An obwarzanek is a Polish ring-shaped bread traditionally boiled and baked before being topped with seeds or salt.
The dough is formed into long strands that are twisted together and joined into a ring. Before baking, the ring is briefly boiled or blanched. This step gives the finished bread its characteristic chewy crumb and slightly glossy crust. Poppy seeds, sesame seeds, salt, or cheese may be used as toppings.
Obwarzanek krakowski is especially associated with Kraków, where it has been sold by street vendors for centuries. The product has protected geographical indication status in the European Union, reflecting its regional identity and traditional production.
It is related to bagels and pretzels because all involve cooking dough before or during baking, but the recipes and shapes differ. An obwarzanek is generally larger and more braided-looking than many standard bagels.