Bakeries Across the U.S. Offer Pączki for Pre-Lenten Indulgence

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Pączki, a rich, deep-fried Polish donut filled with custards or jams, is a beloved pre-Lenten treat. As Ash Wednesday approaches, bakeries across the United States with large Polish populations are gearing up to sell these specialty pastries, which are traditionally consumed on Fat Thursday in Poland or Fat Tuesday in the U.S. The article highlights some of the top bakeries on the East and Midwest coasts that are known for their Pączki offerings.

Why it matters

Pączki is an important cultural tradition for Polish communities, marking the end of the Carnival season before the start of Lent. The ability to find authentic Pączki at local bakeries allows these communities to continue celebrating their heritage, while also introducing the pastry to a wider audience.

The details

Pączki are made by deep-frying a rich dough and then filling it with flavored custards or jams such as rosehip, plum, or fruit. In addition to Pączki, Polish bakeries also often sell Faworki, which are thin strips of dough that are deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Bakeries across the U.S. with large Polish populations, such as in Chicago, Milwaukee, New York, and Florida, are preparing for the high demand for Pączki leading up to Ash Wednesday.

• Pączki is traditionally consumed on Fat Thursday, or Tłusty Czwartek, in Poland.
• In the U.S., Pączki Day is celebrated on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.