These sweet piroshky, or “piroshki”, are deep-fried and filled with a luscious poppy seed filling. A true Russian classic!

Sweet piroshky cut open on a plate

These Russian sweet piroshky (also commonly spelled “piroshki”) transport me right back to childhood. In primary school, a friend of mine brought them to class for breakfast and let me have a bite. I was immediately infatuated with the crunchy poppy seed filling! I begged my mom to call her mom for the recipe and the rest is history.

To make this recipe, you’re going to have to whip up a batch of poppy seed filling to stuff the piroshky with. If you’ve never tried sweet poppy seed filling before, it’s to die for. Commonly used in Slavic baking, it’s crunchy, creamy, and the perfect complement to the crispy, deep-fried dough.

Ingredients for sweet piroshky

What are Piroshky?

Piroshky, or “piroshki”, are popular Slavic dumplings that can be either baked or fried and stuffed with an assortment of sweet and savory fillings. In Russia and Ukraine, they are practically a way of life. You’ll find them served everywhere from fancy restaurants, street stalls, and gas stations. Below, find an overview of the flavor, texture, and cooking time for this sweet, Russian-style piroshky.

  • Flavor: Lightly sweet, sour cream-infused dough is contrasted with the sweet nuttiness of the poppy seed filling.
  • Texture: The texture consists of pillow-soft fried dough stuffed with crunchy and creamy poppy seed filling.
  • Time: From prep to table, this recipe takes about 4 hours to make.
Cut sweet piroshky with poppy seeds

How to Make Russian Sweet Piroshky

Making these sweet piroshky only requires a handful of ingredients. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself having fun stuffing and frying them! Below, find a quick hitter overview of the recipe before you dive in.

  • Activate the Yeast: Whisk together warm milk, yeast, and sugar and set aside for 10 minutes.
  • Make the Wet Ingredients: Mix eggs with milk sugar, salt, oil, vanilla, and sour cream. Next, mix in the yeast mixture and one cup of flour. Cover with a towel and set aside in a warm place for about an hour.
  • Finish the Dough: In thirds, mix in the remaining flour. Knead the dough until it turns elastic. Set aside to rise for an hour at room temperature.
  • Roll and Stuff the Dough: With oiled hands, roll even-sized dough balls about the size of the palm of your hand. Then, flatten each dough ball with your fingers and fill it with poppy seed filling. Fold over the sides and pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.
  • Deep Fry the Piroshky: Over medium/low heat, fill a deep skillet with canola oil. Drop the dough balls into the oil in batches. Fry until golden brown, flipping them every now and again with a fork. Once finished frying, place piroshky on a plate lined with paper towels. Serve and enjoy!

Stand Mixer Hack: You can always make the dough by hand, but a stand mixer will make the process go so much faster.

Tips for Making the Best Russian Sweet Piroshky

Below, find a collection of tips and tricks to help you make the best Russian sweet piroshky on the planet.

  • Oil your hands to make it easier to work with the dough. Lightly oil your hands as you shape and fill the piroshky to prevent it from sticking. However, be mindful not to go too crazy with the oil, as it might make the dough too slick to seal.
  • Roll the piroshky into similar-sized balls for even-cooking. A good general rule of thumb for measurement is about the size of the palm of your hand.
  • Swap out poppyseed filling for any other sweet filling. If you’re not a poppy seed fan, substitute the filling for jam, Nutella, or sweetened farmer’s cheese.
A plate with piroshky, one is cut open

Storing Piroshky

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover piroshky in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep fresh for up to a week.
  • Freezer: Freeze leftover piroshki by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, pop the entire baking sheet into the freezer. Once completely frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe plastic bag. Keep on hand for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tip: Reheat frozen piroshky in the oven or microwave until warmed through, or pop them in an air fryer for a couple of minutes until crispy.

FAQ

What’s the difference between pierogi and piroshky?

The difference between pierogi and piroshky lies within the dough. Pierogi tend to come boiled with a gummier dough, while piroshky come baked or deep-fried. Both can be filled with an assortment of sweet and savory fillings.

What does piroshky translate to in English?

In English, piroshky means a “small pie”.

What ethnicity is piroshky?

Piroshky originated from Russia. However, they are also eaten in their many different forms all throughout Eastern Europe.

Can I freeze piroshky?

Yes, you can freeze piroshky. To do so, place piroshky on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, pop the entire baking sheet into the freezer. Once completely frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe plastic bag. Keep on hand for up to 3 months.

Other Pastries to Try

About Author

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Natalya Drozhzhin

Natalya founded Momsdish to demonstrate that placing a homemade meal on the table is not hard at all. Natalya makes cooking easier and approachable, by simplifying the ingredients, while still producing the same great taste.