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### Instructions for Making Paczki (Polish Baked Donuts)
#### Step 1: Activate the Yeast
1. In a small bowl, warm the **milk** to about 110°F (43°C). It should feel warm to the touch, but not hot.
2. Add the **yeast** and **1 tablespoon of sugar** to the warm milk. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This activates the yeast, ensuring your dough will rise properly.
#### Step 2: Make the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the **flour**, **remaining sugar**, and **salt**.
2. Add the **eggs** (both egg yolks and whole eggs), **vanilla extract**, **lemon zest** (if using), and the **yeast mixture** into the flour mixture. Stir until the ingredients begin to form a dough.
3. Gradually add in the **softened butter**, piece by piece, kneading as you go. This will create a smooth, elastic dough.
4. Once all the butter is incorporated, knead the dough on a floured surface for about **8-10 minutes**, or until it is soft and elastic.
#### Step 3: First Rise
1. Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about **1-2 hours**, or until it has doubled in size.
#### Step 4: Shape the Paczki
1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air.
2. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about **½-inch thickness**.
3. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass (about **3 inches in diameter**) to cut circles from the dough.
4. Place the cut dough circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Cover with a towel and let the dough rise again for about **30 minutes**.
#### Step 5: Bake the Paczki
1. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
2. Once the dough has risen, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for **12-15 minutes**, or until the paczki are golden brown.
3. Remove the baked paczki from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
#### Step 6: Fill the Paczki
1. Once the paczki are slightly cooled, use a small piping bag or a pastry injector to fill them with your chosen filling.
– **For fruit preserves**: Use a thick fruit jam or preserve like raspberry or apricot.
– **For vanilla custard**: Make a thick vanilla custard, or buy a pre-made version from the store.
– **For chocolate ganache**: Fill them with your favorite chocolate ganache for a rich, indulgent treat.
#### Step 7: Add the Finishing Touch
1. After filling your paczki, dust them generously with **powdered sugar** for that classic, sweet finish.
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### Why You’ll Love Paczki (Polish Baked Donuts)
– **Rich and Flavorful**: Paczki are rich in flavor, thanks to the buttery dough and sweet fillings. The slight hint of vanilla and citrus zest adds a fresh twist to the traditional donut.
– **Baked, Not Fried**: While the classic version of paczki is fried, this baked version is lighter and healthier, but without compromising on taste or texture.
– **Customizable Fillings**: Whether you prefer fruit preserves, custard, or chocolate, you can customize the filling to suit your taste. You can even experiment with different flavors to make your paczki unique.
– **Perfect for Special Occasions**: Traditionally enjoyed around Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday, or other celebrations, paczki are perfect for any festive occasion. They also make for an impressive homemade gift or dessert for family gatherings.
– **Tender and Fluffy**: The dough, thanks to the yeast and butter, is incredibly soft and pillowy. Each bite melts in your mouth.
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### Tips for Success
– **Don’t Overwork the Dough**: Over-kneading the dough can lead to tough paczki. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
– **Let the Dough Rise Properly**: Make sure the dough has enough time to rise fully during both the first and second rises. This ensures your paczki will be light and fluffy.
– **Experiment with Fillings**: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Try different jams, custards, or even whipped cream for a fun variation.
– **Serve Fresh**: These are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment.
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### Conclusion
Paczki are a delicious Polish tradition that’s enjoyed by people all around the world, especially during the Mardi Gras season. This baked version provides a lighter alternative to the fried classic while maintaining all the delicious, rich flavors. With a soft, buttery dough and a choice of decadent fillings, these paczki are sure to be a hit at any celebration. Try making them at home and treat your family and friends to a little slice of Polish heaven!
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