Irresistible Homemade Cream Donuts: A Sweet Treat for All Ages
Dive into the world of homemade baking with these Irresistible Cream Donuts! Soft, fluffy, and filled with a rich whipped cream, these donuts are a delight for any occasion. Topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they’re perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or dessert. Let’s walk through the simple steps to make these bakery-quality donuts at home.
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 cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Shape and Rest the Donuts
- Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Use a round cutter (approximately 3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
- Place the dough circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let them rest for 30 minutes.
3. Fry the Donuts
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts in batches, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the donuts to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain and cool completely.
4. Make the Whipped 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 small round or star tip.
5. Fill the Donuts
- Use a skewer or knife to poke a small hole in the side of each donut.
- Insert the piping bag into the hole and fill each donut with whipped cream until it feels slightly heavy.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Soft and Fluffy: The dough is perfectly light and airy, making every bite delightful.
- Rich Filling: The sweet whipped cream adds a luxurious touch to these donuts.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
Pro Tips for Success
- Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a consistent 350°F (175°C) for evenly cooked donuts.
- Don’t Overfill: Be gentle when filling the donuts to avoid them splitting.
- Serve Fresh: These donuts taste best on the day they’re made, while the cream is fresh and the dough is soft.
FAQs
1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes! Bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden, then fill and dust with powdered sugar.
2. What other fillings can I use?
Custard, chocolate ganache, or fruit jam are delicious alternatives to whipped cream.
3. How should I store leftover donuts?
Store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Cream Donuts with:
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: The bitterness complements the sweetness of the donuts.
- Hot Tea: A comforting pairing for any time of day.
- Fruit Compote: Adds a tangy contrast to the creamy filling.
Conclusion
These Irresistible Cream Donuts are a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their golden exterior, light cream filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re a joy to make and eat. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Try it today and savor every bite!