Strawberry Cream-Filled Donuts (Baked or Fried)

🕒 Prep Time: 25 minutes

🕒 Rising Time: 1–1.5 hours

🕒 Cook Time: 10–15 minutes

🍩 Makes: 8–10 donuts

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 large egg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• Oil for frying (if frying method)

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• Fresh strawberries (whole and sliced)

• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast.

2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

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Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Add egg, softened butter, and activated yeast mixture.

3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 3: Shape the Donuts

1. Roll dough out to about ½ inch thickness.

2. Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter.

3. Place on lined tray, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.

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🔥 Cooking Options

Option 1: Frying (Classic Donuts)

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.

3. Drain on paper towels.

Option 2: Baking (Lighter Version)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.

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Step 4: Make the Cream Filling

1. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

2. Transfer to a piping bag.

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Step 5: Fill & Decorate

1. Once donuts are completely cool, pipe cream into the center.

2. Dust generously with powdered sugar.

3. Top with fresh strawberries and mint leaves.

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🍓 Tips for Perfect Donuts

• Make sure milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

• Cool donuts completely before adding cream.

• For extra flavor, add strawberry jam inside before the cream.

• Best enjoyed fresh the same day.