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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk, then stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, or knead by hand. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Fillings
While the dough is rising, prepare your fillings. For chocolate ganache, heat the cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate chips in a separate bowl. Stir until smooth and let cool.
For vanilla custard, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool completely before using.
For cream cheese filling, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If you’re using fruit jam, simply choose your favorite and set it aside.
4. Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
5. Add the Fillings
Place a small spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the dough to break during frying. Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal the donut. Roll the sealed donut into a ball, ensuring the filling stays inside.
6. Fry the Donuts
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
7. Coat the Donuts
Once the donuts are slightly cooled but still warm, roll them in granulated sugar to coat them. If you’re making cinnamon-sugar donuts, mix cinnamon with the sugar and use this mixture instead.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Donuts
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to fill the donuts with a lot of filling, but be sure to use a small amount to ensure the dough doesn’t burst open during frying.
- Watch the Frying Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the donuts will burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. If it’s too cool, the donuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If the yeast doesn’t foam after being mixed with warm milk, it may be expired and won’t allow the dough to rise properly.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings. You can use nutella, caramel, or even a custard-like lemon curd for a citrusy twist.
Variations and Additions
- Chocolate Stuffed Donuts: Fill the donuts with a rich chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat.
- Berry Jam Donuts: Use raspberry or blueberry jam for a fruity and tangy filling that pairs wonderfully with the soft, fluffy dough.
- Nutty Fillings: Try adding crushed nuts (such as almonds or hazelnuts) into your chocolate ganache or cream cheese filling for added texture and flavor.
Why Stuffed Donuts Are a Hit
Stuffed donuts are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the comfort of a classic donut while adding an element of surprise with the flavorful filling. These treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack for a gathering. Whether you go for chocolate, jam, or cream-filled donuts, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Once you try these homemade stuffed donuts, you’ll never look at regular donuts the same way again. They’re soft, sweet, and bursting with flavor—truly a treat you’ll want to make again and again!
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