Are you a fan of traditional Polish cuisine, but looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further! Polish desserts are known for their rich flavors, intricate designs, and delightful textures. From classic cheesecakes to decadent chocolate cakes, there’s something for everyone in this list of 20 delicious Polish dessert recipes. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of Polish sweets, exploring traditional treats like Apple Pie, Poppy Seed Roll, and Honey Cake, as well as modern twists on old favorites. Whether you’re a native Pole or just a lover of all things sweet, get ready to indulge in these mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new family traditions.
Traditional Polish Apple Pie
This classic Polish dessert, known as “szarlotka,” is a staple of Polish cuisine and a delicious treat for any occasion. With its tender crust and sweet-tart apple filling, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup grated apple (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. In a separate bowl, mix grated apple with beaten egg and milk.
5. Place the apple mixture onto one half of the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Polish Poppy Seed Roll
Polish Poppy Seed Roll Recipe
Traditionally served at Polish holidays and celebrations, this sweet bread is a staple of Polish cuisine. This recipe brings together the classic combination of ground poppy seeds, honey, and warm spices to create a delicious and aromatic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground poppy seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir until dissolved.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs and melted butter.
5. Add ground poppy seeds, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
6. Knead dough for 10 minutes.
7. Place dough on a floured surface, shape into a log, and roll out to desired thickness.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Polish Cheesecake
Classic Polish Cheesecake Recipe
This beloved Polish dessert, known as “Sernik,” is a creamy and crumbly delight that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Polish Honey Cake
A classic Polish dessert, this honey cake (Makowiec) is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. Made with ground almonds, honey, and spices, it’s a moist and flavorful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almonds, flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, egg, and milk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Polish Donuts (Pączki)
Pączki are sweet, fried doughnuts filled with jam or cream and topped with powdered sugar – a traditional Polish treat. This recipe yields a dozen delicious Pączki that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Filling of your choice (e.g., jam, cream, or fruit preserves)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and warm milk. Mix until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar, salt, and vegetable oil. Knead the dough until it’s elastic and shiny.
3. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Punch down the dough and roll out into balls. Fry Pączki for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and fill with your chosen filling.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Polish Mazurek Easter Cake
Mazurek Easter Cake is a beloved Polish tradition, symbolizing the hope and renewal of Easter. This rich and buttery cake is a staple at every Easter celebration, filled with sweet and fragrant filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Filling: jam or preserves (such as strawberry or apricot)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Beat in eggs, ground almonds, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before filling with jam or preserves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Polish Plum Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a classic Polish dessert, perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh plums and a hint of cinnamon, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh plums (about 4-5 plums)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped plums.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Polish Kolaczki Cookies
Kolaczki cookies are a classic Polish treat that combines tender pastry with sweet or savory fillings. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, sharing, or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Filling of your choice (e.g., Nutella, jam, chopped nuts)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles, squares).
4. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each piece.
5. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Polish Blueberry Pierogi
Savor the sweet taste of Poland with these tender blueberry-filled pierogi, a classic Polish dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These chewy dumplings are wrapped in a delicate dough and filled to the brim with a juicy blueberry filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Filling:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into smaller pieces and roll out each piece into a thin circle.
4. Place a tablespoon of blueberry filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry pierogi until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with your favorite topping or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Polish Chocolate Babka
Polish Chocolate Babka Recipe
Rich, chocolatey babka is a beloved Polish treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a decadent, gooey-filled cake that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add lukewarm milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Sprinkle with chocolate chips.
6. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the longer sides. Place in the prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Polish Strawberry Kissel
Kissel is a traditional Polish dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of lemon and sugar. This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tart kissel that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar.
2. Add the water and lemon juice to the saucepan and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and a splash of cold water until smooth.
5. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the kissel has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Sernik with Raisins
Polish Sernik with Raisins Recipe
Summary: This traditional Polish cheesecake-like dessert is a classic combination of sweet and tangy, featuring a rich filling made with cheese, sugar, and raisins. Our recipe simplifies the process to bring you a deliciously moist and flavorful sernik at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. Mix flour and sugar in a bowl. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir well.
4. Pour the filling mixture over the crust and smooth out.
5. Sprinkle raisins on top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Polish Angel Wings (Chruściki)
These delicate, sweet, and airy treats are a classic Polish dessert. Chruściki are a staple at Polish celebrations and are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. If using rose water, add it to the mixture and mix well.
6. Using a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off, pipe the mixture into long, thin strips (about 1/4 inch wide).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Polish Rhubarb Compote
This sweet and tangy compote is a classic Polish dessert, perfect for serving warm or chilled as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. The rhubarb’s natural tartness is balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the subtle flavor of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Polish Poppy Seed Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a classic Polish dessert, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. The combination of ground poppy seeds, sweet raisins, and subtle vanilla flavor creates a delightful taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup ground poppy seeds
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in ground poppy seeds and raisins.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Polish Cream Cheese Kolacky
Polish Cream Cheese Kolacky Recipe
These tender and flaky pastry pockets are filled with a creamy cheese filling, perfect for a snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients, you can create these traditional Polish treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Spoon tablespoon-sized dollops of the cheese mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around each filling.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
7. Place kolacky on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Polish Raspberry Tart
This traditional Polish dessert combines sweet and tart flavors with a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for warm weather, this tart is a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a bowl, mix raspberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
3. Arrange the raspberry mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
6. Allow tart to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Polish Caramel Walnut Roll
This traditional Polish dessert, also known as “Ruszta z orzechami”, is a sweet and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions. A flaky pastry crust filled with a rich caramel filling and topped with toasted walnuts will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let cool slightly.
5. Spread cooled caramel mixture evenly over pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over caramel layer.
7. Roll up pastry tightly, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into slices and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Polish Cherry Strudel
Polish Cherry Strudel: A Sweet Treat from Eastern Europe
This classic Polish dessert combines the sweetness of cherries with the flaky crust of a strudel, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup of cherry preserves
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread cherry preserves evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
4. Mix sugar, flour, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the cherries.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the sugar mixture.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg.
7. Roll strudel into a log shape, starting from one of the long sides.
8. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Polish Almond Mazurek
Mazurek is a classic Polish dessert that combines the crunch of almonds with the sweetness of honey and chocolate. This simple recipe yields a delicious and elegant treat perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together almonds and sugar. Add softened butter and stir until combined.
3. Press the almond mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted. Let cool completely.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled almond mixture. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes for baking, plus melting time for chocolate.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet treats of Poland with these 20 delicious dessert recipes! From classic cheesecake and chocolate babka, to traditional apple pie and plum cake, there’s something for every taste. Discover the art of making perfect pączki (Polish donuts), or try your hand at making kolacky cookies filled with cream cheese or poppy seeds. With a variety of sweet and savory flavors, these Polish desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a new dessert to try or want to connect with your heritage, this collection has got you covered.
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