Why You’ll Love Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe

Uses the tangzhong method for ultra-soft, moist donuts
Bakery-quality results with simple ingredients
Customizable with your favorite jelly or jam
Step-by-step instructions for success
Perfect for holidays, parties, or special weekends
Frying technique creates a golden, crisp exterior
Coated in sugar for extra sweetness and texture
No donut pan or fancy equipment required
Make-ahead friendly dough
Tastes better than store-bought!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole milk
Bread flour
Granulated sugar
Instant yeast
Egg yolks
Unsalted butter
Salt
Raspberry jelly (or any fruit jam of your choice)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Additional sugar (for coating)

Directions

Make the tangzhong: Whisk milk and a portion of flour in a saucepan over medium heat until thick like pudding. Let it cool.
Prepare the dough: In a stand mixer, combine tangzhong, remaining flour, sugar, yeast, egg yolks, butter, and salt. Knead until smooth and elastic (10–15 minutes).
First rise: Cover the dough and let it rise at room temperature for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled.
Shape donuts: Roll out the dough and cut into rounds using a cookie cutter. Transfer to a baking sheet.
Second rise: Let the shaped dough rise again for 45–60 minutes until puffy.
Fry the donuts: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry 2–3 donuts at a time for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Coat with sugar: While warm, roll each donut in granulated sugar.
Fill with jelly: Use a piping bag fitted with a small tip to inject each donut with jelly until filled.
Serve: Enjoy immediately for best taste and texture.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 12 donuts
Prep time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)
Rising time: 2.5 to 3 hours total
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: Approx. 3.5 to 4 hours

Variations

Different fillings: Try custard, lemon curd, Nutella, or cream cheese instead of jelly.
Spiced sugar: Mix cinnamon or cardamom with the sugar for a warm flavor twist.
Baked version: Bake instead of fry for a lighter option (note: texture will differ).
Glazed donuts: Skip the sugar coating and dip in a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Mini donuts: Use a smaller cutter for bite-sized treats.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store unfilled donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Filled donuts: Best eaten the same day. If storing, refrigerate in a sealed container for 1 day.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze unfilled donuts after frying. Thaw and reheat before filling and coating.

FAQs

How do I know when the oil is hot enough to fry?

Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F. If you don’t have one, drop in a small dough piece—it should sizzle and float.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape/fry it the next day.

Why are my donuts greasy?

The oil may be too cool. Always maintain 350°F for even, non-greasy frying.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

You can, but bread flour gives a chewier, more structured texture.

What jelly works best for filling?

Seedless raspberry jelly is classic, but any smooth jam or jelly will work.

Do I need a stand mixer?

A stand mixer makes kneading easier, but you can knead by hand—it just takes longer.

How do I pipe the jelly inside?

Use a piping bag with a round or Bismarck tip. Insert into the side of the donut and squeeze until filled.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be doubled. Make sure to fry in batches and maintain oil temperature.

How long do homemade donuts stay fresh?

They’re best enjoyed the same day, but can stay soft up to 2 days when stored properly.

Is it okay to reuse the frying oil?

Yes, strain and store the cooled oil in a container. Reuse up to 2–3 times if not overly browned.

Conclusion

Making jelly-filled donuts at home is simpler than you think—and incredibly rewarding. With a soft, rich dough and your choice of fruity filling, these sugar-dusted treats are sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re preparing them for a weekend indulgence or a festive gathering, these donuts deliver bakery-level results with every bite.