UPDATE: Sister Rose Bartnicki, 87, has just concluded a series of highly anticipated kolaczki-making classes at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish in Spring Township, attracting enthusiastic participants eager to learn her traditional Polish cookie recipe. This unique culinary experience, held in the convent kitchen, has quickly become a sensation among parishioners, showcasing the importance of cultural heritage during the holiday season.
Just this past week, Sister Bartnicki shared her time-tested techniques with small groups of women, many of whom have long admired her impressive cookie-making skills. The kolaczki, a flaky, filled pastry beloved in Polish-American households, are typically enjoyed from Thanksgiving through Easter. Participants were eager to master the art of these cookies, which are a staple of holiday celebrations.
The classes featured hands-on instruction, with Sister Bartnicki demonstrating crucial steps in the pastry-making process. “It takes time and patience,” she emphasized, highlighting the importance of rolling the dough to less than one-quarter inch thick. Many attendees had previously attempted to make kolaczki with varying success, but Sister Bartnicki’s guidance has proven invaluable.
Using her simple recipe, which avoids leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda, Sister Bartnicki ensured that each participant learned the proper techniques. The women learned how to cut the dough into strips, fill them with cream cheese or other fillings, and expertly pinch them closed. “You can’t rush it. It all depends on how you roll the dough,” Bartnicki advised, stressing the importance of careful preparation.
The excitement in the room was palpable as participants shared laughter and stories while crafting their cookies. “Both groups really enjoyed it,” Sister Bartnicki remarked, reflecting on the joy and camaraderie that filled the kitchen. “They had a marvelous time.”
With the holidays fast approaching, this resurgence of traditional cookie-making serves not just as a culinary lesson but as a means of preserving cultural identity and creating lasting memories. Sister Bartnicki’s passion for sharing her heritage has sparked a renewed interest in Polish baking within the community.
As the cookie-making classes wrap up, the impact of Sister Bartnicki’s teachings will undoubtedly linger. Those who attended are now equipped with the skills to recreate these cherished treats in their own homes, ensuring that the tradition continues for future generations.
Stay tuned for more updates on community events and culinary workshops at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish as they celebrate and share their cultural heritage.
