Doughnuts vs Paczki: Chicago Polish Bakery Explains the Difference on Paczki Day

"Paczki," a Polish pastry, is richer and heavier than traditional doughnuts. It's a hot item in Chicago, with long lines.

Paczki, the traditional Polish pastries pronounced "puhnch·kee," may look similar to a typical American doughnut, but the differences are significant. According to Dobra Bielinski of Delightful Pastries in Portage Park, the distinctions are clear. A doughnut contains water, salt, sugar, and yeast, while paczek includes eggs, yolks, lemon oil, milk, butter, and plenty of eggs. The dough for paczki is richer and denser than that of a doughnut, and it is complemented by a sweet fruit preserve filling, a thin glaze on top, and a hint of orange or lemon peel, or even a trace of rose.

The tradition of paczki dates back to the 1700s, when people would use up luxurious foods like lard and sugar to ensure they wouldn't be wasted during Lent, a 40-day period of fasting in Christianity. Families would indulge in these rich donuts, using up eggs, butter, sugar, and fruit before Lent began. The tradition quickly expanded to Chicago and other communities where a large number of Polish individuals settled during the 20th century. Since then, many people have come to enjoy paczki, regardless of their background or religion.

Bielinski emphasized that paczek has only a thin glaze on top, and it doesn't collapse when eaten. It fluffs right back up, making it a delightful treat for those who enjoy pastries. The popularity of paczki is evident, as dozens of customers lined up outside her bakery early Tuesday for Paczki Day. The demand for paczki is high, and people love the tradition of indulging in these rich pastries before Lent begins.

The paczki tradition has become a significant part of the celebration of Fat Tuesday, with many bakeries and grocery stores in the Chicago area serving up the sweet treats. Whether you're a long-time fan of paczki or looking to try it for the first time, there are plenty of options to satisfy your craving for this delicious Polish pastry.

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