Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts: A Sweet Treat to Savor

Discover the joy of making Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts right in your kitchen! These fluffy, golden-brown donuts are filled with a rich, creamy filling and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar for the perfect touch. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results every time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Shape and Fry the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Place the donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rest for 30 minutes.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Transfer to a wire rack lined with paper towels to cool.

3. Prepare the Cream Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Transfer the cream filling into a piping bag fitted with a small round or star tip.

4. Fill the Donuts

1. Use a knife or skewer to make a small hole in the side of each donut.
2. Insert the piping bag into the hole and fill each donut with the whipped cream filling until it feels slightly heavy.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the soft, creamy delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy: The perfect texture that melts in your mouth.
• Rich Cream Filling: The sweet whipped cream adds a luxurious touch to every bite.
• Fun to Make: A rewarding baking project that’s perfect for sharing.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overheat the Oil: Keep the temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) to ensure evenly fried donuts.
2. Whip the Cream Properly: For a stable filling, whip the cream until it holds stiff peaks but be careful not to overwhip.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality cream make all the difference in flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! Custard, chocolate ganache, or jam are great alternatives to the whipped cream filling.

2. How do I store leftover donuts?
Store filled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best taste, serve fresh.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, then fill them as directed. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Cream-Filled Donuts with:

• A Cup of Coffee or Tea: Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
• Hot Chocolate: A cozy pairing for cold weather.
• Fresh Berries: Add a touch of freshness to balance the sweetness.

Conclusion

These Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts are the ultimate indulgence, combining fluffy dough, sweet cream, and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Try it today and enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own delicious donuts at home!