On Fat Tuesday, thousands of Clevelanders will line up at local bakeries for some delicious paczki. Pronounced punch-key, this Polish pastry features a variety of fillings from custard to strawberry jam. Here are four local spots to grab paczki in 2024:
Jack Frost Donuts
The bakers at Jack Frost Donuts have made every batch from scratch since 1937. This Old Brooklyn staple has dozens of loyal customers. They come to enjoy the original donuts they had as children or today’s newest flavors.
On Fat Tuesday, Jack Frost will serve hundreds of its famous paczki. Unique choices include buckeye, banana split, and strawberry cheesecake. More traditional fillings, such as raspberry and cream, will also be available.
Breads and Beyond Bakery
Nestled in Parma’s Ukrainian Village, Breads and Beyond Bakery is where Bob Uhlir shows off his baking skills. After graduating from Brecksville High School in 1978, he attended the Culinary Institute of America. Bob worked as a pastry chef at Stouffer’s Inn on the Square before opening the bakery. For over 20 years, he and his team have filled the cases with a variety of delectable treats, and there's always something delicious to try.
Paczki offerings include blueberry, apricot, and chocolate crème. Best of all, these and the other flavors can be ordered online for easy pickup.
Bigmouth Donut Company
After sampling some scratch-made donuts while visiting his daughter in Chicago, Kelly Brewer decided to open his own shop. He returned home to Ohio and eventually created the Bigmouth Donut Company with his wife despite having no experience in the culinary industry.
On Fat Tuesday, the shop is serving six delicious flavors. Choices include maple custard, lemon curd, and apple chutney. They can be purchased individually or in a boxed dozen featuring two of every flavor. Advanced orders are highly recommended.
Edwins Too
Don’t miss the paczki party at Edwins Too. The fun starts at 5:00 p.m. on February 13th and will come to life with a polka band, dancing, and a delicious feast featuring all your Polish favorites. Offerings include kielbasa, sauerkraut, pierogies, and of course, paczki. Can’t make the party? Place an online order for your favorite paczki flavors.