Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe – tired of dense, heavy donuts that leave you disappointed? Hi there! I’m Lisa, the heart and soul behind Recipesrealm, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share my perfected soft cream-filled donuts recipe that will transform your kitchen into a heavenly bakery. After years of experimenting and countless batches, I’ve mastered the art of creating pillowy-soft donuts with luscious cream filling that melts in your mouth. As someone who believes food creates memories and brings people together, this recipe holds a special place in my heart – it’s the one that made my family gatherings legendary!
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the secrets to achieving bakery-quality results at home, including dough preparation techniques, filling selection tips, frying methods, and creative variations that will make every bite feel like a special occasion.
Why This Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe Works
This Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe delivers on three essential fronts: incredible flavor, surprising convenience, and endless versatility. Here’s what makes it absolutely irresistible:
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have • Creates perfectly tender donuts in just 2 hours from start to finish
• Works beautifully for breakfast treats, dessert spreads, or special celebrations • Produces bakery-quality results without expensive equipment • Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, perfect for meal prep
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
The foundation of any exceptional Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe lies in selecting quality ingredients that work harmoniously together.
Best Flour Types for This Recipe
All-purpose flour creates the ideal texture balance – providing enough structure while maintaining tenderness. Bread flour works if you prefer slightly chewier donuts, while cake flour produces ultra-tender results.
Yeast Selection Tips
Active dry yeast offers consistent results and longer shelf life. Always proof your yeast in warm liquid (110°F) with a pinch of sugar to ensure it’s alive and active before mixing.
Fat Substitutions
Butter creates rich flavor and tender crumb, but vegetable oil works for dairy-free versions. Coconut oil adds subtle tropical notes that pair beautifully with vanilla cream filling.
Ingredients & Prep for Your Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Donut Dough Essentials
For the Donuts: • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup granulated sugar • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast • 1 teaspoon salt • 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F) • 1/4 cup melted butter • 2 large eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Filling Components
• 2 cups heavy cream • 1/3 cup powdered sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened) • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Essential Pantry Staples
Vegetable oil for frying (about 6 cups), powdered sugar for dusting, and vanilla extract for enhanced flavor depth. Keep ingredients at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing for optimal texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Creating perfect donuts requires attention to timing and technique. Follow these detailed steps for consistent, bakery-quality results.
Pre-Cooking Prep for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Proof yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar for 5 minutes until foamy. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl. Create a well in center and add wet ingredients. Mix until shaggy dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cooking Method for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Heat oil to 350°F in heavy-bottomed pot. Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness and cut into 3-inch circles. Let rise for 45 minutes until doubled. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Doneness Check for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Internal temperature should reach 190°F. Donuts should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched. Oil temperature is crucial – too hot creates burnt exteriors with raw centers.
Cooling for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Cool donuts completely on wire racks for 30 minutes before filling. This prevents cream from melting and ensures clean injection points for professional-looking results.
Pro Tips for Perfect Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Avoiding Dense or Greasy Donuts for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Maintain consistent oil temperature using a candy thermometer. Don’t overcrowd the pot – fry 3-4 donuts maximum per batch. Proper proofing is essential; under-proofed donuts become dense while over-proofed ones collapse.
Tool Recommendations for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Candy thermometer ensures perfect frying temperature. Piping bag with long tip creates clean cream injection. Stand mixer with dough hook saves time and energy during kneading process.
Storage & Reheating for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Store unfilled donuts at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for 3 months. Fill donuts just before serving for best texture. Reheat briefly in 300°F oven to restore crispness.
Flavor Variations for Your Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Transform your basic Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe into exciting new creations with these delicious variations.
Sweet Twist for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Add cinnamon sugar coating, chocolate glaze, or maple frosting. Incorporate lemon zest into cream filling for bright, citrusy notes that complement the tender donut perfectly.
Dietary Adaptations for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Create gluten-free versions using 1:1 flour substitute. Dairy-free options work with coconut milk and vegan butter. Sugar-free variations use stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Global Flavors for Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Japanese-inspired matcha cream filling, Italian cannoli-style ricotta filling, or French pastry cream with vanilla bean. Each variation maintains the soft, pillowy texture while introducing exciting new taste profiles.
| Variation Type | Key Ingredients | Prep Time | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Cream | Cocoa powder, dark chocolate | +15 minutes | Melt chocolate completely |
| Strawberry Filling | Fresh berries, strawberry extract | +20 minutes | Strain seeds if desired |
| Coffee Cream | Espresso powder, coffee extract | +10 minutes | Use strong coffee concentration |
| Lemon Curd | Fresh lemon juice, lemon zest | +30 minutes | Cook until thick consistency |
Serving Suggestions for Your Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Perfect Pairings
Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or chai tea for breakfast indulgence. Pair with fresh berries and mint for elegant dessert presentation. Hot chocolate creates the ultimate comfort food combination.
Presentation Ideas
Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate ganache, or roll in cinnamon sugar. Arrange on tiered stands for special occasions or serve individually on dessert plates with fresh fruit garnish.
FAQs About Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
Can I make the dough ahead of time for this Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe? Yes! Prepare dough and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature and complete second rise before frying for fresh results.
How do I prevent soggy donuts in my Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe? Ensure oil temperature stays at 350°F and don’t overfill with cream. Fill donuts just before serving for optimal texture.
Is this Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe suitable for beginners? Absolutely! While it requires patience for rising times, the techniques are straightforward and forgiving for new bakers.
Can I bake instead of fry this Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe? Baked versions work at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, though texture will be more cake-like than traditional fried donuts.
Conclusion
Fire up your kitchen and treat yourself to these heavenly soft cream-filled donuts tonight! This Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe has already brought joy to thousands of home bakers who’ve discovered the magic of creating bakery-quality treats at home. The combination of pillowy-soft texture and luscious cream filling creates an unforgettable experience that transforms ordinary moments into special memories.
At Recipesrealm, we believe every recipe should bring people together and create lasting joy. These donuts embody that philosophy perfectly – they’re not just desserts, they’re edible hugs that make every gathering more memorable.
Ready for your next baking adventure? Try our Chewy Dessert Favorite: White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies Recipe or explore ourGooey Dessert Bars: Easy S’mores Bars Recipe for more show-stopping treats that will have your family and friends begging for the recipes!
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends or save it to try later!
I’d be thrilled to see your personal touch—share your photos on Pinterest
Print
Soft Bakery-Style Sweets – Soft Cream-Filled Donuts Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, pillowy bakery-style donuts fried to golden perfection and filled with a rich, creamy custard for the ultimate sweet treat.
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Vegetable oil, for frying
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup pastry cream or vanilla pudding
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp sugar and let it sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add eggs, butter, and yeast mixture, then knead until a soft dough forms.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough, roll out to 1/2-inch thick, and cut into rounds with a donut cutter or glass.
6. Place on a floured surface, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
7. Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry donuts in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
9. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
10. Whip heavy cream and fold into pastry cream to make the filling.
11. Once donuts are cool, poke a small hole and pipe cream into the center.
12. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla to the cream filling.
Best enjoyed fresh on the same day.
You can also coat donuts in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Bakery-Style
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: cream-filled donuts, bakery-style donuts, soft donuts recipe