Poland: Chrusciki

Loosely translated, Chrusciki means “cookie” in Polish. They are also commonly referred to as "Angels’ Wings", although North Americans also refer to them as "Bow Ties". They are also known as Chiacchiere in Italy. These sugar-dusted sweets are associated with the pre-Lenten carnival in Poland. In the United States, they are generally served at Polish-American weddings and other festivities.

Chrusciki

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbs sugar
3 large egg yolks
3 tbs sour cream
1 tbs vodka or whiskey
Vegetable oil
2-2/3 cups powdered sugar

Place flour and sugar in medium bowl; stir to combine. Make well in center of flour mixture; add egg yolks, sour cream and vodka. Stir with spoon until soft dough forms.

Place dough on lightly floured surface; knead gently until dough is smooth. Form dough into 2 discs; wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, 30 minutes or overnight.

Working with 1 disc at a time, unwrap dough and place on lightly floured surface. Roll out dough with lightly floured rolling pin to 1/8-inch-thick (12X10-inch) rectangle. Cut dough lengthwise in half; cut each half into 12 strips.

Make 1-inch vertical slit down center of each strip. Insert one end of strip through cut to form twist; repeat with remaining strips.

Heat oil in large saucepan to 375°F. Place 6 strips at a time into hot oil. Fry about 1 minute or until golden brown, turning cookies once with slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels.

Place 1/3 cup powdered sugar in small brown paper bag. Add 6 warm cookies at a time; close bag and shake until cookies are coated with sugar. Repeat with additional sugar and remaining cookies. Cookies are best when served immediately, but can be stored in airtight container 1 day.