Paczki: The Beloved Polish Donut Tradition for Fat Tuesday

Paczki Day 2026!

Fat Tuesday is one of the sweetest days of the year. Right before the season of Lent begins, bakeries everywhere fill their cases with rich, indulgent treats meant to celebrate, savor, and enjoy one last delicious “splurge.” King Cakes are a popular Carnival treat, but one of the most treasured traditional pastries of the day is the famous Polish Paczki donut.

At Cinotti’s Bakery, we’re proud to continue this old-world tradition with our own assortment of freshly made paczki, available for Fat Tuesday pickup at both our Jacksonville Beach and Downtown Jacksonville locations.

So… what exactly is a paczki, and why does everyone go crazy for them this time of year? Let’s dig in!

A Brief History of Paczki Day

Paczki (pronounced poonch-key) originated in Poland centuries ago as a way to use up rich ingredients like sugar, eggs, butter, and lard before the fasting season of Lent began.

Just like many Fat Tuesday traditions around the world, paczki was created out of celebration and practicality. It was a final chance to enjoy something decadent before Ash Wednesday marks the start of simpler living.

In fact, Paczki are traditionally eaten on Fat Tuesday specifically because they represent abundance, joy, and the sweetness of gathering together before Lent begins.

What Makes a Paczki Different from a Regular Donut?

A paczki is not your average donut.

These Polish treats are typically richer, softer, and more filled than standard donuts. They’re made with enriched dough, fried to golden perfection, and stuffed generously with flavorful fillings. Some are glazed, some are rolled in sugar, and others are topped with icing that perfectly complements what’s inside.

Cinotti’s Paczki: A Jacksonville Fat Tuesday Favorite

Here at Cinotti’s Bakery, paczki season is a BIG deal. Every year, we offer a bevy of flavor options to suit your sweet tooth, and this year is no exception.

Our paczki day flavors will include favorites like:

• Strawberry
• Strawberry Cream Cheese
• Lemon Cream Cheese
• Apricot
• Blueberry
• Cherry
• Classic Cream Cheese
• And more!

These donuts are soft, rich, and filled generously, made from scratch with the same care and tradition our family bakery has been known for since 1936.

Order Ahead for Fat Tuesday Pickup

Fat Tuesday comes quickly, and paczki are one of our most popular seasonal items. We highly recommend ordering early, so you don’t miss out!

Paczki will be available for order and pickup at:

Jacksonville Beach Location
Downtown Jacksonville (JTA LaVilla) Location

You can order ahead and pick up from either location through our online ordering system.

Don’t Miss Out on This Sweet Tradition!

Fat Tuesday only happens once a year, and paczki are one of those special treats that make the season feel truly festive. Whether you grew up eating them, discovered them as a new tradition, or just love a donut filled with something delicious, this is your moment.

So grab a box for the office, surprise your family, or treat yourself the way tradition intended.

Call or stop in to place your order and let Cinotti’s Bakery make your Fat Tuesday extra sweet with our handcrafted paczki.

Because if you’re going to celebrate, you might as well do it with a donut that’s been loved for generations.

Order your paczki today! We’ll see you on Fat Tuesday!