Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  2. Add warm milk, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling

  1. Heat 1 ½ cups of milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and the remaining ½ cup milk until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
  4. Pour everything back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter for a silky finish.
  6. Let the cream cool completely before using.

Step 3: Shape and Fry the Donuts

  1. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to ½-inch thickness.
  2. Use a round cutter (or a glass) to cut out donut shapes.
  3. Place the cut-out dough on a floured tray, cover with a towel, and let them rest for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the donuts in batches, 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
  7. While still warm, roll the donuts in granulated sugar.

Step 4: Fill the Donuts

  1. Transfer the cooled cream to a piping bag fitted with a filling tip.
  2. Make a small hole in each donut and pipe the cream inside.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cream-Filled Donuts

✅ Use fresh yeast – Expired yeast won’t allow the dough to rise properly.
✅ Don’t overheat the milk – If it’s too hot, it will kill the yeast.
✅ Let the dough rest fully – This ensures soft, airy donuts.
✅ Maintain oil temperature – Too hot, and the donuts burn; too cold, and they absorb oil.
✅ Use a piping bag for filling – A spoon won’t work well for stuffing the donuts evenly.

Delicious Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun filling ideas:

🥄 Chocolate Ganache Filling – Replace the vanilla cream with a mix of melted chocolate and heavy cream.
🍓 Strawberry Jam Filling – Use fruit preserves for a fruity twist.
🥜 Peanut Butter Filling – Mix peanut butter with whipped cream for a nutty surprise.
🍮 Dulce de Leche Filling – A caramel-like filling that adds rich sweetness.
☕ Coffee Cream Filling – Infuse the cream with espresso for a mocha-flavored donut.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

Homemade donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store them:

  • Room temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Store cream-filled donuts for up to 3 days, but they will lose some softness.
  • Freezing (without filling): Freeze plain donuts for up to 2 months, then thaw and fill when ready.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a soft, homemade donut and discovering the creamy, sweet filling inside. Whether you’re making these for a holiday treat, a special occasion, or just a cozy weekend breakfast, these homemade cream-filled donuts will never disappoint.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, heat up that oil, and enjoy the magic of homemade bakery-style donuts!

Would you like a step-by-step video to go along with this recipe? 🎥🍩😊