Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly

There’s something undeniably charming about a donut filled with sweet, fruity jelly. These Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly are a delightful twist on the classic treat. Unlike their fried counterparts, these baked versions are light, fluffy, and surprisingly easy to make. As you bite into them, you are greeted by a burst of flavors that take you back to your childhood. Imagine the joy of sharing these with family or enjoying them during a cozy weekend brunch. Let’s get started on creating these delicious gems!

The Upside of Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly

Baked donuts offer several benefits that make them a fantastic choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. First and foremost, they are less messy than frying, and you can enjoy them guilt-free, knowing they are baked, not fried. Additionally, the light texture and fluffy interior make them perfect for holding that luscious jelly filling. These donuts can be customized with your favorite jams or jellies, making them versatile to suit any taste preference.

What Goes In

To make these scrumptious Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast, quick acting (1 packet = 7 grams)
• 2/3 cup warm milk (110°F – microwave for 35 seconds)
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup jelly or jam (no large fruit pieces)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the donuts)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining and kneading the donut dough.
• Donut Pan: A non-stick donut pan ensures that your donuts have that perfect shape.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing dry ingredients and combining wet ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key in baking, so accurate measurements are crucial.
• Spoon or Piping Bag: For filling the donuts with jelly.

How to Prepare Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly

Follow these steps to create your own Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough begins to come together. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, mixing until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out the donuts, placing them into a greased donut pan.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped donuts with a towel and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake the Donuts

Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Fill the Donuts

Once the donuts have cooled, use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill each donut with your choice of jelly or jam.

Step 10: Roll in Sugar

In a shallow bowl, place the granulated sugar. Roll each filled donut in the sugar to coat it evenly.

Make It Fit Your Plan

These Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly can easily be adapted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or soy milk and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative.
• Low Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar for a less sweet donut.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors of jelly or jam, such as raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry.

Errors to Dodge

Baking can be a science, and avoiding common mistakes will lead to perfect donuts every time:

• Don’t skip the rising times—allow the dough to rise adequately for a light texture.
• Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast.
• Don’t overmix the batter; gentle mixing will yield softer donuts.
• Make sure to fill the donuts with jelly after they cool to prevent the filling from melting.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To ensure your Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly stay fresh:

Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the unfilled donuts. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of jelly?

It’s best to stick with jelly or jam that has a smooth consistency. Fresh fruit pieces can make it difficult to fill the donuts properly.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. However, be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the texture.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the donuts the night before, then let them rise in the fridge overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat.

What’s the best way to fill the donuts with jelly?

Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip works best for filling donuts with jelly. If you don’t have one, a small spoon can also do the trick.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed making these Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly, here are some other delicious recipes you might like:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Explore her amazing dessert recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Find more delightful baking inspiration.
• Minimalist Baker – Discover simple and delicious baking and cooking ideas.

Before You Go

These Baked Donuts Filled with Jelly are a delightful treat that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a weekend morning, they are sure to impress. Light, fluffy, and filled with your favorite jelly, they are a sweet reminder of the simple pleasures in life. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the process of baking. After all, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked donuts wafting through your kitchen!