Name: Baked Jelly Filled Donuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 cup warm water; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup sugar; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg; 3/4 cup skim milk; 2 tablespoons butter (melted, for brushing); 1/2 teaspoon jelly ((of your choice)); Powdered sugar ((for dusting))

Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut filled with your favorite jelly, its sweetness perfectly balanced with a light dusting of powdered sugar. These Baked Jelly Filled Donuts promise a delightful experience, combining indulgence with a lightened-up baking method. Unlike their fried counterparts, these donuts are baked to perfection, making them a healthier alternative that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of homemade donuts and discover how easy it is to create this delightful treat in your kitchen.

Why This Baked Jelly Filled Donuts Stands Out

These Baked Jelly Filled Donuts stand out for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. Second, the baking process results in a lighter texture without sacrificing flavor. The fluffy dough perfectly complements the fruity jelly filling, creating a delightful treat that is sure to impress family and friends. Finally, you can customize the jelly filling to your liking—whether you prefer raspberry, strawberry, or even a tangy lemon curd, the options are endless!

Ingredient Breakdown

To create these delicious Baked Jelly Filled Donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 teaspoon active dry yeast – This helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
1 teaspoon sugar – This activates the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
1/4 cup warm water – Warm water helps to dissolve the yeast and sugar, preparing it for action.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for our donuts, providing structure and texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.
1/4 cup sugar – For sweetness in the dough.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness to the flavor and texture.
1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
3/4 cup skim milk – Contributes to the moisture and softness of the donuts.
2 tablespoons butter (melted, for brushing) – A final touch of richness before dusting with sugar.
1/2 teaspoon jelly (of your choice) – The delicious filling that makes these donuts special.
Powdered sugar (for dusting) – Adds a sweet finish to your donuts.

Setup & Equipment

Before you begin making your Baked Jelly Filled Donuts, gather the following equipment:

Mixing bowls – For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk – To mix the ingredients smoothly.
Donut pan – Essential for shaping your donuts while they bake.
Pastry bag or zip-top bag – For filling the donuts with jelly.
Baking brush – For brushing melted butter on the donuts.
Sifter – To dust powdered sugar evenly on the finished donuts.

Stepwise Method: Baked Jelly Filled Donuts

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 cup of warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of sugar.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, egg, and skim milk. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 6: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.

Step 8: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut out donut shapes.

Step 9: Bake the Donuts

Place the shaped donuts in a greased donut pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Brush with Butter

Remove the donuts from the oven and brush them with melted butter while they are still warm to add extra flavor.

Step 11: Fill the Donuts

Once the donuts have cooled slightly, fill a pastry bag or zip-top bag with your choice of jelly. Poke a hole in the side of each donut and squeeze in the jelly until you feel a slight resistance.

Step 12: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Finish off your Baked Jelly Filled Donuts by dusting them lightly with powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Variations for Dietary Needs

If you want to customize your Baked Jelly Filled Donuts to suit different dietary preferences, here are some variations:

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or any other plant-based milk instead of skim milk and replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative.
Low Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar in the recipe to suit your dietary needs.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter and milk.

Slip-Ups to Skip

When making Baked Jelly Filled Donuts, keep these tips in mind to avoid common mistakes:

Don’t skip the yeast activation step—this ensures your donuts will rise properly.
Avoid over-kneading the dough, as this can lead to tough donuts.
Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Be cautious not to overfill the donuts with jelly, as this can cause them to burst.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Baked Jelly Filled Donuts fresh:

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month. If freezing, make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy them later, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain their fluffy texture.

Reader Questions

Can I use different fillings for these donuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various types of jelly, custards, or even chocolate ganache. Just make sure the filling is not too runny, or it might leak out.

How do I know when my donuts are baked perfectly?

The donuts are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should also spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired yeast or water that was too hot. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and use warm water (about 110°F) for optimal results.

Final Bite

These Baked Jelly Filled Donuts are a delightful treat that brings the joy of baking into your kitchen. With their fluffy texture, sweet filling, and easy preparation, they are sure to become a favorite for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. Impress your friends and family with this homemade delight, and watch as they savor each bite.

Create memories and special moments with your loved ones as you enjoy these delicious donuts together. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and let’s get baking!