11 Polish Christmas Cookies Eastern European

11 Polish Christmas Cookies Eastern European

Lebkuchen

christmas gingerbread cookie recipe

Lebkuchen cookies are a traditional German treat commonly enjoyed during the Christmas season. These spiced gingerbread cookies come in various shapes and sizes, often adorned with icing or chocolate glaze. Their rich blend of spices and sweet flavors makes them a favorite among holiday baking enthusiasts. Here is a delightful recipe for making your own Lebkuchen cookies at home.

Ingredient Quantity
Honey 1 cup
Brown sugar 1 cup
Molasses 1/4 cup
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Baking powder 1 tsp
Ground cinnamon 2 tsp
Ground ginger 2 tsp
Ground cloves 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp
Ground almonds or nuts 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Lemon zest 1 tsp
Icing sugar For decorating

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, molasses, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and the butter is melted. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Confirm the spices are well mixed for even flavor distribution.

3. Add Wet Ingredients to Dry:

Pour the honey mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. You may need to use your hands to bring it together fully.

4. Chill the Dough:

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to roll.

5. Preheat the Oven:

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

6. Roll and Cut the Cookies:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes (such as hearts, stars, or circles) and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

7. Bake the Cookies:

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are slightly browned at the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as baking time may vary based on the size of the cookies.

8. Cool and Decorate:

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, decorate with icing sugar or dip in melted chocolate as desired.

9. Enjoy Your Lebkuchen:

Once decorated, your Lebkuchen cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and share with friends and family during the festive season.

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Makowiec

poppy seed roll recipe

Makowiec, also known as poppy seed roll, is a traditional Polish sweet bread that is often enjoyed during festive occasions, particularly at Christmas. It features a rich and tender dough filled with a flavorful poppy seed filling, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This delicious dessert is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, often topped with a light icing or powdered sugar.

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Milk 1 cup
Active dry yeast 2 tsp
Sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Salt 1 tsp
Ground poppy seeds 1 cup
Honey 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Lemon zest 1 tsp
Icing sugar For dusting

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a small saucepan, heat the milk until it is warm (not boiling). Remove from heat, sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

3. First Rise:

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Poppy Seed Filling:

In a medium bowl, combine ground poppy seeds, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Add a few tablespoons of warm water if needed to reach a spreadable consistency. Mix until well combined.

5. Roll Out the Dough:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

6. Spread the Filling:

Evenly spread the poppy seed filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges.

7. Roll and Shape:

Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal, then tuck the ends underneath the roll to form a tight loaf.

8. Second Rise:

Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and allow it to rise again for about 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed.

9. Preheat the Oven:

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

10. Bake:

Bake the makowiec in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

11. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the makowiec from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Dust with icing sugar before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Polish poppy seed roll!

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Pierniczki

polish gingerbread cookie recipe

Pierniczki, or Polish gingerbread cookies, are a beloved traditional sweet treat, particularly popular during the Christmas season. These delightful cookies are known for their warm spices, honey, and often feature a sweet glaze or coating. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with festive flavors, makes them a favorite in many Polish households during the holidays.

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Honey 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Baking soda 1 tsp
Ground ginger 2 tsp
Ground cinnamon 2 tsp
Ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp
Ground cloves 1/4 tsp
Unsalted butter 3/4 cup
Eggs 2 large
Powdered sugar For glazing
Milk As needed for glazing

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey and brown sugar, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Add the melted butter and eggs to the honey-sugar mixture and stir until smooth.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

3. Chill the Dough:

Once the dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean cloth and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out and shape.

4. Roll Out the Dough:

Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick.

5. Cut the Cookies:

Using cookie cutters, cut out various shapes from the rolled-out dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

6. Bake the Cookies:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary depending on your oven. 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.

7. Glaze the Cookies:

Once the cookies are cooled, prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk until you reach a smooth, drizzle-able consistency. Lightly drizzle or spread the glaze over the cookies as desired.

8. Store the Cookies:

Allow the glaze to set before storing the pierniczki in an airtight container. These cookies can be enjoyed fresh or will soften and develop their flavors over time, making them a perfect treat for sharing during the Christmas season.

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Krówki

polish fudge traditional treat

Krówki, also known as Polish fudge, are a beloved traditional sweet treat in Poland. These soft, chewy candies are made primarily from milk, sugar, and butter, often flavored with vanilla. Their rich, creamy texture and delightful sweetness make them a popular favorite, enjoyed year-round and especially during the Christmas season.

Ingredient Quantity
Whole milk 2 cups
Sugar 2 cups
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Salt 1/4 tsp

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cooking Pot:

Start by choosing a heavy-bottomed saucepan to guarantee even heat distribution. This will help prevent the fudge from scorching.

2. Combine Ingredients:

In the saucepan, combine the whole milk, sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together.

3. Heat the Mixture:

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously stir the mixture until the sugar and butter have completely dissolved. It’s important to keep stirring to avoid any sticking or burning.

