Doughnuts with jam filling are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. These soft, pillowy doughnuts are filled with luscious jam, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these homemade doughnuts are sure to impress family and friends. The heavenly aroma of freshly fried dough will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make! With a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can create a batch of these irresistible treats right from your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture with a warm jam center.
- Easy to customize with your favorite fruit jams.
- Made from scratch—no store-bought options here!
- Perfect for parties, brunch, or special occasions.
- A delightful activity to do with kids or loved ones.
- Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat any time of day.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (75 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) salt
- 1 tablespoon (30 g) fresh yeast
- 1 cup (250 ml) lukewarm milk
- 1/4 cup (50 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup (200 g) fruit jam (raspberry or strawberry recommended)
- Granulated sugar for dusting
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh Yeast: If unavailable, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon (10 g) of instant yeast; the rising time may vary slightly.
- Fruit Jam: Any flavor can be used to fill your doughnuts—try blueberry, cherry, or even lemon curd for a twist.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness of your dough.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Doughnut cutter or round cookie cutters
- Deep frying pot or a large Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
- Kitchen towel
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Dissolve the fresh yeast in lukewarm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Pour in the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick. Using a doughnut cutter or round cookie cutters, cut out circles.
- Place a spoonful of jam in the center of each circle, then fold the edges over and pinch them tightly to seal the filling inside.
- In a deep pot, heat frying oil over medium heat. Carefully drop the filled doughnuts into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Remove the doughnuts from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel. After a minute, toss them in granulated sugar while they are still warm. Serve immediately!
Cooking Tips
- Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without absorbing too much oil.
- Letting the dough rise properly is crucial for fluffy doughnuts, so be patient during this step.
- Feel free to experiment with different jams or even custards for various flavor profiles.
- If you want less mess, use a piping bag to fill the doughnuts after frying.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
Variations
- Glazed Doughnuts: After frying, dip the doughnuts in a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
- Chocolate-Filled: Replace the fruit jam with a rich chocolate ganache for a decadent treat.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the warm doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra flavor boost.
- Baked Doughnuts: For a healthier option, bake them in a doughnut pan at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these doughnuts warm, accompanied by a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. They are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great addition to brunch gatherings or dessert buffets.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, place the doughnuts in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds but be cautious to avoid making them too chewy.
Nutrition Estimate
- Calories: 220 per doughnut
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 10 g
Recipe Summary Card
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes rising time)
- Servings: 12
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert
- Calories: 220
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use 2 teaspoons (7 g) of instant dry yeast as a substitute, and the dough will still rise nicely.
How can I keep my doughnuts from becoming too oily?
Make sure to maintain the right oil temperature while frying. Also, allow them to drain properly on paper towels before serving.
Can I freeze these doughnuts?
Yes, you can freeze them after frying. Layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to fill the doughnuts?
Using a piping bag with a filling tip makes it easier to inject jam into the fried doughnuts without making a mess.
Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and filling.
Conclusion
These homemade doughnuts with jam filling are a delightful way to indulge yourself and your loved ones. With their soft, airy texture and sweet filling, they are sure to become a favorite! Try making them for your next gathering or simply to enjoy a lovely treat at home. Happy baking!