Pampushky are small, soft, and fluffy Ukrainian buns that can be enjoyed both savory (with garlic) or sweet (with sugar or jam). They are traditionally baked, but can also be fried. This recipe is for baked pampushky.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- For Savory Pampushky (Garlic Topping):
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
- For Sweet Pampushky (Sugar Topping):
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or powdered sugar)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the foamy yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer for 5 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Pampushky: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into small, equal-sized pieces (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter). Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- Second Rise: Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pampushky for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare Savory Topping (Garlic): While the pampushky are baking, mix minced garlic, vegetable oil, and salt in a small bowl.
- Prepare Sweet Topping (Sugar): Melt butter in a small bowl.
- Finish and Serve:
- For Savory: As soon as the pampushky come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic oil mixture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
- For Sweet: Brush the warm pampushky with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar.
- Serve: Serve the pampushky warm.
Tips and Variations:
- Fried Pampushky: Instead of baking, you can fry the shaped dough balls in vegetable oil over medium heat until golden brown on all sides.
- Stuffing: You can stuff the pampushky with fillings like mashed potatoes, cheese, or meat before baking.
- Glaze: For sweet pampushky, you can drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over them.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs for the savory version, such as rosemary or thyme.
Enjoy your delicious Ukrainian Pampushky!