Paczki: Traditional Polish Baked Donuts with a Delightful Twist

Serving: These paczki are best served fresh out of the oven, warm and dusted with powdered sugar. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Storage: Store leftover paczki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh them, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Variations:

Chocolate Paczki: For a chocolate-filled version, replace the fruit jam with your favorite chocolate ganache or Nutella.
Lemon or Orange Paczki: Use lemon or orange curd for a zesty and refreshing twist on the traditional filling.
Glazed Paczki: Instead of powdered sugar, dip the baked paczki in a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a shiny, sweet coating.
FAQ:

1. Can I use a different filling besides jam or custard?
Yes! You can experiment with different fillings like chocolate hazelnut spread, lemon curd, or even cream cheese frosting.

2. Can I freeze these paczki?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked paczki after filling and shaping them. Simply place them on a baking sheet in the freezer, and once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. To bake, just let them thaw for 30-60 minutes before baking as directed.

3. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can try using whole wheat flour for a slightly different texture. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the paczki denser.

Paczki are a delicious, indulgent treat that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether for special occasions like Fat Tuesday or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these baked donuts filled with jam or custard will add a touch of Polish tradition and a lot of flavor to your day.