Strawberry Cream Donuts

Description

Strawberry Cream Donuts

Ingredients:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

2 tbsp sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

1 egg

Oil for frying

For Topping:

1 cup heavy cream, whipped

2 tbsp powdered sugar

Fresh strawberries

Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and egg. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a smooth dough.

2. Shape Donuts:

Roll out the dough and cut into donut shapes using a cutter.

3. Fry Donuts:

Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts until golden brown, flipping halfway. Drain on paper towels.

4. Prepare Topping:

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

5. Assemble:

Spread whipped cream on each donut. Top with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect strawberry cream donuts every time.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the 2 cups of flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp baking powder. This ensures even leavening and flavor distribution.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg lightly. Then, add the 1/2 cup of milk and 2 tbsp of melted, cooled butter, whisking until fully combined.
3. Form the Dough: Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the well. Using a spatula, gently fold until just combined and a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
4. Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, pat or roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter for the donuts and a 1-inch cutter for the holes. Re-roll scraps once.
5. Fry to Perfection: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2-3 inches of neutral oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy. Fry 2-3 donuts at a time for 60-90 seconds per side until deep golden brown. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels.
6. Whip the Cream: While donuts cool, chill a bowl and beaters. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until soft, pillowy peaks form.
7. Assemble: Once donuts are completely cool, spread or pipe a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Decorate with sliced or halved fresh strawberries and a final dusting of powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these donuts immediately after assembling for the best texture. They pair wonderfully with a cup of fresh coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, present them on a tiered stand alongside fresh fruit. You can also drizzle them with a simple strawberry glaze made from pureed strawberries and powdered sugar for extra berry flavor.

How-to Summary

Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine to form a dough. Roll out, cut into rings, and fry in 350°F oil until golden. Cool completely, then top with sweetened whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying? Yes. For baked donuts, spoon the batter into a greased donut pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Note the texture will be more cake-like.

How can I make the whipped cream more stable? Add 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar or a tablespoon of instant pudding mix while whipping. Ensure your cream, bowl, and beaters are very cold.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? It’s not recommended, as the baking powder will begin to activate. For best results, mix and fry the dough on the same day.

What’s the best oil for frying? Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

How should I store leftovers? Store unfrosted donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Once topped with cream and fruit, they are best eaten within a few hours and should be refrigerated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Dough: This develops gluten, leading to tough, chewy donuts. Mix until just combined.
• Frying at the Wrong Temperature: Oil that’s too hot will burn the outside; too cool will make the donuts greasy. Use a thermometer.
• Topping Warm Donuts: Applying whipped cream to warm donuts will cause it to melt and become runny. Ensure they are completely cool.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Frying too many at once drops the oil temperature drastically, resulting in uneven cooking and oil absorption.

Conclusion

These homemade Strawberry Cream Donuts are a delightful treat that combines light, fluffy fried dough with fresh berries and creamy topping. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive and delicious dessert that rivals any bakery. The process is straightforward and rewarding, perfect for a special weekend breakfast or a sweet celebration. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!