15 Polish Christmas Cookie Recipes (Heirloom Bakes)

Krówki (Butter Candies)

Krówki, also known as Polish fudge or butter candies, are soft, chewy treats that melt in your mouth. These delightful sweets are made with just a few simple ingredients and are a popular choice during the Christmas season in Poland. With their rich buttery flavor and caramel-like texture, they make the perfect holiday treat for sharing with family and friends.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare Your Work Area: Begin by lining a square or rectangular baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Set the dish aside.
2. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, add the unsalted butter. Stir occasionally until it has completely melted.
3. Add Sugar and Condensed Milk: Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar and the sweetened condensed milk to the saucepan. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cook the Mixture: Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while continuously stirring. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan as you stir to prevent sticking and burning.
5. Add Vanilla and Salt: After the mixture reaches a boil, lower the heat to medium-low and keep cooking for about 15-20 minutes. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and turns a light golden color. Once thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
6. Pour into the Baking Dish: Carefully pour the thickened mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
7. Cool and Set: Allow the krówki to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours until set. For a quicker set, you can place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
8. Cut into Pieces: Once fully cooled and set, lift the krówki out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares or rectangles.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Your krówki are now ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and share them with loved ones during the Christmas festivities.

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Pierniczki (Gingerbread Cookies)

Pierniczki, or Polish gingerbread cookies, are a delightful treat that fill the Christmas season with warmth and spice. These cookies are traditionally flavored with a mix of aromatic spices, including ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and are often decorated with icing or sugar. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them a beloved holiday favorite in Poland, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare Your Work Area: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the honey, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you may add a little more flour until it reaches a workable consistency.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling will make it easier to roll out.
7. Roll and Cut Out Cookies: Once chilled, take the dough out and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 5 mm thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Decorate the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, prepare the icing by mixing icing sugar with a little water until it reaches a smooth consistency. Use a piping bag or a small spoon to decorate the cookies as desired.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Your pierniczki are now ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and share them with loved ones during the holiday season.

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Makowiec (Poppy Seed Roll)

Makowiec, or Poppy Seed Roll, is a traditional Polish pastry that is often served during the Christmas season. This sweet yeast-based roll is filled with a rich and nutty poppy seed filling, flavored with a hint of citrus and sometimes mixed with dried fruits or nuts. The combination of soft dough and the aromatic filling makes Makowiec a cherished holiday treat, perfect for sharing at family gatherings.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 37°C (98°F). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and the frothy yeast mixture.
4. Create the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Prepare the Poppy Seed Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, honey, grated lemon zest, and a splash of water. Cook over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is thick and well combined. If using, stir in chopped walnuts or dried fruits.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface to a rectangle about 1 cm thick.
8. Add the Filling: Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Shape the Roll: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal it.
10. Second Rise: Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes.
11. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
12. Bake the Roll: Bake the Makowiec in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
13. Cool and Serve: Allow the Makowiec to cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Slice and enjoy this festive treat with your loved ones!

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Keks (Polish Fruit Cake)

Keks, or Polish Fruit Cake, is a beloved holiday treat that embodies the festive spirit of Christmas in Poland. This rich and moist cake is packed with a delightful mix of dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of spices, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings. Often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, Keks is a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert table.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Fruit and Nuts: If using dried fruits that are large (like apricots), chop them into smaller pieces. Mix the dried fruits and chopped nuts together in a bowl and set aside.
3. Beat the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Finish and Serve: Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar, if desired. Slice and serve with tea or coffee, and enjoy your festive Keks!

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Rogatki (Twisted Pastry)

Rogatki, also known as twisted pastries, are delightful, sweet treats enjoyed during the Christmas season in Poland. These pastries are characterized by their unique twisted shape, often filled with sweet cheese, poppy seeds, or fruit preserves. They have a rich, buttery flavor and a tender texture, making them a popular choice for holiday gatherings and celebrations.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Add the frothy yeast mixture to this bowl and stir to combine.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form.
5. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
7. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare your desired filling. If using sweet cheese, mix it with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract for sweetness.
8. Shape the Pastries: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions (about 10-12 pieces). Roll out each piece into a long strip (about 25 cm long) on a lightly floured surface.
9. Fill and Twist: Place a spoonful of your filling in the center of each strip. Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise, pinch the edges to seal, and twist the dough to form a spiral shape.
10. Prepare to Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
11. Arrange the Pastries: Place the twisted pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
12. Let Them Rise Again: Cover the pastries with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes.
13. Bake the Pastries: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
14. Cool and Serve: Remove the Rogatki from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy your delicious twisted pastries as part of your holiday celebration!

