The moment you sink your teeth into a cream-filled donut, it’s like your taste buds are partying in a sugar-coated wonderland. Picture this: soft, fluffy dough that practically melts in your mouth, enveloping a luscious cream filling that oozes out with the slightest pressure. The sweet aroma wafts through the air, making it impossible to resist. It’s National Donut Day, and what better way to celebrate than with these delightful Cream-Filled Donuts?
I remember my first encounter with cream-filled donuts during a summer fair. I was just a kid, barely tall enough to see over the counter. But that didn’t stop me from begging my mom for one of those glorious treats. With each bite, I felt like I was on top of the world—sugar rush and all! Now, every National Donut Day is a chance to relive that joy and indulge in these heavenly delights that remind me of carefree days spent chasing happiness (and sprinkles).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cream-Filled Donuts are deceptively easy to make, even for novice bakers
- The flavor combination of sweet cream and pillowy dough is simply irresistible
- Their charming round shape and dusting of powdered sugar make them visually appealing for any occasion
- Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they’re versatile enough to satisfy any craving!
Ingredients for Cream-Filled Donuts (National Donut Day Special)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the base of your donuts; opt for unbleached flour for better flavor.
-
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to the dough and balances the flavors perfectly.
-
Active Dry Yeast: Vital for helping your donuts rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
-
Milk: Use warm milk to help activate the yeast and keep your donuts moist.
-
Butter: Adds richness and flavor; melt it before mixing into the dough.
-
Eggs: These provide structure and richness to the donut dough.
For the Filling:
-
Heavy Cream: Whipping this will create a light, airy filling that’s absolutely dreamy.
-
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens up the cream filling while also giving it a smooth texture.
For Topping:
-
Powdered Sugar: A classic topping that gives these donuts their signature look; sprinkle generously!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cream-Filled Donuts (National Donut Day Special)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Activate Your Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C) with active dry yeast and a tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for about five minutes until frothy—this means your yeast is alive and ready to party!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until you have a sticky dough; don’t worry if it’s messy—great things come from chaos!
Step 3: Knead It Out
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about eight minutes until smooth and elastic. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even pretend you’re an Olympic athlete training for donut-making gold.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about one hour or until it doubles in size—perfect time for you to sip some coffee.
Step 5: Shape Your Donuts
Once risen, punch down the dough (it’s therapeutic) and roll it out on a floured surface until about half an inch thick. Cut out circles using a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters. Place them on parchment paper lined baking sheets. For more inspiration, check out this cake recipes recipe.
Step 6: Fry Time
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Fry each donut until golden brown on both sides (about two minutes per side). Once done, transfer them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Finish by whipping heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form—what magic! Pipe this creamy goodness into each cooled donut using a piping bag. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Now gather your friends or family around because it’s time to serve these glorious Cream-Filled Donuts! Watch their eyes widen in delight as they take their first bite—trust me; you’ll be hailed as the donut hero of National Donut Day!
You Must Know
- These cream-filled donuts are not just a sweet treat; they are a celebration on National Donut Day
- Easy to make and utterly delightful, you can customize the fillings to suit your taste
- Perfect for sharing or secretly indulging alone!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your dough first, letting it rise while you whip up the cream filling. After frying, allow the donuts to cool before filling them to avoid melting your delicious cream.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla for almond extract in the cream filling or add lemon zest for a zesty kick. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar or dip them in chocolate for extra sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them and reheat them gently in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature, preventing greasy donuts
- Let the donuts cool completely before filling them to maintain their shape
- Experiment with different fillings like custard or fruit preserves to delight your taste buds!
The first time I made these cream-filled donuts, my friends devoured them within minutes—turns out they were less “dough” and more “wow!” A delicious success that led to my new title: Donut Master! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious desserts recipe.
FAQs :
What are Cream-Filled Donuts?
Cream-filled donuts are delicious treats made from soft, sweet dough that is deep-fried until golden brown and then filled with rich cream. The fillings can vary, including vanilla custard, chocolate, or fruit-flavored creams. These donuts are often topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or glaze, making them irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, especially on National Donut Day, they bring joy with every bite.
How do I make Cream-Filled Donuts at home?
Making cream-filled donuts at home requires several steps but is well worth the effort. Start by preparing the dough using flour, sugar, yeast, milk, eggs, and butter. Once the dough rises, roll it out and cut it into circles. After frying the donuts until golden brown, allow them to cool before filling them with your favorite cream. This homemade version will be fresher and more flavorful than store-bought options.
Can I use different fillings for Cream-Filled Donuts?
Absolutely! While classic cream-filled donuts often feature vanilla or chocolate custard, you can get creative with various fillings. Options include fruit jams, whipped cream, or even savory fillings like cheese. Experimenting with different flavors can add a unique twist to your cream-filled donuts and make them even more enjoyable for everyone on National Donut Day.
How should I store leftover Cream-Filled Donuts?
To keep your cream-filled donuts fresh after making them, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. However, note that refrigeration may alter their texture slightly. For the best taste and freshness on National Donut Day or any day, enjoy them within the first few days after making.
Conclusion for Cream-Filled Donuts (National Donut Day Special) :
Cream-filled donuts are a delightful treat that brings joy to any celebration, especially National Donut Day. With their soft texture and rich fillings, they create a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Making these donuts at home allows you to customize your fillings and enjoy freshness that store-bought versions might lack. Whether you choose traditional flavors or experiment with new ones, these treats are sure to please everyone. Celebrate National Donut Day by indulging in these delicious creations!

Cream-Filled Donuts
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 donuts 1x
Description
Cream-filled donuts are a delightful indulgence, perfect for celebrating National Donut Day. These soft, fluffy treats are filled with rich, creamy goodness that oozes out with every bite. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a dessert, these homemade donuts are sure to impress family and friends. With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable fillings, you can create your own sweet masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (for filling)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: Mix warm milk, yeast, and a tablespoon of sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix until sticky.
- Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth.
- Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape: Roll out the dough to about half an inch thick and cut into circles using a donut cutter.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F and fry donuts until golden brown (about 2 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- Fill: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Pipe into cooled donuts and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (60g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg