Donuts that melt in your mouth – the best homemade recipe

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2. Shape the donuts

  1. Once risen, roll the dough out to about 2 cm (¾ inch) thickness.

  2. Cut out circles using a glass or cookie cutter.

  3. Place a small spoonful of jam in the center of half of the circles, then cover each with another circle of dough.

  4. Gently pinch the edges to seal.

3. Second rise

Place the donuts on parchment paper, cover, and let them rest for another 30 minutes to rise again before frying.

4. Frying

  1. Heat vegetable oil (such as canola) in a deep pot to 170–180°C (340–355°F).

  2. Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil and fry each side until golden brown.

  3. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

5. Finishing touches

When the donuts have cooled slightly:

  • Dust with powdered sugar, or drizzle with chocolate glaze.

  • You can also fill them with cream using a piping bag if you prefer cream-filled pączki.

🫶 Serving & Storage Tips

Pączki taste best the same day — they’re soft inside with a delicate, crisp edge.

To store:

  • Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

  • For longer storage, freeze them and reheat slightly before serving.

🍫 Variations

  • Modern twist: Try fillings like Nutella, salted caramel, almond cream, or mascarpone with fresh fruit.

  • Citrus aroma: Add grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use high-quality butter and fresh flour for the perfect “melt-in-your-mouth” texture.

  • Maintain the right oil temperature — too low and they’ll soak up oil; too high and they’ll brown too fast but stay raw inside.

  • Flip gently while frying for even color and texture.

❤️ Conclusion

Pączki are more than just a dessert — they’re a symbol of celebration, family, and the love of good food.
With this homemade recipe, you can enjoy the full, rich flavor and cloud-like texture of these classic Polish donuts anytime.

Cook with passion, serve with pride, and savor every bite!

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pączki without yeast?
Yes, but they’ll turn out more like fritters. Use baking powder and yogurt as an alternative.

Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! Try cream, fruit compote, cottage cheese, or even savory fillings for a twist.

How much oil do they absorb?
It depends on temperature and frying time — cooler oil makes the dough absorb more fat, so keep the oil consistently hot.

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