why make this recipe
Classic Jelly Donuts are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. These soft and fluffy donuts filled with sweet fruit jam are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a dessert. Making them at home allows you to customize the flavor and enjoy them fresh out of the fryer. Plus, the satisfaction of creating your own delicious donuts is unmatched!
how to make Classic Jelly Donuts
Ingredients:
- 3 ¼ to 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra as needed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 packets (4 ½ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk (any dairy or non-dairy milk works)
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 large egg yolks, at room temperature
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup fruit jam of choice
Directions:
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 2 cups of the flour with the granulated sugar, yeast, and salt on low speed until combined.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the milk and butter until the mixture is warm to the touch and the butter is mostly melted, about 45 seconds (make sure it’s not too hot).
- Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture, along with the egg yolks. Beat everything together on low speed, then gradually increase to medium speed for 2 minutes. The dough will look like batter, which is correct.
- After 2 minutes, switch to the dough hook attachment. Add 1 ¼ cups of flour and knead on low speed until combined and a soft dough forms. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Continue kneading on low speed until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl and forms a ball around the dough hook, about 3 minutes. Increase speed to medium-low and knead until the dough is smooth, about 5 minutes. Add more flour if the dough feels too wet.
- Turn the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface, cover it with a dish towel, and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll the dough out to a 12-inch circle with a thickness of about ½ inch. Cut out as many donuts as possible with a 3-inch round cookie cutter. Knead the scraps together, roll out again, and cut more donuts until you have about 10.
- Place the donuts on greased or parchment-lined baking sheets, cover loosely with a dish towel or plastic wrap, and let them rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Heat 4 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-low heat to 350°F. Prepare a cooling rack on a baking sheet.
- Place 1 cup of granulated sugar in a medium bowl and set aside. Fill a piping bag with your favorite fruit jam and set it aside.
- Fry 2 to 3 donuts at a time for 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spatula to transfer them to the cooling rack.
- Once the donuts are warm but cool to the touch, toss them in the granulated sugar. Squeeze jam into the center of each donut using the piping bag. Serve them warm for the best taste!
how to serve Classic Jelly Donuts
Serve Classic Jelly Donuts warm, allowing everyone to enjoy their soft texture and sweet jam filling. They are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a special treat with coffee or tea. For added flair, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a little icing.
how to store Classic Jelly Donuts
If you have leftovers, store the Classic Jelly Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best eaten within a day or two. However, avoid refrigeration as it can make them lose their fluffiness.
tips to make Classic Jelly Donuts
- Ensure the milk mixture is warm but not hot to prevent killing the yeast.
- If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until it reaches a soft consistency.
- Allow the donuts to rise properly; this step is crucial for a fluffy texture.
- Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy donuts.
variation
You can fill Classic Jelly Donuts with chocolate ganache, custard, or even lemon curd instead of fruit jam. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite filling!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture, but the recipe is best with all-purpose flour.
Q: How long can I store the donuts?
A: The donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I freeze the donuts?
A: Yes, you can freeze the donuts after frying. Just ensure they cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again!