Name: Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ tsp dried yeast; 100 ml whole milk (for yeast activation); 200 ml whole milk (remaining); 60 g unsalted butter; 2 tbsp white granulated sugar; 2 extra-large eggs (beaten); 570 g bread flour; 2 tsp salt; 100 g castor sugar; 20 g dried strawberries; 150 g strawberry jam

Print Recipe· 4.4 from 12 reviews

If you have a soft spot for sweets that bring a burst of fruity freshness and an irresistible sugar crunch, then you are going to adore this Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe. Imagine biting into a pillowy, warm donut that’s bursting with luscious strawberry jam, all wrapped up in a delightful coating of strawberry-infused sugar. This recipe perfectly balances the fluffy texture of homemade donuts with a vibrant, tangy sweetness that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you try making these at home, they’ll instantly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen and among your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine small white bowls and glass containers arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different baking ingredients. At the top center is a large clear glass bowl filled with white bread flour. Below and to the left, a glass measuring cup holds creamy white milk, and below it another glass measuring cup contains light yellow oil. To the right of the milk, two brown eggs sit side by side in a small clear textured glass bowl. Above them and to the right is a small white bowl with beige yeast powder. Below the eggs are three more small white bowls, each filled with fine white salt, granulated white sugar, and dark red jam respectively. The bottom right features a small white bowl of dried strawberries that are red with some natural spots of pink. On the upper right is a small white bowl with pale yellow chunks of butter. The clean arrangement and labels next to each item clearly show all ingredients on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind our Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe lies not only in the technique but also in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding richness, sweetness, or that perfect chewy texture.

Dried yeast (2½ tsp): The essential rising agent that gives the donuts their light and airy texture.
Whole milk (300 ml): Adds richness and moisture, making the dough tender and flavorful.
Unsalted butter (60 g): Gives the dough a buttery softness and enhances overall taste.
White granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens the dough slightly and helps the yeast activate.
Extra-large eggs, beaten (2): Provide structure and richness, binding everything together beautifully.
Bread flour (570 g): The backbone of the dough, giving it that ideal chewy texture.
Salt (2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the dough’s flavor.
Castor sugar (100 g): Used in the strawberry sugar coating for a fine, sweet crunch.
Dried strawberries (20 g): Ground into the castor sugar to add natural strawberry flavor and bright color.
Strawberry jam (150 g): The luscious filling that makes each donut a delightful surprise.

How to Make Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by adding 100 ml of the milk to a small bowl, sprinkle the dried yeast over it, and let it sit for a few minutes. This waking up process is critical because you want the yeast bubbly and lively for the fluffiest donuts.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the remaining milk with the sugar and butter until the butter melts and sugar dissolves. Let it cool until it’s just warm enough. Then, whisk the beaten eggs into this mixture, creating a silky base for the dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift the bread flour and salt together. Sifting helps mix the salt evenly and avoids lumps in your dough, creating a smooth texture.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Using an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, add your activated yeast mixture and half of your flour mix. Mix briefly, then add the warm milk and egg mixture. Switch to the dough hook and add the rest of the flour gradually, kneading until you get a soft but not sticky dough.

Step 5: Knead and Proof

Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and knead the dough for around 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and springs back slowly when pressed. If the dough feels too sticky, a tablespoon of flour can help; too dry, add a splash of milk. Transfer to a buttered bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Once risen, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1.5 cm thickness. Use a 7 cm round cookie cutter to cut shapes. Place the rounds on parchment-lined trays, cover loosely, and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 170°C (340°F). Using scissors, cut small squares of parchment under each donut and carefully slide them, paper and all, into the hot oil. Fry for about a minute per side until golden and puffed. Drain on paper towels.

Step 8: Make the Strawberry Sugar Coating

Grate the dried strawberries finely and mix with castor sugar. While the donuts are still warm, roll them gently in this strawberry sugar to get a beautifully sweet and fruity coating.

Step 9: Fill with Strawberry Jam

Fill a piping bag with strawberry jam. Use a sharp knife to make a small hole on the side of each donut and pipe the jam inside. This hidden jam center is the cherry on top of this delightful Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe.

How to Serve Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe

The image shows a black baking tray lined with light gray parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. On the parchment paper, there are twelve smooth, round, pale yellow dough pieces arranged in a four-by-three grid. The dough pieces are evenly spaced, with a soft texture and slightly flattened shape. In the top left corner, there is a hint of a cream-colored cloth peeking into the frame. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar or some finely chopped fresh strawberries on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Fresh mint leaves also add a refreshing hint that pairs surprisingly well with these donuts.

Side Dishes

Pair these strawberry donuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness. For a brunch setting, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait to keep things bright and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these donuts on a pretty cake stand for a stunning centerpiece. You can also arrange them in a colorful box for gifting or create a fun donut tower by skewering them on sticks for a playful, shareable dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover donuts (though it’s hard to imagine you will), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the donut soft while preserving the vibrant sugar coating and fresh jam center.

Freezing

To enjoy these donuts later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first; after they’re solid, transfer to a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to one month. Just remember to thaw them carefully to keep the jam from leaking out.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or leftover donuts gently in a warm oven (around 160°C / 320°F) for 5–7 minutes. This helps revive the soft texture and melts the jam filling back to its perfect gooey state without drying out the donut.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of dried for the sugar coating?

Fresh strawberries contain too much moisture and won’t blend well into the sugar coating. Dried strawberries are perfect for a fine, crumbly texture that adds concentrated strawberry flavor without sogginess.

Is it possible to bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the donuts at 180°C (350°F) for about 10–12 minutes until golden, though frying gives the best texture and that crispy exterior contrasted with the soft inside.

Can I substitute strawberry jam with another fruit filling?

Absolutely! Raspberry or mixed berry jam works beautifully and keeps the fruity spirit alive, but be sure the jam is thick enough to prevent leaking during frying.

How do I know when the yeast is active and ready?

If the yeast mixture becomes frothy and bubbly within 5–10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use. If it remains flat, the yeast might be old or the liquid too hot or cold, so try again with fresh yeast.

Why is the dough kneaded so long?

Kneading develops the gluten in the bread flour, giving the donuts a chewy but tender texture. A well-kneaded dough ensures your donuts rise well and have that satisfying stretch in every bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about making your own Strawberry Filled Donuts with Strawberry Sugar Coating Recipe at home. This recipe brings together comfort, joy, and a bit of kitchen magic to deliver donuts that are soft, fruit-filled, and beautifully sweet. Whip up a batch for your next breakfast, brunch, or sweet treat moment—you won’t regret the smiles it brings to the table!