4. Boil the Mixture:

Once the mixture comes to a gentle boil, lower the heat to medium-low, allowing it to cook. Continue to stir frequently, making sure to scrape the bottom of the saucepan to prevent burning. Boil for about 30-40 minutes, or until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (around 235°F to 240°F or 113°C to 115°C on a candy thermometer).

5. Add Flavoring:

When the fudge reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing well to incorporate.

6. Prepare the Pan:

While the fudge is still hot, quickly pour it into a greased 8×8-inch square pan or a parchment-lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

7. Cool and Cut:

Let the fudge cool at room temperature until firm. This usually takes a few hours, but you can refrigerate it for faster cooling. Once set, remove the fudge from the pan and cut it into small squares.

8. Store the Krówki:

Place the cut pieces into an airtight container. Krówki can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, where they will keep for several weeks. Enjoy these delicious homemade treats!

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Kolaczki

delicious polish pastry recipe

Kolaczki are delightful Polish pastries filled with various jams or sweet fillings, making them a popular treat during the holiday season. These soft dough pastries are easy to make and offer a perfect combination of a buttery crust with a sweet center. They are often dusted with powdered sugar, adding a touch of elegance to any Christmas dessert platter.

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Cream cheese 8 oz (1 package)
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Baking powder 1/2 tsp
Salt 1/4 tsp
Fruit preserves/jam 1/2 cup (any flavor)
Powdered sugar For dusting

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.

2. Combine Ingredients:

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky. Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

3. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the kolaczki from sticking.

4. Roll Out the Dough:

Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Divide the dough into four equal pieces to make it easier to work with. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece of dough to about 1/8 inch thick.

5. Cut the Dough:

Use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut the dough into squares approximately 3 inches by 3 inches.

6. Add the Filling:

Place a teaspoon of your chosen fruit preserves or jam in the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill to avoid spills during baking.

7. Shape the Pastries:

Fold the corners of each square towards the center to create a small pocket shape, pinching the edges to seal. Alternatively, you can leave the squares open-faced if you prefer a more rustic look.

8. Bake the Kolaczki:

Arrange the shaped kolaczki on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges.

9. Cool and Dust:

Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust generously with powdered sugar.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Kolaczki can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They are best served fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Enjoy this festive treat with family and friends during the Christmas season!

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Sernik

polish cheesecake with twar g

Sernik, or Polish cheesecake, is a beloved traditional dessert that is rich, creamy, and often made with twaróg, a type of farmers cheese. This decadent treat has a smooth texture and is typically flavored with vanilla and lemon zest, making it perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions. This version of sernik is baked to perfection with a buttery graham cracker crust that complements the custardy filling beautifully.

Ingredient Quantity
Twaróg (or ricotta) 2 lbs (softened)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Eggs 4 large
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Lemon zest 1 tbsp
Sour cream 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Graham cracker crumbs 1 1/2 cups

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and 1/4 cup of sugar, mixing until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a firm crust. Use a flat-bottomed glass or your fingers to guarantee it is tightly packed. Pre-bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then allow it to cool.

2. Prepare the Filling:

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened twaróg or ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the remaining sugar, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is free of lumps.

3. Add Eggs and Flavorings:

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate. Then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest for flavor. Gently mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

4. Assemble the Cake:

Pour the cheese filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

5. Bake the Sernik:

Bake the cheesecake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes. The edges should appear set, while the center can still have a slight jiggle.

6. Cool and Chill:

Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open to allow the cheesecake to cool gradually for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking. Afterward, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to let it set completely.

7. Serve:

Carefully run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake before releasing the sides. Slice into portions and serve chilled, optionally topped with fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy your delicious homemade Sernik!

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Zserbó

layered walnut apricot pastry

Zserbó is a traditional Hungarian dessert that has gained popularity in Poland and is especially enjoyed during the holidays. This layered pastry features a sweet and nutty filling made from ground walnuts and apricot jam, all encased in a rich, buttery dough. Topped with a chocolate glaze, Zserbó is a delightful treat that brings a festive touch to any holiday gathering.

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 3 cups
Unsalted butter (softened) 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Baking powder 1 tsp
Ground walnuts 2 cups
Apricot jam 1 cup
Powdered sugar 1 cup
Dark chocolate (for glaze) 4 oz (chopped)
Milk 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then gradually add this mixture to the butter-egg mixture, stirring until smooth. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In another bowl, mix the ground walnuts with apricot jam until combined and set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has chilled, divide it into three equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first portion into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Layer the Filling:

Spread half of the walnut-apricot filling evenly over the first layer of dough. Roll out the second portion of dough and place it on top of the filling, pressing gently to adhere. Spread the remaining filling over this layer, then roll out the third portion of dough and place it on top.

5. Bake the Pastry:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

6. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze:

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan or microwave, heat the chopped dark chocolate and milk together until melted and smooth. Stir until fully combined.

7. Finish the Zserbó:

Once the pastry has cooled, pour the chocolate glaze over the top, spreading it evenly. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature for a couple of hours before slicing.

