Dobre Dobre: Baking from Poland and Beyond

The baking traditions highlighted here reflect a region shaped by movement—of people, borders, and ideas. Centered on Poland but extending into areas once influenced by or connected to it—including Germany, Russia, and the Jewish diaspora—this expansive collection offers more than 120 recipes that explore the sweet and savory heritage of Central and Eastern European baking. From historical classics to modern-day creations, it’s a window into a culture both rooted and evolving.

American-born, Berlin-based baker Laurel Kratochvila—owner of Fine Bagels and a James Beard Award finalist—offers detailed instruction for every level of home baker, whether you’re folding horseradish leaves under a rye sourdough boule or piping coffee buttercream into crisp meringue triangles.

Alongside meticulous base doughs, you’ll find imaginative combinations: rugelach filled with rose jam and almonds, twisted Krakow bagels, ginger and rhubarb cream puffs, sour cherry bialys, and a sourdough sunflower loaf with depth and structure.

The book includes recipes from Kratochvila herself and from a selection of pioneering bakers working in Poland and throughout the diaspora. With context that honors both tradition and innovation, Dobre Dobre invites you to explore a region’s rich baking culture—not as a static catalog, but as something alive, expansive, and full of flavor.

Hardcover. Color photographs throughout.