Cream Filled Doughnuts: A Delicious Delight for Doughnut Lovers

Introduction

When it comes to sweet treats, few things can compare to the indulgent delight of a cream-filled doughnut. The soft and fluffy dough, paired with a rich and creamy filling, creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a decadent dessert, cream-filled doughnuts are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. In this article, we will share a delicious recipe for homemade cream-filled doughnuts that will have you reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

For the doughnuts:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze:

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, heat the milk until warm (about 110°F). Pour the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Shape and Fry the Doughnuts

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about ½ inch. Using a doughnut cutter or a round cookie cutter, cut out doughnut shapes. Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them with a towel. Allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a deep saucepan or a deep fryer to a temperature of 350°F. Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Transfer the cream filling into a piping bag fitted with a long, narrow tip.

Step 4: Fill the Doughnuts

Using a sharp knife or a doughnut filling tool, carefully make a small incision in the side of each doughnut. Insert the piping bag into the incision and gently squeeze the cream filling into the center of the doughnut until it feels slightly heavier. Repeat with all the doughnuts.

Step 5: Glaze the Doughnuts

In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each filled doughnut into the glaze, making sure it is completely coated. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to allow excess glaze to drip off.

Variations

While the classic cream-filled doughnuts are undoubtedly delicious, you can also experiment with different flavors and fillings to create your own variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Chocolate Cream Filled Doughnuts: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the doughnut dough and fill them with a chocolate cream filling.
• Fruit-Filled Doughnuts: Instead of cream filling, use fruit preserves or fruit curd to fill the doughnuts. Raspberry, strawberry, or lemon curd are excellent choices.
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Doughnuts: Fill the doughnuts with a mixture of peanut butter and your favorite jelly or jam for a nostalgic twist.

Tips

• Ensure that your yeast is fresh and active to help the dough rise properly.
• When frying the doughnuts, maintain a consistent temperature to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Do not overfill the doughnuts as it may cause them to burst during frying.
• If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a small spoon to fill the doughnuts with the cream filling.
• For a professional touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar or colored sprinkles on top of the glazed doughnuts.

Conclusion

Cream-filled doughnuts are a true delight for any doughnut lover. With their soft and fluffy texture, paired with a luscious cream filling, they are a treat that is hard to resist. By following this recipe and adding your own personal touch, you can create homemade cream-filled doughnuts that are sure to impress your family and friends. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this delectable sweet treat.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to make the doughnuts, remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and proceed with shaping and frying.

2. Can I use a different type of filling?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses a classic cream filling, you can experiment with different fillings such as chocolate ganache, custard, or even Nutella. Just make sure the filling has a thick consistency that can hold its shape inside the doughnut.

3. Can I bake the doughnuts instead of frying them?

While frying gives the doughnuts their characteristic texture and flavor, you can bake them if you prefer a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the shaped doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown.

4. How long do the cream-filled doughnuts stay fresh?

Cream-filled doughnuts are best enjoyed on the day they are made. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but they will still be delicious.

5. Can I freeze the doughnuts?

Yes, you can freeze the doughnuts. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and refresh them in a preheated oven for a few minutes.