8. Serve:

Cut the Zserbó into squares or bars and serve as a special treat during the holiday season or at any gathering. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors and textures!

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Keks

festive polish christmas cookie

Keks is a delightful Polish Christmas cookie that is popular during the holiday season. This rich and moist dessert is typically packed with fruits, nuts, and often infused with spices, making it a festive treat that captures the essence of the holidays. Keks is often sliced and served at gatherings, where its vibrant colors and chewy texture are sure to captivate family and friends.

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Unsalted butter (softened) 1 cup (2 sticks)
Eggs 3 large
Baking powder 1 tsp
Milk 1/4 cup
Dried fruits (mixed, chopped) 1 cup
Walnuts (chopped) 1 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Powdered sugar (for dusting) optional

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, guaranteeing each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

3. Add Fruits and Nuts:

Gently fold in the chopped dried fruits and walnuts into the batter, mixing until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is well combined.

4. Prepare the Baking Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inches) or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

5. Fill the Pan:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

6. Bake the Keks:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time.

7. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the Keks from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

8. Slice and Enjoy:

Slice the Keks into thick pieces and serve it at holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee. Enjoy!

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Pączki

delicious polish filled doughnuts

Pączki are a beloved Polish pastry, traditionally enjoyed during Fat Thursday and carnival season, but they are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of year. These filled doughnuts are light and fluffy, often dusted with powdered sugar or glazed, and typically filled with fruit preserves, cream, or custard. The rich flavor and soft texture make them irresistible, perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive occasions.

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Yeast (active dry) 2 1/4 tsp
Whole milk 1 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Egg yolks 6 large
Salt 1 tsp
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Filling (fruit jam, cream, etc.) 1 cup (or as desired)
Powdered sugar (for dusting) optional
Vegetable oil (for frying) enough for deep frying

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, warm the whole milk until it’s lukewarm (not hot). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center, then add the egg yolks, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the frothy yeast mixture.

3. Knead the Dough:

Mix all the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, adding flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise:

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 has doubled in size.

5. Shape the Pączki:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thick. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Place the circles on a floured surface and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

6. Fill the Doughnuts:

Once the dough circles have puffed up, take a teaspoon of filling of your choice (such as fruit jam or pastry cream) and place it in the center of each piece. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges together to seal, forming a ball.

7. Heat the Oil:

In a deep pot or fryer, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the pączki (about 2-3 inches deep) to 350°F (175°C).

8. Fry the Pączki:

Carefully drop the filled pączki into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown.

9. Drain and Cool:

Use a slotted spoon to remove the pączki from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly.

10. Dust and Serve:

Before serving, dust the pączki with powdered sugar or glaze them if desired. Serve warm and enjoy these delightful Polish pastries with family and friends!

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Raffaello

coconut white chocolate no bake cookies

Raffaello cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of coconut and creamy white chocolate, inspired by the famous Raffaello confectionery. These no-bake cookies are incredibly simple to prepare and make for a festive addition to any holiday dessert spread, especially during Christmas. With a luscious texture and a hint of almond or hazelnut, these cookies are sure to be a hit among your family and friends.

Ingredient Quantity
Sweetened shredded coconut 2 cups
Condensed milk 1 cup
Whole almonds 16-20 (whole for filling)
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
White chocolate 8 oz (for coating)
Optional: Additional shredded coconut (for coating) 1 cup

Cooking Instructions:

1. Mix the Base:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined and you have a sticky, cohesive mass.

2. Chill the Mixture:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape.

3. Form the Cookies:

Once chilled, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Take a small amount of the coconut mixture (about a tablespoon) and flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a whole almond in the center and carefully fold the coconut mixture around the almond to form a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

4. Coat the Cookies:

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 20–30 second intervals, stirring in between until it’s completely smooth. Dip each coconut ball into the melted white chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. If desired, roll them in additional shredded coconut for extra texture.

5. Set the Cookies:

Place the coated cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow the white chocolate to set at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to speed up the process.

6. Serve:

Once set, your Raffaello cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Matzah Ball Cookies

matzah ball cookie recipe

Matzah Ball Cookies are a creative twist on the traditional matzah ball, transforming the essence of classic Jewish cuisine into delightful cookies. These treats are ideal for Passover and are made with matzah meal, creating a unique texture reminiscent of the beloved dumplings. Perfectly sweetened and packed with flavor, these cookies are sure to impress both family and friends during holiday celebrations.

Ingredient Quantity
Matzah meal 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Sugar 1/2 cup
Baking powder 1 tsp
Salt 1/4 tsp
Eggs 2 large
Vegetable oil 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup
Optional: Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) 1/2 cup

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the matzah meal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.

3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and then add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is incorporated.

4. Combine the Mixtures:

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If desired, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

5. Form the Cookies:

Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking.

6. Bake the Cookies:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake them; they may seem soft when hot but will firm up as they cool.

7. Cool and Enjoy:

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Matzah Ball Cookies either warm or at room temperature!

8. Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.