We came back from a winter break in Poland a couple of days ago. The trip lacked in snow, but was rich in lots of great food. My Mum is a very accomplished home cook, she always feeds us well, if maybe a tad too much. I had an enormous appetite there, back to normal now, otherwise my arse will double in size.

There is a patisserie in Klodzko, called Maslanka, from the name of its founder, a famous place in the city. When they’re open, you walk down Koscielna street and all you smell is pure cake heaven. We visited twice. Once, Mum got some baked cheesecake (in Poland a cheesecake must be baked, the cold version is a dessert, not a cake by any means), described by the shop assistant in every detail- I loved that! So much passion and pride about the product they sell. What blew me away was Napoleonka. A rich, creamy cake on puff pastry that was so good I’m considering treating myself for my birthday tomorrow. Having one piece is a laugh, it’s incredibly moreish.

Also, I tried a kapusniaczek, a small piece of puff pastry filled with a mixture of soured cabbage and mushrooms, the kind of stuffing you’d find in good, homemade pierogi in Poland in winter. We made them at home later, lovely and light.

Their doughnuts were light and made with great dough, a little shy on jam though, no photo, not good enough.

Will be returning to Maslanka’s and will be baking Napoleonka. Very soon. 🙂