Homemade Jelly Doughnuts

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There’s something nostalgic and universally comforting about biting into a warm jelly doughnut. Whether it reminds you of a local bakery or a holiday celebration, these pillowy fried pastries filled with fruity jam hit all the right notes. And the best part? You can make them at home with results that rival any donut shop.

Unlike mass-produced doughnuts, homemade jelly doughnuts are tender, rich, and made with love. You control the ingredients, the filling, and how fresh they are when served. This recipe creates doughnuts that are light and airy inside, with a golden, slightly crisp exterior, all dusted with fine sugar and bursting with a sweet, fruity center.

The key to perfect doughnuts is in the dough. We use a yeast-based enriched dough, meaning it includes butter, eggs, and milk for softness and depth of flavor. Don’t rush the rise—letting the dough rest properly gives it the structure and flavor needed to fry up beautifully.

Frying may sound intimidating, but with a thermometer and a little patience, it’s simple and incredibly rewarding. You’ll watch your dough rounds puff up into golden orbs, ready to be filled with luscious jam.

Speaking of jam, you can use any kind you like—raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, even apricot. Make sure it’s smooth enough to pipe into the doughnut; a seedless preserve or jelly works best.

Another big win? These doughnuts are best enjoyed the same day, making them perfect for brunches, birthday breakfasts, or surprising your household on a weekend morning.

Kids love the sweet explosion in the center, adults appreciate the bakery-quality texture, and you’ll love the compliments rolling in.

Make sure to roll them in fine granulated sugar right after frying when they’re still warm. It helps the sugar stick and adds a classic touch.

They’re also very adaptable—you can fill some with chocolate spread, pastry cream, or even lemon curd to mix things up.

Servings:

Makes about 12 doughnuts

Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large egg yolks
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Filling & Finishing:

• 1 cup seedless jelly or smooth fruit jam
• 1/2 cup fine granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if too sticky.
4. Transfer to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
5. Punch down the dough and roll out to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into 3-inch rounds. Place on a floured baking sheet and cover with a towel. Let rest for 30 minutes.
6. Heat the oil: In a large heavy pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts 2–3 at a time until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes per side.
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While warm, roll in granulated sugar.
8. Once cooled, use a piping bag fitted with a narrow tip to fill each doughnut with jelly. Insert the tip into the side and gently squeeze until you feel resistance.
9. Serve fresh and enjoy the soft bite and burst of fruity flavor.

Tips:

• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
• Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain even oil temperature.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot—too many doughnuts can lower the oil temperature and affect texture.
• Roll in sugar right after frying for maximum adhesion.
• Fill only after doughnuts are cool to avoid melting the jelly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These jelly doughnuts are bakery-worthy yet approachable. The dough is soft and airy, the jelly inside is sweet and fruity, and the sugar-dusted exterior is irresistible. They’re perfect for any occasion or just because.

Homemade Jelly Doughnuts bring the joy of fresh, fluffy, jam-filled pastries right to your kitchen. No preservatives, no shortcuts—just pure, delicious satisfaction.