Baked Paczki (Polish Doughnuts) Recipe

Ingredients (12)

• 2 (0.25-ounce) packets active dry yeast (4 1/2 teaspoons)
• 1 1/2 cups warm milk, no warmer than 110 F
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 ounces (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 3 large egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon brandy, or rum
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 1/2 to 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, optional
• Granulated sugar, or confectioners' sugar, optional
• Fruit paste, or jam, for filling, optional