Paczki
Paczki (pronounced 'POONCH-key') are rich, filled doughnuts of Polish origin, traditionally made with a yeast dough enriched with eggs, butter, sugar, and sometimes a splash of vodka or grain alcohol. They are deep-fried until golden and generously filled with fruit preserves (like plum or rose), custard, or cream, then often dusted with powdered sugar or glazed. They are a celebratory treat, especially popular in Poland and among Polish diaspora communities before Lent.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Paczki are very high in carbohydrates and fat due to the enriched dough and deep-frying, with a typical serving (one large doughnut) containing roughly 300-500 calories. They provide quick energy from sugars and fats but are low in protein and essential micronutrients, offering mostly indulgence rather than nutritional benefit.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 5.5 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 45 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 IU |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.2 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.8 mg |
| Folate | 50 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 80 mg |
Per 1 piece (100 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, paczki are a symbol of pre-Lenten feasting (similar to Mardi Gras), traditionally made to use up rich ingredients like eggs, sugar, and lard before the fasting season of Lent. Nutritionally, their dense, cake-like texture and generous fillings set them apart from lighter doughnuts, making them a heartier, more indulgent treat.
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AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms