .

Bake the paczki for 8–10 minutes , or until golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool completely before filling.

Step 6: Fill and Top

Use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to inject your chosen filling into the center of each paczek. Alternatively, use a small knife to cut a slit and spoon the filling inside.

Dust the tops with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.