3 ½cupsall-purpose flourstart with 3 cups, add more as needed
Vegetable oilfor frying
Granulated sugarfor rolling
Raspberry Cheesecake Filling:
¾cupheavy creamcold
8ozcream cheesesoftened
¼cuppowdered sugar
1tspvanilla extract
⅓cupraspberry jam or pureestrained if seedy
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Instructions
Donut Dough:
Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, 2 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mix wet ingredients: Add eggs, remaining ¼ cup sugar, vanilla, and butter to the activated yeast. Mix until smooth.
Add dry ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt. Mix until dough forms.
Knead: Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5 minutes) until smooth and slightly tacky.
First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled—about 1 to 1½ hours.
Roll dough to about ½ inch thick. Cut into 2 ½–3 inch rounds. Place on parchment-lined tray. Cover and let rise again until puffy, about 45 minutes.
Fry: Heat oil to 340–350°F (170–175°C). Fry 2–3 donuts at a time, flipping once, until deep golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Sugar coat: While warm, roll in granulated sugar.
Raspberry Cheesecake Filling:
Whip cream: In a cold bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks. Set aside.
Cream cheese base: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Combine: Fold in raspberry jam (and optional mashed raspberries). Gently fold in whipped cream until combined and fluffy.
Chill: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before piping.
Assembly Tips:
Use a piping bag with a Bismarck tip (or a narrow round tip) to fill each donut from the side. Fill generously until you feel resistance.
Notes
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. After the first rise, you can cover and refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
These are designed for frying for that classic texture, but you can bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Brush with butter and roll in sugar while warm.
Q: How long do they stay fresh?
Best enjoyed the day they’re made. You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but filling may soften the donut texture.
Q: Can I use frozen raspberries in the filling?
Yes. Thaw and strain excess liquid. Blend into jam or puree before mixing in.
Q: Do I need a thermometer to fry?
Highly recommended. Maintaining 340–350°F (170–175°C) is key for even cooking without greasy donuts.