Grandma’s Polish Cookies

There are so many different ways to use cookies to celebrate the holidays, and our favorite Polish cookies are one of them. Grandma’s cookies always seemed to taste better than anyone else’s, and we continue to make her recipe year after year. These cookies are often described as looking like angel’s wings, and we can see why. These beautiful twists of sweetened dough, fried and dusted with powdered sugar, do have a wing-like appearance. And it’s a fun way to put a sweet twist (literally!) on a holiday cookie.

Who can resist dough that’s deep fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar? The answer is no one! These cookies aren’t much more than that, dough and sugar but there’s something so special about this humble little treat. We’ve prepared a dough, cut it into slices, then twist them into a bow-like shape that many describe as looking like wings, and given how quickly these disappear, it’s like they’re flying right off the plate! Making these cookies is always a process filled with wonderful memories and a few stories shared about family get-togethers and good times. As good as these cookies are, the memories and stories are almost better.

Certain sweet treats are often associated with holidays or celebrations, and these cookies definitely fall into this category. They’re not quite a cookie in the traditional sense, but they are made with dough and sweetened with sugar, and so we don’t mind that the category seems to loosely fit this delightful dessert. Grandma’s Polish cookies are one of those beloved family recipes that we look forward to making year after year, for both the sweet memories and the sweet treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grandma’s Polish Cookies are a delightful treat that combines simplicity and nostalgia. You’ll love this recipe for its ease of preparation and the way it brings family and friends together. The cookies are light, crispy, and sweet, making them perfect for any holiday gathering.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rolling pin
• Electric skillet or deep frying pan
• Paper towels

Ingredients

• 4 cups flour
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 8 oz evaporated milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cubed butter until the mixture is crumbly.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until foamy. Add the evaporated milk and vanilla extract, then mix this egg mixture into the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 30 seconds, then divide it into four even sections.
4. Roll each section into a rectangle shape, about ¼-inch thick. Cut each rectangle into four 1 ½-inch strips.
5. Cut a 2-inch slit lengthwise down the middle of each strip. Draw one of the ends through the slit to create a bow shape.
6. Heat 1-2 inches of oil in an electric skillet or deep frying pan. Fry the strips of dough in small batches until golden brown.
7. Transfer the fried strips to a plate lined with paper towels. Dust generously with powdered sugar. Repeat until all of the dough has been fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter is cold to achieve the perfect crumbly texture in the dough.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; fry in small batches for the best results.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough to avoid the cookies absorbing too much oil.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a variation, try adding a touch of cinnamon to the powdered sugar for a spiced twist. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra indulgence.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Grandma’s Polish Cookies is approximately:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent drying out.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I bake these instead of frying?
While traditional Polish cookies are fried, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown for a slightly healthier version.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Polish Cookies are a delightful treat that’s sure to bring joy to any gathering. We invite you to try making these cookies and experience the magic of creating something delicious and nostalgic. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any delightful variations you come up with!