The season of Lent is just around the corner, which means it’s time for a time-honored tradition for many Milwaukeeans — Paczki Day! And no, these are not just your standard jelly doughnut. Anyone who has ever experienced a Paczki in Milwaukee will tell you it’s become a special treat they look forward to all year long!
How exactly do you say "Paczki?"
Paz-key, Pooch-key, Pass-kee — we may not agree on a way to say it, but we can all agree that Paczki Day is an AWESOME tradition.
History of Paczki in Milwaukee
Polish immigrants began coming to Milwaukee in the 1850s, and by 1905 were the second-largest ethnic group in our fair city. Paczki originally came over with them, and Paczki day is now a significant presence in Milwaukee culture.
Paczki Day is always celebrated on Fat Tuesday. Legend says it began as a way to use up the ingredients that were traditionally forbidden during Lent and wound up leading to the creation of this beloved treat that causes a mad rush at bakeries all over the city. If you need to get your Paczki fix, call ahead and order early to make sure you don’t miss out!
Places to Dig In to the Best Paczki in Milwaukee
7328 W. Greenfield Ave., Milwaukee; (414) 482-1288
In addition to some of the most legendary Paczki in the Milwaukee area, Aggie’s offers king cake AND Mardi Gras cookies. Yum!
6901 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa; (414) 258-5282
I can’t guarantee their supply will last past the morning, so you may want to order ahead online but they do have pizza if you’re also looking for a dinner option!
340 High Street, Brookfield, (262) 505-6560
Featuring Paczki flavors in 6-packs such as raspberry, bavarian cream, and blueberry, this newcomer to the Paczki scene isn’t playing around. They will also have King Cakes, Mardi Gras Cookies, and more!
5132 W. Lincoln Ave., West Allis; (414) 543-7000
My husband and I love their crullers and grab them from Sendiks regularly. I can’t wait to try their Paczki!
316 N. Milwaukee St., Third Ward; (414) 308-1616
Gluten-Friendly and Vegan options available in their regular donuts, so be sure to pick up a few of those, too. Your friends and colleagues with dietary restrictions will thank you!
4745 S Packard Ave, Cudahy; (414) 940-0725
Make sure you pre-order your Paczki from Jen’s Sweet Treats! They will be available on Fat Tuesday. Flavors include: Raspberry, Lemon, Bavarian, Whipped Cream and Prune. $12 per dozen!
Locations in Brookfield, Greendale, and the South Side.
Expect a line around the block because National Bakery is known far and wide as some of the absolute BEST Paczki in Milwaukee!
6941 S. 68th St, Franklin; (414) 529-2140
You can order online!
1501 Paramount Dr., Unit C, Waukesha; (262) 446-2253
As Wisconsin as Paczki Day is, Sweet Perfections takes it a step further with their Boozy Paczki. Vodka shooter, Bailey’s Cherry Bombshell, Spiced Bananas Foster, Mudslide, and of COURSE, Brandy Old Fashioned.
Wherever you decide to go, I recommend going EARLY and leaving extra time to allow for the line. If all else fails, or you’re in a rush, most local grocery stores have four-packs you can grab. Enjoy!
