Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts: A Delightful Treat for Every Sweet Tooth
Transform your kitchen into a bakery with these Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts! These light and fluffy donuts are fried to golden perfection, filled with rich whipped cream, and dusted with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a fun weekend project, this recipe will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Let’s dive into the details!
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 (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Shape and Rest the Donuts
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rest for 30 minutes.
3. Fry the Donuts
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to cool completely.
4. Whip the Cream Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spoon the whipped cream into a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip.
5. Fill the Donuts
- Use a knife or skewer to create a small hole on one side of each donut.
- Insert the piping bag into the hole and gently fill each donut with whipped cream until it feels slightly heavy.
6. Dust and Serve
- Lightly dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy their fresh, fluffy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Airy: The donut dough is perfectly tender and fluffy, making every bite a joy.
- Rich and Creamy: The whipped cream filling adds a luxurious touch that balances the sweetness.
- Fun and Easy: Simple steps make this recipe perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced bakers.
Pro Tips for Success
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly fried donuts.
- Don’t Overfill: Be gentle when piping the cream to prevent the donuts from bursting.
- Fresh Is Best: For the best taste and texture, enjoy these donuts the same day they’re made.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, then cool and fill as directed.
2. What other fillings can I use?
Try chocolate ganache, vanilla custard, or fruit jam for variety.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Cream-Filled Donuts with:
- A Freshly Brewed Latte: The creamy coffee complements the sweet donuts.
- Hot Tea: Perfect for an afternoon treat.
- Seasonal Fruits: Add a fresh and tangy element to balance the richness.
Conclusion
These Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts are the perfect combination of soft dough, creamy filling, and a light dusting of sugar. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and experience the joy of homemade donuts that rival any bakery!
