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Traditional Polish Pączki – Jam-Filled Donuts Recipe

If you’re a fan of soft, fluffy donuts filled with sweet goodness, these traditional Polish pączki are an absolute must-try. Known for their rich texture and irresistible jam-filled center, these classic treats are a beloved staple in Polish baking and are especially popular during festive celebrations. What makes homemade pączki donuts unique is their incredibly soft, pillowy dough enriched with egg yolks and butter, giving them a rich flavor and delicate crumb. Unlike regular donuts, these are slightly denser yet incredibly tender, with a golden exterior lightly dusted in powdered sugar. This jam-filled donut recipe is perfect for anyone looking to recreate authentic bakery-style treats at home. Whether you fill them with fruit jam, berry preserves, or any favorite filling, each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and softness.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥚 Dough Base
  • 4 large egg yolks
🧂 Dry Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
🧈 Dairy Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole milk warm
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
🌿 Flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍓 Filling & Finish
  • Jam your choice, such as strawberry or raspberry
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
🛢️ For Frying
  • Vegetable oil enough for deep frying

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.

  • 🍳

    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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  • ⚡

    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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  • 🔥

    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Equipment

  • To prepare these Polish donuts, you’ll need:
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling Pin
  • Round cutter or glass
  • Deep frying pan or pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Piping bag or syringe (for filling)

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Warm the milk until it’s slightly warm but not hot. Add yeast and a teaspoon of sugar, then let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2:
  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and nutmeg.
Step 3:
  1. Add egg yolks, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
Step 4:
  1. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5:
  1. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6:
  1. Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness.
Step 7:
  1. Cut into circles using a round cutter.
Step 8:
  1. Place the dough circles on a tray, cover, and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 9:
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
Step 10:
  1. Fry the donuts in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 11:
  1. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 12:
  1. Once slightly cooled, fill each donut with jam using a piping bag.
Step 13:
  1. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
🥶 Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
🔥 Reheating
Warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds
💡 Tip: Best enjoyed fresh for maximum softness.
🥄 Variations
Make your pączki donuts even more exciting:
Custard Filling: Use vanilla cream instead of jam
Chocolate Version: Fill with chocolate spread
Citrus Flavor: Add lemon zest to the dough
Glazed Finish: Dip in sugar glaze instead of powdered sugar
Mini Donuts: Make smaller bite-sized versions
❓ 10 FAQs
1. What are pączki?
They are traditional Polish jam-filled donuts.
2. Why use egg yolks only?
They create a richer, softer dough.
3. Can I bake instead of fry?
Frying gives the authentic texture, but baking is possible.
4. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable oil work best.
5. How do I know oil is ready?
Use a thermometer or test with a small dough piece.
6. Can I freeze pączki?
Yes, before filling for best results.
7. Why didn’t my dough rise?
The yeast may not have been activated properly.
8. Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, adjust the method slightly.
9. How do I fill donuts neatly?
Use a piping bag with a narrow tip.
10. What jam works best?
Thick fruit jams like raspberry or strawberry.
🏁 Conclusion
These traditional Polish pączki are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves soft, rich, and perfectly sweet donuts. With their fluffy texture and delicious jam filling, they bring authentic bakery flavor straight to your kitchen.
Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, this jam-filled donut recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.