Italian cream-filled donuts are a timeless dessert loved for their soft, pillowy texture and rich, creamy filling. Unlike ordinary donuts, these treats are enriched with eggs and butter, giving them a luxurious crumb and a bakery-style finish. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar and filled with smooth vanilla cream, they are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions.
This recipe is made using simple pantry ingredients and traditional methods to help you achieve authentic, bakery-quality Italian donuts at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Soft and fluffy texture with a rich, buttery flavor
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Perfectly balanced sweetness
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Ideal for filling with vanilla cream, custard, or whipped cream
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Made with simple, everyday ingredients
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Suitable for home bakers and professionals alike
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
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2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
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½ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs (room temperature)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying and Finishing
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Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
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Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Stir gently and let it rest for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise properly.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, softened butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and supple. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the donuts their fluffy structure.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Divide it into equal portions (about the size of a golf ball) and shape each portion into a smooth ball. Place them on a floured surface, cover, and let rest for 20–30 minutes.
This resting time helps the donuts puff up and fry evenly.
Step 6: Fry the Donuts
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to 170–175°C (340–350°F). Fry the donuts in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown.
Remove the donuts and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Fill and Finish
Allow the donuts to cool slightly. Using a piping bag fitted with a small nozzle, fill each donut with vanilla pastry cream, custard, or whipped cream. Finish by generously dusting with powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with coffee or espresso
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Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence
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Fill with hazelnut cream, lemon cream, or chocolate custard for variation
Storage Tips
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Best enjoyed fresh on the same day
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours
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Unfilled donuts can be frozen for up to 1 month
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes. If using instant yeast, skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Can these donuts be baked instead of fried?
Yes, but frying gives the most authentic texture. To bake, place donuts on a lined tray and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
What filling works best?
Classic vanilla pastry cream is traditional, but custard, whipped cream, or chocolate cream also work beautifully.
Why is my dough sticky?
Slight stickiness is normal. Avoid adding too much flour, as it can make the donuts dense.
How do I know when the oil is ready?
Drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it rises slowly and starts bubbling, the oil is at the right temperature.
Final Thoughts
Italian cream-filled donuts are a true celebration of homemade baking. With their rich dough, soft interior, and creamy filling, they deliver bakery-level results using simple ingredients and traditional techniques. Whether you’re preparing them for family, guests, or a special event, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
