There’s something magical about biting into a cream-filled donut. As the rich, velvety filling oozes out, it creates a delightful explosion of sweetness that dances on your taste buds. The fluffy dough envelops it all, making each bite feel like a soft hug for your mouth. Whether you’re enjoying one at breakfast or sneaking a late-night snack, these treats promise to elevate your mood and satisfy your sweet tooth.

I can still remember the first time I attempted to make cream-filled donuts. My kitchen looked like a flour bomb exploded, but the joy on my family’s faces when they took their first bite was worth every sprinkle of powdered sugar. cream cheese puffs strawberries and cream dessert These donuts are perfect for celebrations, cozy brunches, or just because Tuesday needs some excitement. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry cheesecake cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cream-filled donuts are easy to prepare and will impress everyone at the table
- The flavor balance between sweet cream and soft dough is heavenly
- They look beautiful dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate
- Perfect for any occasion or as an indulgent treat anytime
I once surprised my friends with these donuts at a breakfast gathering, and they were gone before I could even grab a second one.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best structure; it’s the backbone of your donuts.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to both the dough and filling; choose fine sugar for better mixing.
- Active Dry Yeast: Ensure it’s fresh for maximum fluffiness; look for packets dated far into the future.
- Whole Milk: Warmed milk helps activate yeast; it should feel warm to touch but not hot enough to scald.
- Butter: Softened butter adds richness; use unsalted butter to control salt levels in your recipe. savory chicken puffs.
- Eggs: These add moisture and richness; room temperature eggs mix better into the dough.
For the Cream Filling:
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Use cold cream for optimal whipping; it’ll whip up light and fluffy in no time.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the cream without adding graininess; sift it beforehand for a smoother texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor beautifully; avoid imitation vanilla for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warmed milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit until frothy, this means your yeast is alive and ready to party.
Add Ingredients Together: Stir in sugar, softened butter, eggs, and flour until a sticky dough forms. It should be smooth yet slightly tacky to touch.
Knead Away!: Transfer your dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s elastic and smooth, like a workout but with tastier rewards!
Let It Rise!: Place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, typically 1 hour.
Shape Your Donuts: Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface until about ½ inch thick. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to shape them.
Fry Those Donuts!: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry each donut until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. They should puff up beautifully!
Create Your Cream Filling: While donuts cool, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined, this filling is dreamy! For more inspiration, check out this Vanilla custard cream bars recipe.
Fill ‘Em Up!: Once cooled, use a piping bag or squeeze bottle to inject that luscious cream into each donut. A little bit of filling goes a long way!
Now you’re ready to devour those glorious cream-filled donuts! Enjoy them right away or share them with friends (if you must).
You Must Know
- Cream-filled donuts are a delightful treat
- The fluffy dough combined with creamy filling creates a heavenly bite that will satisfy any sweet tooth
- Remember, fresh is best; enjoy them warm for the ultimate experience!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the dough and allowing it to rise properly. Fry the donuts in hot oil for golden perfection, then fill them with cream while they’re still warm to create a luscious texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different fillings like raspberry jam or chocolate ganache. Topping your cream-filled donuts with powdered sugar or sprinkles adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cream-filled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them briefly in the microwave for that freshly fried taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients, especially yeast, for the best results
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; this helps achieve even cooking
- Experiment with various fillings and toppings to discover your favorite combination!
Creating these cream-filled donuts was a memorable adventure for me. I still recall my first attempt when friends praised my “culinary genius,” even if I did nearly burn down the kitchen!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, using store-bought dough can save time and still yield delicious results.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
Drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should bubble immediately when ready.
What can I use as a filling besides cream?
Consider fruit preserves, custard, or even peanut butter for fun variations. mini peanut butter cheesecakes.

Homemade Cream-Filled Donuts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Savor the delightful experience of homemade cream-filled donuts! With a fluffy, golden exterior and a rich, creamy filling, these treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at brunch or enjoy them as a late-night snack, each bite promises to bring joy and satisfaction to your sweet tooth. Follow this simple recipe to create these heavenly delights that will impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup whole milk (warmed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warmed milk and active dry yeast; let sit until frothy.
- Stir in sugar, softened butter, eggs, and flour until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough to ½ inch thick; cut into donut shapes.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C); fry donuts until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.
- While cooling, whip heavy cream; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Fill cooled donuts with cream using a piping bag.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (70g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg