Authentic Khrushchiki Recipe: A Taste of Traditional Polish Sweet Pastries

Ingredients

3 large eggs
3/4 cups of granulated sugar
3 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1 cup of sour cream
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Vegetable oil, for frying
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until they are well combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
Add the sour cream and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Stir in the melted butter until the dough is smooth.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch.
Cut the dough into diamond shapes using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter.
Make a small slit in the center of each diamond and pull one end through the slit to create a twisted shape.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Fry the khrushchiki, a few at a time, until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 1-2 minutes per side.
Drain the fried khrushchiki on paper towels and dust them with confectioners' sugar while they are still warm.

Tools for making

Large Bowl - A bowl large enough to mix the ingredients together.
Separate Bowl - Another bowl for combining the dry ingredients.
Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter - To cut the dough into diamond shapes.
Frying Pan - A large pan for frying the khrushchiki.
Paper Towels - To drain the fried khrushchiki.

Recipe variations

Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for additional flavor.
Try using almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free option.
Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist.
For a savory variation, omit the sugar and vanilla extract and add herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.
Instead of frying, bake the khrushchiki in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown.
For a filling, spread a thin layer of your favorite jam or preserves on the dough before cutting and twisting.
Instead of dusting with confectioners' sugar, drizzle the fried khrushchiki with a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.

Recipe overview

Khrushchiki, a traditional Russian dessert, is a sweet treat that's perfect for any occasion. These pastries, also known as "angel wings," are delightfully crunchy and lightly dusted with confectioners' sugar. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, sugar, flour, and sour cream, Khrushchiki are fried until golden brown, resulting in an indulgent treat with a uniquely light and airy texture. This recipe will guide you through the process, from creating the dough to perfectly frying each piece. The end result is a batch of delectable pastries that are sure to impress. Get ready to experience the joy of making and tasting these delightful sweets!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use alternative flours like whole wheat flour or almond flour, but it may slightly alter the texture and taste of the khrushchiki.
Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
If you don't have sour cream, you can use an equal amount of Greek yogurt as a substitute. It will provide a similar tanginess to the dough.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use other vegetable oils such as canola or sunflower oil for frying the khrushchiki.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and fry it later?
It is best to fry the khrushchiki immediately after preparing the dough. If you need to store the dough briefly, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
How should I store the fried khrushchiki?
Once the khrushchiki have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze the khrushchiki?
Yes, you can freeze the khrushchiki. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating the layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
Whisk - To beat the eggs and sugar together.
Separate Bowl - For combining the dry ingredients.
Spatula - To mix the wet and dry ingredients together.
Rolling Pin - For rolling out the dough.
Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter - To cut the dough into diamond shapes.
Frying Pan - To fry the khrushchiki.
Slotted Spoon - To remove the fried khrushchiki from the oil.
Paper Towels - To drain the excess oil from the fried khrushchiki.
Sifter - To dust the khrushchiki with confectioners' sugar.

Origin stories

Khrushchiki, these intricate twisted pastries dusted with a snowfall of powdered sugar, hold a special place in Polish cuisine. They're traditionally prepared for carnivals and holidays, particularly for Christmas and Easter, where they adorn festive tables and are enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. The name Khrushchiki actually stems from the Polish word "chrust" which means "dry branches" or "brushwood", symbolizing the pastry's crispy texture and intricate shape. In olden times, making Khrushchiki was a family event where everyone would gather around the kitchen table, each member playing their part in the creation of these delightful treats. The secret to the perfect Khrushchiki was said to be in the twisting of the dough, a skill passed down from generation to generation. Even today, in a world of modern conveniences, the preparation of Khrushchiki remains a cherished tradition, keeping alive the spirit of family togetherness and the joy of shared culinary traditions.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.