Pampukhy are one of the staple dishes of the Ukrainian Christmas table. They are prepared for both Christmas Eve and the Feast of St. Stephen (New Year’s Eve in the Julian calendar tradition). Traditionally, they are fried in hot oil and dusted with powdered sugar or served with thick jam.
Pampukhy have always symbolized coziness, care, and family warmth. In many regions of Ukraine, it is customary to serve them with uzvar, a compote made from dried fruits such as apples, plums, or pears. Historically, pampukhy were an integral part of celebrations, accompanying rituals, caroling, and fortune-telling games, creating an atmosphere of festivity and family unity. Traditional carols (kolyadky) were often sung while preparing and serving pampukhy, adding musical cheer and reinforcing the sense of community and shared celebration.
These treats are traditionally made from yeast dough and can be filled according to taste. The most traditional filling for pampukhy is rose petal jam, as confirmed by folk recipes and ethnographic records. However, in different regions of Ukraine, other fruit or berry preserves were also used historically — including cherry, plum, quince, and pear. Using a thick jam (such as from crushed rose petals) ensured that the filling would not spread during frying, which was important for traditional preparation.
Pampukhy symbolize abundance, the warmth of the family circle, and the festive spirit that accompanies Christmas celebrations. The preparation of pampukhy is not only culinary but also a cultural ritual, reflecting centuries-old customs, regional variations, and the joy of gathering loved ones around the table.
Pampukhy Recipe
Ingredients:
- ½ liter milk
- 100 g fresh yeast
- 200 g sugar
- Vanilla sugar or vanilla extract
- 10 eggs
- 200 g unsalted butter
- 10 g salt
- 1 kg flour + extra for shaping
- Jam (rose petal jam or another thick fruit preserve)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Warm the milk. Dissolve the yeast in it and add a tablespoon of sugar and flour.
- Melt the butter.
- Beat the egg yolks with the remaining sugar and vanilla. Separately, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Add the butter, yolks, and whites to the yeast mixture and mix gently.
- Add the sifted flour and salt, kneading the dough for 15 minutes.
- Leave the dough to rise in a warm place under a cloth. When it has doubled in size, punch it down and let it rise again.
- Roll out the dough and cut into individual pampukhy. If using a filling, place the jam in the center, form balls, and leave them to rise seam-side down.
- Heat oil in a deep pot. Fry the pampukhy until golden brown, turning them carefully.
- Place on paper towels to absorb excess oil, and before serving, dust with powdered sugar.
Pampukhy are more than just a festive treat—they are a symbol of Ukrainian Christmas traditions, family togetherness, and cultural heritage. Preparing and sharing pampukhy connects generations, brings warmth to the holiday season, and preserves a cherished culinary legacy. Whether filled with rose petal jam, fruit preserves, or enjoyed plain, pampukhy remain a sweet reminder of the joy, abundance, and communal spirit that define Ukrainian Christmas celebrations.
