There is nothing quite as joyful as biting into a warm, pillowy treat filled with luscious fruit flavor—that’s exactly what this Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe delivers. Imagine tender, golden donuts with a perfectly soft interior, each burst filled with vibrant raspberry jelly that adds a sweet and tangy punch. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply craving a nostalgic indulgence, these donuts blend classic techniques with a special tangzhong method to create irresistibly fluffy results. Get ready to bring a circle of happiness straight from your kitchen to your taste buds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view of a small silver pot with a creamy, smooth white sauce inside, thick in texture, swirled in the center. A black whisk with a few bits of sauce clinging to it rests in the pot on the right side. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a magic texture and flavor. Each component is crucial: the bread flour for structure, the tangzhong for that dreamy softness, and the raspberry jelly for the perfect fruity filling.

3/4 cup water: The base for the tangzhong, bringing moisture and helping to form the dough’s soft crumb.
1/4 cup bread flour: Used in the tangzhong, this extra flour helps create a gel-like paste for a tender bite.
3 cups + 2 tablespoons bread flour: Provides the strong gluten network needed for a chewy yet soft donut.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps develop beautiful golden color during frying.
1 tablespoon instant yeast: The yeast ensures your donuts rise to fluffy, airy perfection.
1 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors in the dough.
1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
1 large egg (room temperature): Binds ingredients and contributes to the donut’s structure and richness.
Tangzhong (prepared as above): The secret ingredient that guarantees your donuts will stay soft and fresh longer.
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds decadence and a gentle crumb to the donuts.
Neutral oil (for frying): Choose canola, vegetable, or avocado oil for clean frying without overpowering flavors.
Granulated sugar (for rolling): To coat the donuts and add a satisfying crunch and sparkle.
~1 cup raspberry jelly: Whether homemade or store-bought, this is the luscious jewel inside every donut.

How to Make Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

Start by whisking the water and bread flour in a small saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring until it thickens to a smooth paste, which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This tangzhong is your secret weapon for light, airy donuts that stay soft for days.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons of bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add in your milk, egg, and the cooled tangzhong. Knead on low speed until the dough starts to come together, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Butter and Knead

While the mixer is running, add softened butter, one tablespoon at a time. Let the dough fully incorporate it before adding more. When all the butter is in, increase the speed and knead for 12 minutes until the dough is silky, elastic, and passes the windowpane test.

Step 4: First Rest

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes to relax the gluten; this makes the donuts even more tender.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface, roll it to about 3/4-inch thickness, and cut out donut rounds using a 3-inch cutter. Use parchment squares beneath each donut for easy handling during frying. Allow them to rest for 5–10 minutes if you plan to re-roll scraps before the final proof.

Step 6: Final Proofing

Place the cut donuts on the parchment squares arranged on a baking tray, loosely cover with plastic wrap, and let them rise until doubled and puffy, about 45 to 65 minutes. This is where the magic of yeast gives you that pillowy softness.

Step 7: Heat the Oil

While the donuts proof, heat about 3 to 4 inches of neutral oil in a heavy pot to 350°F. A candy thermometer is your best friend here to maintain the perfect frying temperature.

Step 8: Fry the Donuts

With a slotted spoon, gently lower 1 or 2 donuts with their parchment into the hot oil. After a few seconds, carefully remove the parchment using tongs. Fry each side about 1 ¼ minutes until golden. Cooling on a wire rack helps them crisp slightly without getting soggy.

Step 9: Sugar Coating and Jelly Filling

Once cooled, roll the donuts in granulated sugar until fully coated. Then, using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, fill each donut with your favourite raspberry jelly until you feel it puff slightly, signaling the perfect amount of filling inside.

How to Serve Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe

A close-up view of several square-shaped doughnuts coated in sugar, packed tightly in a cardboard box. One doughnut is broken open in the middle, revealing a bright red jam filling with a thick, smooth texture inside the soft, golden-brown dough. Some jam oozes out slightly, while others have a small dollop on top. The doughnuts’ outer layer looks crispy with a dusting of sugar crystals, creating a rough texture against the shiny jam inside. The background features a white marbled texture, which highlights the warm colors of the doughnuts and the red jam photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sugar coating brings out the true beauty of these donuts, but feel free to dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light icing glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte to complement the donut’s sweetness. For an inspired brunch, fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream creates a colorful, balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the filled donuts on a pretty platter with small bowls of additional raspberry jelly and whipped cream. You can even top with edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted coconut to turn your Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe into a centerpiece worth showing off.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, but because they are best enjoyed fresh, plan to eat them sooner rather than later.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a sealed bag. They keep well frozen for up to one month without losing their delightful texture.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or stored donuts in a 325°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until warm and soft. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy rather than tender and fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of jelly instead of raspberry?

Absolutely! This Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe works beautifully with any fruit jelly, jam, or preserves you love—strawberry, apricot, blackberry, you name it.

What is tangzhong and why is it used?

Tangzhong is a cooked flour-water paste that keeps breads and doughnuts incredibly moist and soft for longer. It’s a popular technique in Asian baking that’s magic for fluffy donuts.

Can I make these donuts without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand! It will take a bit more elbow grease—about 15 to 20 minutes—but the results are just as delicious.

Why do the donuts need to rest on parchment during frying?

The parchment prevents sticking during transfer into hot oil, making it easier to slip them off after frying without damaging their perfect round shape.

How do I know when the donuts are done frying?

They should be golden brown on both sides, and when you lightly press the surface, the dough should spring back. Use a timer and flip halfway to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about homemade jelly-filled donuts—the warmth, the comforting aroma, and that first bite of sweet, soft dough with a luscious jelly surprise. This Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or savoring all to yourself. So put on your apron, grab your favorite jelly, and dive into making these delightful treats that are guaranteed to brighten any day.