Pączki z Mazura - Polish Cream-Filled Doughnuts

Indulge in the sweet essence of Poland with this classic recipe for Pączki z Mazura. These delectable cream-filled doughnuts are a staple during Wigilia and other festive occasions. With their tender, airy texture and rich mazura filling, these treats promise to transport you straight to the heart of Polish cuisine.
“Pączki: A bite-sized celebration wrapped in tradition.”
Highlights
- Prep Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 doughnuts
- Calories: 420kcal
Ingredients
Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Filling:
- 1 cup mazura (Polish plum butter or seedless red prune jam)
Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm milk. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
Shape Doughnuts: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into rounds using a doughnut cutter or two different-sized round cutters.
Second Rise: Place shaped doughnuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover lightly with a cloth, and let them rise again for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Fry Doughnuts: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Fill Doughnuts: Once cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a small tip to fill the doughnuts with mazura.
Dust and Serve: Dust the filled doughnuts generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:
- Serving: 1 doughnut
- Calories: 420kcal
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 8g
- Total Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
Serve these delightful Pączki z Mazura with a cup of hot coffee or tea for an authentic Polish experience. With their tender, airy texture and rich mazura filling, these treats promise to transport you straight to the heart of Polish cuisine.