Polish Fat Thursday

Poland is a country rich in traditions and celebrations, and one of the most delightful customs occurs just before the beginning of Lent—Polish Fat Thursday, or Tłusty Czwartek (pronounced twoosty chvartek). This annual event is a beloved occasion where indulgence, sweets, and joy take center stage as people bid farewell to the last day of excess before the season of fasting and self-discipline.

Fat Thursday, celebrated on the final Thursday before Ash Wednesday, marks the beginning of the pre-Lenten period in Poland. The day serves as an opportunity for people to enjoy foods that will be restricted during the more austere days of Lent. The idea is simple: indulge before the fasting begins. And what better way to do that than with delicious, sweet treats?

The star of the day is the pączek (plural: pączki), a type of donut that is far from ordinary. These deep-fried, round pastries are filled with rich fruit preserves (like rose petal jam or plum jam), custards, or even chocolate. They are then coated with powdered sugar or icing, making them a delectable treat that’s hard to resist. In fact, it’s said that on this day, Poles consume around 100 million pączki throughout the country! That’s a lot of donuts!

Another very popular treat consumed on or around Fat Thursday are faworki, also know as chrust or chruściki.  Made of thin sweet dough, twisted in a signature twist, deep-fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar was made about once a year in my family home by my grandma, babcia Stasia. I loved helping by making twists our of the dough before frying. Oh, what a pleasure. 

Where does Polish Fat Thursday come from?

The tradition of Tłusty Czwartek dates back to the 18th century, and it’s rooted in both religious and practical purposes. Before Lent, Catholics were expected to fast and give up many rich foods. Fat Thursday served as the last day to indulge in these foods, using up ingredients like butter, sugar, and eggs that would otherwise go unused during the period of fasting.

Though the original intent was practical, the day soon evolved into a celebration of food and joy. Over the years, the consumption of pączki became a staple of the event, and it remains the highlight of the day. Families, friends, and colleagues often gather together to share these delicious treats, making Fat Thursday a festive occasion that is much anticipated each year. Polish Fat Thursday. 

Bakeries go into overdrive the night before this unofficial holiday. Everyone can hardly wait for the day when you are expected to eat as much as you want, no judgements passed.

There has not been a year when I would not have indulged in this tradition. Frankly, its unavoidable. Employers treat their employees to varieties of these sweet pastries, and everyone is expected to eat at least a couple. Jelly or custard filled, glazed or powder sugar-coated, everyone can find their favorite.

Parents bring home an assortment of the sweet pastries and kids, extra excited for this tradition are often, allowed to skip dinner.

If you ever have the chance to visit Poland during Tłusty Czwartek, don’t miss out on the experience! Not only is it a delicious culinary adventure, but it’s also a chance to experience Polish culture and the warmth of Polish hospitality. Whether you’re nibbling on a perfectly glazed pączek or sipping a coffee with friends, Fat Thursday is a celebration of joy, indulgence, and tradition.

Even if you can’t make it to Poland, you can still enjoy this sweet tradition at home by trying your hand at making your own pączki or faworki. While it might not be the same as joining in the celebrations in Poland, it’s a fun and tasty way to experience the spirit of Fat Thursday and celebrate the traditions with your family, no matter where you are in the world. My recipes for both are lined below. 

Until then, donuts for everyone!

My recipe for “pączki” donuts here. 

My recipe for “chrust” angel wings here. 

Will you be making yours this year? Leave me a comment below.

From Poland with love,

Anna

Polish Fat Thursday Polish Fat Thursday Polish Fat Thursday