Traditional Polish Chrusciki (Angel Wings) Recipe

Ingredients

2 egg yolks
1 whole egg
3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
1 tablespoon of brandy or rum
1 teaspoon of white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of butter, melted
1/2 cup of confectioners' sugar for dusting
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks, whole egg and powdered sugar together.
Add the brandy or rum, vinegar, and salt. Continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour, beating well after each addition.
Add the melted butter to the dough and mix until well combined.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic.
Divide the dough into 2 pieces. Roll each piece out to 1/8 inch thickness.
Cut the dough into strips approximately 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. Make a slit in the center of each strip and pull one end through the slit to form a bow.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy bottomed pan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Fry the bows, a few at a time, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Dust the fried bows with confectioners' sugar while still warm.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
Whisk - To beat the eggs and powdered sugar together.
Measuring Spoons - To measure the vinegar, salt, and other small quantities accurately.
Measuring Cups - To measure the flour, butter, and other larger quantities accurately.
Rolling Pin - To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Knife or Pastry Cutter - To cut the dough into strips.
Deep Fryer or Heavy Bottomed Pan - To fry the chrusciki until golden brown.
Paper Towels - To drain the fried chrusciki.

Recipe variations

Instead of using all-purpose flour, you can try using cake flour for a lighter texture.
For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
To add a hint of citrus flavor, you can add grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.
If you prefer a different type of alcohol, you can substitute the brandy or rum with a liqueur of your choice, such as Grand Marnier or Amaretto.
For a savory twist, you can sprinkle the fried chrusciki with grated Parmesan cheese or a mixture of garlic powder and paprika.
If you prefer a different shape, you can twist the dough into spirals or knots instead of bows.
For a chocolatey variation, you can dip the fried chrusciki in melted chocolate or drizzle them with a chocolate glaze.
To make a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute, such as mashed bananas or applesauce.
If you want a nutty flavor, you can add a small amount of almond extract or finely chopped nuts to the dough.
For a healthier option, you can bake the chrusciki instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until they are golden brown.

Recipe overview

Chrusciki, also known as Polish Angel Wings, is a beloved sweet treat from Eastern Europe that has a unique and intriguing shape. This traditional Polish recipe is often made during the holiday season, but it's delightful anytime of the year. The dough is deep-fried to create a light, crispy texture and then dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. These pastries are not only delicious, but also fun to make and appealing to the eye. Expect to enjoy a hands-on baking experience with a tasty payoff. This recipe will guide you through creating your own Chrusciki at home, suitable even for beginners. Enjoy the process and the scrumptious results!

Common questions

Can I substitute the brandy or rum? Yes, you can substitute the brandy or rum with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying? Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or any other oil suitable for deep frying.
How do I store the chrusciki? Store the chrusciki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze the chrusciki? Yes, you can freeze the chrusciki. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I do with leftover powdered sugar? You can use leftover powdered sugar for dusting other desserts, making icing or frosting, or adding a sweet touch to hot beverages.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl – A large bowl to mix the dough ingredients together.
Whisk – Used to beat the eggs and powdered sugar until well combined.
Measuring Spoons – To measure the precise amount of vinegar, salt, and other ingredients.
Rolling Pin – Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Knife or Pizza Cutter – Used to cut the dough into strips.
Deep Fryer or Heavy Bottomed Pan – For frying the chrusciki until golden brown.
Slotted Spoon or Tongs – Used to carefully remove the fried chrusciki from the hot oil.
Paper Towels – To drain the excess oil from the fried chrusciki.
Sifter or Fine-Mesh Sieve – For dusting the chrusciki with confectioners' sugar.
Serving Platter or Plate – To present the chrusciki for serving.

Origin stories

Chrusciki, also known as Angel Wings, are a beloved pastry in Poland and throughout Eastern Europe. They have a rich history, traditionally made for festive occasions such as Fat Tuesday and Christmas. The name Chrusciki translates to "brushwood" in English, referencing the shape of the dough which resembles twigs or brushwood. Although they are deep fried like many other treats of Mardi Gras or Carnival season, Chrusciki are unique because they are light and airy, almost like a puff pastry. Despite being a dessert, they carry a pinch of salt and are often flavored with a splash of rum or brandy, giving them a complex and intriguing flavor profile that has captivated people for generations.

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.