Grandma’s Polish Cookies

Indulging in delicious cookies is one of the best ways to savor the holiday season. And when it comes to Polish cookies, nothing compares to Grandma’s recipe. These treats hold a special place in our hearts and have been passed down through generations. With their enticing appearance resembling angel’s wings, these twisted, sugary delights bring a unique and delightful twist to any holiday cookie collection.

Who can resist the allure of deep-fried dough coated in a delicate sprinkling of powdered sugar? Definitely not us! These cookies are simple yet so extraordinary. We start by preparing a dough, which is then sliced and twisted into beautiful bow-like shapes that genuinely resemble wings. The way these cookies vanish from the plate is simply magical! Baking these cookies brings back cherished memories and prompts storytelling about family gatherings and joyous times. The taste of these cookies is delightful, but the memories and stories they hold are even more precious.

Certain sweet treats have become synonymous with holidays and celebrations, and these Polish cookies undoubtedly belong to that category. They may not fit the traditional cookie mold exactly, but they do feature a dough base sweetened with sugar. We happily embrace their unique characteristics because they are part of our beloved family traditions, eagerly anticipated year after year. These cookies symbolize both the sweetness of the treats and the sweetness of the memories they create.

Grandma’s Polish Cookies Recipe

Makes 3 dozen cookies | Preparation time: 40 minutes

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
  • Oil for frying
  • Powdered sugar
Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until foamy. Add evaporated milk and vanilla extract. Combine the egg mixture with the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 30 seconds, then divide it into four equal sections.
  4. Roll each section into a rectangular shape, approximately ¼-inch thick. Cut the dough into four 1½-inch strips.
  5. Make a 2-inch slit lengthwise down the middle of each strip. Pull one end of the strip through the slit to create the charming 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 they turn a beautiful golden brown.
  7. Transfer the fried strips to a plate lined with a paper towel. Generously dust them with powdered sugar. Repeat these steps until all the dough has been fried and adorned with powdered sugar.

Enjoy these mouthwatering Polish cookies, handed down through generations, and let the sweet memories and delicious flavors transport you to a place of warmth and joy. This recipe is adapted from Taste of Home, ensuring that every cookie brings love and delight to your holiday celebrations.