Strawberry Cream-Filled Doughnuts

Strawberry Cream-Filled Doughnuts

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

• 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, salt, eggs, and butter. Mix until well combined.
   • Add the yeast mixture to the milk mixture.
   • Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Doughnuts:
   • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.
   • Cut out doughnuts using a round cutter. You can also cut out the centers if you want ring-shaped doughnuts.
   • Place the doughnuts on a lightly floured baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
3. Fry the Doughnuts:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry the doughnuts, a few at a time, until golden brown on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let them cool completely.
4. Prepare the Cream Filling:
   • In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
5. Fill the Doughnuts:
   • Using a small knife or a filling tip, make a small hole in the side of each doughnut.
   • Pipe the whipped cream into the center of each doughnut.
   • Spoon a bit of strawberry jam or preserves into the hole as well, if desired.
6. Top the Doughnuts:
   • Dust the filled doughnuts with powdered sugar.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the doughnuts fresh and enjoy!

These strawberry cream-filled doughnuts are sure to be a hit. Enjoy your homemade treat!