Strawberry Cream-Filled Doughnuts: A Sweet and Fluffy Delight

Discover the ultimate treat with these Strawberry Cream-Filled Doughnuts. Soft, fluffy doughnuts filled with fresh strawberries, vanilla cream, and topped with powdered sugar are perfect for a breakfast indulgence or an afternoon pick-me-up. Here’s how to make them at home!

Ingredients

For the Doughnuts:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
• 1/4 cup water, warm
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix the warm milk, water, eggs, and melted butter into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Shape and Fry the Doughnuts

1. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut into circles using a 3-inch cutter.
2. Second Rise: Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
3. Fry the Doughnuts: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

3. Prepare the Fillings

1. Make the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag.
2. Prepare the Strawberries: Toss the diced strawberries with granulated sugar and let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.

4. Assemble the Doughnuts

1. Cut and Fill: Slice each doughnut in half horizontally (but not completely through).
2. Layer the Fillings: Spread a layer of diced strawberries on the bottom half, followed by a generous swirl of vanilla cream. Close the doughnut.
3. Dust with Sugar: Lightly dust the tops with powdered sugar.

Tips for Success

• Perfect Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for evenly cooked doughnuts.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smooth dough.
• Chill the Cream Bowl: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for easier whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love These Doughnuts

These Strawberry Cream-Filled Doughnuts are light, airy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh strawberries, velvety cream, and fluffy dough is simply irresistible.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store filled doughnuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Unfilled doughnuts can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill before serving.

Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s Doughnuts: Replace the vanilla cream with chocolate ganache or Nutella.
• Berry Medley: Use a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries for the filling.
• Citrus Twist: Add a touch of orange or lemon zest to the cream for a refreshing flavor.

These Strawberry Cream-Filled Doughnuts are a delightful treat for any occasion. Their light texture and luscious filling will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try this recipe today and enjoy the sweet taste of homemade goodness!