The Poles call them Pączki, a diminutive plural of the polish word pąk “bud”. In German-speaking countries, they are known either as Berliner or Krapfen. North Americans call them Bismarks or Jelly Doughnuts. No matter what you call them these fluffy, somewhat collapsed pastries are a Carnival staple and taste best homemade and still warm….
Category: Poland
How to make your own vanilla sugar
Alongside saffron, vanilla is probably the world’s most expensive spice. This is mostly due to the elaborate cultivation and maturing process of vanilla and also to its undisputed popularity. The fragrant aroma of fresh vanilla enhances and refines many desserts and sweet dishes. But what to do with the scraped pod? It’s too good to throw…
Gingerbread Cookies
I didn’t plan to bake any Christmas cookies this year since we are spending Christmas abroad, but my kids just wouldn’t stop talking about baking gingerbread and kids can be VERY persistent.
Kefir Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and impossible to resist; I just had one for breakfast.
Polish Szarlotka with Meringue
Apple cakes are among the most popular cakes in the world. Probably every country has its own version of that delicious dessert. I already published a recipe for a German apple cake (Apfelkuchen) and – just a few days ago – the recipe for a French apple tart (Tarte aux Pommes). Today I would like to…
Wiśniówka (Polish Cherry Liqueur)
Wiśniówka is a Polish nalewka – an aged cordial. The most common types are made with fruit and either vodka or rectified spirits. This recipe for cherry nalewka or wiśniówka is traditionally made with Morello cherries, a sour type of cherry. If Morello cherries aren’t available in your area, you can use other sour or sweet…
Eggs in Spring Dressing
Perfect for an Easter Brunch and ready in only 20 minutes.
Faworki, Chrust, Angel Wings
Known by many names, meaning dried twigs or brushwood, Chrust, Faworki or Angel Wings, these little, powdered sugar treats appear en masse in the last week of Carnival, just before Lent. Trays piled high with Faworki and Pączki fill the supermarkets and bakeries for Tłusty Czwartek or Fat Thursday. Faworki are also very popular in areas of the U.S….
Sauerkraut with peas and mushrooms
I planned to write and publish this recipe before Christmas, instead, I got caught up in Christmas preparations combined with a bad case of cold. Still, better late than never and sauerkraut is winter food anyway so it’s the perfect time for you to try it. I always associate this dish with Christmas, especially with Christmas Eve….
Szarlotka (Polish apple cake)
This Polish version of an apple cake tastes best when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice.
