Gluten-Free, Vegan & Oil-Free Pączki (Polish Doughnuts)

 Tłusty Czwartek: A Celebration of Sweet Traditions

Tłusty Czwartek (Fat Thursday) is one of the most delicious days of the year in Poland! Traditionally, it's the last Thursday before Lent, a time when people indulge in rich and sweet treats before the fasting period begins. The star of the day? Pączki (Polish doughnuts) – soft, pillowy doughnuts usually fried and filled with jams, custards, or creams. But what if you have dietary restrictions? That doesn’t mean you have to miss out!

This year, I decided to bake my own oil-free, gluten-free, low-FODMAP, and vegan pączki, ensuring everyone can enjoy Tłusty Czwartek's spirit without compromising their health or dietary needs. These baked doughnuts are light yet satisfying, naturally sweetened, and filled with delicious flavors.

Let’s dive into this special recipe!

Pączki (Polish Doughnuts)

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) gluten-free oat flour

• 1/2 cup (60g) rice flour

• 1/4 cup (30g) potato starch

• 1 tbsp psyllium husk (for elasticity)

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm plant milk (almond or rice for low-FODMAP)

• 1/4 cup (60g) mashed ripe banana (or pumpkin puree)

• 2 tbsp erythritol

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup (120g) homemade or store-bought low-FODMAP fruit jam (e.g., raspberry, blueberry)

For the topping:

• 1/4 cup (60g) coconut yogurt

• 1 tbsp powdered erythritol

• 2 tbsp finely chopped dried oranges (or freeze-dried fruit)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the dough by combining oat flour, rice flour, potato starch, psyllium husk, baking powder, and baking soda in a mixing bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm plant milk, mashed banana (or pumpkin puree), erythritol, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar.

4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick, sticky dough forms. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.

5. Divide the dough into equal portions and roll into small balls. Flatten slightly and place on the baking tray.

6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden and firm to the touch. Let cool slightly.

7. Using a piping bag or a small spoon, carefully fill each pączek with jam.

8. Prepare the topping by mixing coconut yogurt with powdered erythritol. Spread a small amount on each pączek and sprinkle with dried oranges or freeze-dried fruit.

9. Enjoy fresh or store in the fridge for up to 2 days!

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A Healthier Way to Celebrate

Tłusty Czwartek is all about indulgence, but indulgence doesn’t have to mean unhealthy! These baked, oil-free pączki offer a delicious alternative to traditional fried versions while keeping the festive spirit alive. Whether you follow a gluten-free, low-FODMAP, or vegan diet, this recipe allows you to celebrate without worry.

Wishing you a sweet and joyful Tłusty Czwartek!

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Nutritional Information (Per Pączek, Approximate):

• Calories: 120

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 1.5g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g (from fruit and erythritol)

Let me know if you try this recipe! I’d love to hear how your baked pączki turns out. 😊