Introduction
Cream-Filled Doughnuts are pillowy yeast doughnuts fried until golden and filled with a smooth, fluffy white cream. Light on the outside and luscious inside, they’re a bakery classic that feels special yet surprisingly doable at home.
Origin
Filled doughnuts trace their roots to European pastries such as German Berliner and Polish Pączki. The American version evolved with sweet cream fillings and powdered sugar toppings, becoming a staple in bakeries and coffee shops.
Cultural Significance
These doughnuts are associated with celebrations, holidays, and comfort treats. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, dessert, or as a special indulgence, they symbolize homemade joy and classic pastry tradition.
Ingredients and Quantities (Makes 12 Doughnuts)
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
White Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp instant vanilla pudding mix (stabilizes filling)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (about 4 cups, for deep frying)
Topping
- Powdered sugar or glaze
Optional Additions
- Almond extract in filling
- Chocolate drizzle
- Cinnamon sugar coating
- Jam layer inside
Tips for Success
✔ Let dough rise fully for fluffy texture
✔ Keep oil at 350°F / 175°C for even frying
✔ Don’t overcrowd fryer
✔ Fill once doughnuts are completely cool
Instructions
1. Prepare Dough
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix flour, sugar, salt, melted butter, yolks, and vanilla.
- Add yeast mixture and knead until smooth (8–10 minutes).
2. First Rise
- Place dough in greased bowl. Cover and let rise 1–1½ hours until doubled.
3. Shape
- Roll dough ½-inch thick.
- Cut rounds and place on tray.
- Cover and rise 30–40 minutes.
4. Fry
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry doughnuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain on paper towels.
5. Make Filling
- Beat cream, powdered sugar, pudding mix, and vanilla until fluffy and thick.
6. Fill Doughnuts
- Use piping bag with long tip.
- Insert into side and fill each doughnut with cream.
7. Finish
- Dust with powdered sugar or glaze.
Description
These doughnuts are light, airy, and golden with a cloud-like vanilla cream center. Each bite is soft, sweet, and irresistibly creamy.
Nutritional Information (Per Doughnut Approx.)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Sugar: 18 g
- Protein: 5 g
Conclusion
Cream-Filled Doughnuts bring bakery magic to your kitchen. With their soft texture and luscious filling, they’re a treat worth the effort.
Recommendation
Serve fresh with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Best enjoyed the same day for ultimate softness.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy these doughnuts as an occasional treat—savoring one slowly allows you to appreciate their richness while keeping indulgence balanced.