What’s a Paczki? (If you’re asking this question, you must live outside of Metro Detroit.) A Paczki is deep-fried dough that is usually covered in glaze and/or icing and filled with a sweet filling such as creme or fruit jams. Yes, we know this sounds like a typical donut, but they are different. A Paczki is made of especially rich dough containing eggs, fats, sugar, yeast and sometimes milk. This delicacy originates from the Polish culture.
Paczki Day is also known as Fat Tuesday. But why? This day falls right before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent season. Traditionally, those who participated in Lent fasted for a 40-day period. They were only allowed to eat one meal per day and fully fasted on Fridays, and were not allowed to partake in any rich foods. Because of this, families would use up all of their fatty, rich foods to make Paczki so the foods wouldn’t be wasted and they could treat themselves before the Lent season.
Paczki Day is big in Metro Detroit because we have a large Polish immigrant community. With many traditional Polish bakeries in the area, there will be lines out the door to get these sacred Paczki donuts in hand. Here are some of the best places to get your hands on Paczki this year!
New Palace Bakery
9833 Joseph Campau Ave
Hamtramck, MI 48212
New Martha Washington Bakery
10335 Joseph Campau Ave
Hamtramck, MI 48212
Dutch Girl Donuts
19000 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48203
Knapp’s Donut Shop
6057 Rochester Rd
Troy, MI 48085
East Detroit Bakery & Deli
17530 E 9 Mile Rd
Eastpointe, MI 48021
Let us know what your favorite spots are to buy Paczki!