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Sernik (Polish Cheesecake)

Sernik, or Polish cheesecake, is a beloved dessert that features a creamy, rich filling made from twaróg, a type of fresh cheese similar to cottage cheese. This dessert is often flavored with vanilla or citrus zest and has a buttery crust made from crushed biscuits or graham crackers. Sernik is a staple at Polish family gatherings, especially during the Christmas season.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed biscuits with melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, take the twaróg (or ricotta) and mash it with a fork or blend until smooth. This step is essential for a creamy cheesecake texture.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, cornstarch, and baking powder to the mashed cheese. Mix everything together until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous mixture.
4. Blend: For the best texture, you can use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring that all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
5. Transfer to Pan: Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust in the springform pan. Gently shake the pan to evenly distribute and remove any air bubbles.
6. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
7. Cool Down: Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 30 minutes. This helps to prevent cracking.
8. Refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
9. Serve: Before serving, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or serve with fruit preserves or a berry compote for added sweetness and flavor. Enjoy your homemade Sernik!

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Faworki (Angel Wings)

Faworki, also known as Angel Wings, are a traditional Polish pastry often served during festive occasions, particularly around Christmas time. These light and crispy treats are made from a simple dough that is twisted into intricate shapes and dusted with powdered sugar, making them a delightful addition to holiday cookie platters.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into smaller portions for easier handling. Roll each portion out into thin sheets (about 1/8 inch thick) using a rolling pin. The thinner the rolled dough, the crispier the faworki will be.
4. Cut the Shapes: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into rectangles (approximately 2 inches by 4 inches). Then, make a cut in the center of each rectangle and pull one end through the cut to create a twisted shape.
5. Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat, ensuring there’s enough oil to submerge the faworki as they fry. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of dough in; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
6. Fry the Faworki: Carefully add a few twisted dough pieces at a time to the hot oil. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
7. Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the faworki from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After the faworki have cooled slightly, generously dust them with powdered sugar before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the faworki on a platter and share them with family and friends. They make a festive and delicious treat during the holiday season!

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Łazanki (Pasta Cookies)

Łazanki, or pasta cookies, are a delightful Polish treat that combines the tenderness of pasta with the sweetness of dessert. Often enjoyed during special occasions, especially around Christmas, these bite-sized cookies are typically shaped like small squares or rectangles and tossed with sugar before baking to achieve a light and fluffy texture.

Cooking Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough is formed.
2. Knead and Rest: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently for about 2-3 minutes until it is smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting period will make it easier to roll out and shape.
3. Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into smaller portions for easier handling. Roll each portion out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep the dough as thin as possible while still being manageable.
4. Cut into Shapes: Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into squares or rectangles (approximately 1 to 2 inches in size). Place the cut shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you prepare the cookies.
6. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are slightly golden and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
7. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool briefly on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the łazanki as part of your holiday cookie platter or enjoy them as a sweet treat on their own. These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee!

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Pączki (Polish Doughnuts)

Pączki, Polish doughnuts, are a beloved treat that often graces tables during festivities, especially on Fat Thursday (Tłusty Czwartek) in Poland, which marks the last Thursday before Lent. These deep-fried, fluffy delights are typically filled with fruit preserves, custard, or sweet cream, and are topped with a sugary glaze or powdered sugar. The indulgent nature of pączki makes them a perfect dessert for Christmas celebrations and special occasions.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Warm the milk in a small saucepan until it’s lukewarm (not hot). In a bowl, combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Doughnuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick on a floured surface. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Gather the scraps, re-knead, and roll out again to cut more circles.
5. Add Filling: Place about 1 teaspoon of your chosen jam or filling in the center of half of the rounds. Carefully place another round on top, sealing the edges by pinching firmly. Verify the filling is completely enclosed.
6. Second Rise: Place the filled doughnuts on a floured baking sheet, cover them lightly with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes until they are puffed and doubled in size.
7. Heat the Oil: In a deep saucepan, heat enough oil to submerge the doughnuts (about 2-3 inches deep) to a temperature of approximately 180°C (350°F). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
8. Fry the Doughnuts: Gently place a few doughnuts in the hot oil (do not overcrowd) and fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Cool and Coat: Once cooled, dust the pączki generously with powdered sugar or coat them in a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or water. If desired, you can also drizzle chocolate or fondant glaze over the top.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Your pączki are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm or at room temperature, and savor the delicious flavor of these traditional Polish doughnuts.

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Snickers (Nut and Chocolate Cookies)

Snickers cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and caramel flavors, reminiscent of the famous candy bar. These cookies are a hit during the holiday season and make for a perfect treat to share with family and friends. With layers of textures from the chewy cookie base to the smooth chocolate and crunchy nuts, Snickers cookies will surely please any sweet tooth.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well blended and set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Flavors: With a spatula, gently fold in the chopped Snickers bars, chopped peanuts, and chocolate chips into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop and Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space in between each cookie as they will spread.
8. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will firm up as they cool.
9. Cool on Baking Sheet: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve your Snickers cookies to family and friends, and enjoy the delightful chocolatey, nutty flavors!

Biszkopty (Sponge Cookies)

Biszkopty, or sponge cookies, are light and airy treats that are perfect for any occasion. They are often enjoyed with coffee or tea and can be used as a base for layered desserts. These cookies are characterized by their delicate texture and subtle sweetness, making them a beloved staple in Polish baking.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed until it becomes thick, fluffy, and pale in color—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Gently mix in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder until evenly mixed.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter; use gentle folding motions until the flour is just combined.
6. Scoop the Batter: Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small mounds of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie as they will expand while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and spring back when lightly pressed.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, lightly dust the biszkopty with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Enjoy your homemade biszkopty with your favorite beverage or as part of a festive dessert display!

Babka (Sweet Yeast Bread)

Babka is a traditional Polish yeast bread that is both sweet and fluffy, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. It can be enriched with various fillings such as chocolate, nuts, or dried fruits, and is typically baked in a bundt or loaf pan, resulting in a beautifully textured bread with a deliciously sweet aroma. Babka is perfect for serving at family gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C) with the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, and salt until evenly combined. Create a well in the center.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Into the well of flour, add the frothy yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough starts to form.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
6. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare your filling of choice (chocolate, nuts, dried fruits) by chopping or mixing it as necessary.
7. Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick.
8. Add the Filling: Evenly sprinkle your filling over the rolled-out dough, pressing it gently into the surface. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
9. Form the Babka: Slice the rolled dough in half lengthwise to expose the filling. Twist the two halves together and shape it into a spiral or braid. Place the twisted dough into a greased bundt or loaf pan.
10. Second Rise: Cover the pan with a towel and let the babka rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen noticeably.
11. Preheat the Oven: While the babka is rising, preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
12. Bake the Babka: After the second rise, bake the babka in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the babka from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, dust it with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.

Enjoy your homemade babka fresh or toasted with butter, or simply indulge in its sweetness during festive gatherings!

Kolaczki (Fruit-Filled Pastries)

Kolaczki are delightful Polish pastries that are often filled with various fruit preserves or sweet fillings. These treats are beloved during the holiday season and are known for their flaky, buttery crust and sweet interior. Kolaczki can be made with fruit fillings such as apricot, raspberry, or cream cheese, making them a versatile and appealing dessert that is sure to please everyone at your holiday gatherings.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and softened cream cheese. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Sugar and Egg Yolk: Mix in the granulated sugar and the egg yolk. Add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a bit of cold water, one teaspoon at a time, until it comes together.
3. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make it easier to roll out.
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
5. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Cut the Dough: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the rolled-out dough into squares of about 3 inches.
7. Fill the Pastries: Place a small spoonful of fruit preserves in the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the filling to ooze out during baking.
8. Fold the Pastries: Bring two opposite corners of each square together to form a triangle or fold them into a rectangle, pinching the edges to seal. Optionally, you can also leave the corners open for a different presentation.
9. Bake the Kolaczki: Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
10. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the kolaczki from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Before serving, dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Enjoy these delicious kolaczki with a cup of coffee or tea, and share them with friends and family during the holiday season!

Szarlotka (Apple Pie Cookies)

Szarlotka, also known as Polish apple pie, is a comforting and delicious dessert that celebrates the flavors of fresh apples. These cookie versions of the classic pie combine a buttery, crumbly dough with sweet and spiced apples, creating the ultimate treat for any holiday gathering or cozy afternoon snack.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Toss well to coat the apples and set aside to allow the flavors to mingle while you prepare the dough.
2. Make the Dough: In another large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Pour in the beaten egg and vanilla extract, then mix until the dough starts to come together. It should be slightly sticky yet manageable; if it’s too dry, you can add a teaspoon of water as needed.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into discs. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, take one disc of dough and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter (approximately 3 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the rolled dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Fill the Cookies: Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill the cookies as this can cause them to burst during baking.
8. Seal the Cookies: Take the second disc of dough and roll it out in the same manner. Use a round cutter to cut out additional circles. Place these circles over the filled cookies and press the edges gently to seal them. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent burning.
10. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a sweet finishing touch.

Enjoy these delightful Szarlotka cookies as a perfect blend of fruity goodness and buttery pastry!

Ciasteczka Orzechowe (Nut Cookies)

Ciasteczka Orzechowe, or Polish Nut Cookies, are a delightful treat characterized by their rich, nutty flavor and crumbly texture. These cookies are made with ground nuts, typically walnuts or hazelnuts, which lend an irresistible taste that perfectly complements the sweetness of a dusting of powdered sugar. They are a cherished dessert during the Christmas season in Poland and are sure to bring warmth and comfort to your holiday gatherings.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Nuts: If you are using whole nuts, start by grinding them into a fine meal using a food processor. Measure out one cup of the ground nuts and set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground nuts, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to guarantee the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla: Add the beaten egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to come together without becoming tough.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle during the rolling process.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, take tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until they turn a light golden brown on the edges. Keep an eye on them to guarantee they don’t over-bake.
10. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
11. Serve and Enjoy: These nut cookies can be enjoyed fresh or stored in an airtight container for several days. They make a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter!