Strawberry Filled Donuts are a delicious treat, combining fluffy fried dough with a sweet strawberry filling. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Here’s a recipe that captures that classic bakery-style donut with a homemade strawberry filling.
Ingredients
For the Doughnuts:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/4 cup water (warm)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
For the Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and butter.
- Knead the Dough: Using a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should be slightly sticky but not overly so. Add a bit more flour if needed.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling
- Cook the Strawberries: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring, until the strawberries break down, about 5 minutes.
- Thicken: Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a round tip for easy filling.
Step 3: Shape and Fry the Doughnuts
- Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches) to cut out dough circles. Re-roll scraps if needed.
- Second Rise: Place the dough rounds on a baking sheet, cover with a cloth, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
Step 4: Fill and Coat
- Coat in Sugar: While the donuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar to coat.
- Fill with Strawberry Filling: Insert the piping tip into the side of each donut and squeeze a generous amount of strawberry filling inside.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for the best taste, or at room temperature.
- Enjoy these donuts plain, or drizzle with chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips
- Alternative Filling: You can use store-bought strawberry jam if you’re short on time.
- Storage: These donuts are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1–2 days.
Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Filled Donuts—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with strawberry goodness!