Fluffy Baked Donuts with Custom Fillings Recipe

These Fluffy Baked Donuts are a guilt-free indulgence—airy on the inside, golden on the outside, and adaptable to a spectrum of fillings including custards, creams, and fruit preserves. Unlike fried versions, baked donuts offer a lighter texture with reduced oil content, making them ideal for seniors, children, and wellness-minded home bakers. Inspired by heritage sweets and modern nutrition, this version incorporates gentle heat-proofing methods and variations that invite creativity.

You can customize the donuts using turmeric-infused custard for anti-inflammatory support or aloe-vera fruit jam for digestive ease. Each donut becomes a vessel of nourishment cloaked in sugar-coated joy. Whether served during festivals, family breakfasts, or garden tea sessions, these are more than baked goods—they’re edible rituals.

🛒 INGREDIENTS

Dough Base

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided + extra for dusting
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (quick acting; 1 packet = 7g)
• ⅔ cup warm milk (approx. 110°F, microwaved for ~35 seconds)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and divided

Optional Filling Ideas

• Vanilla custard (store-bought or homemade with milk, egg yolk, vanilla)
• Fruit preserves (e.g. strawberry, fig, or aloe-infused)
• Chocolate ganache or hazelnut spread
• Turmeric cardamom cream (for a South Asian twist)

For Coating

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or rooh afza mist for floral notes

🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm milk and 2 tbsp of melted butter. Stir until well incorporated.

Wellness Tip: Avoid overheating the milk—above 115°F may kill yeast enzymes crucial for a fluffy rise.

Step 2: Form the Dough

1. Gradually mix in the remaining 1 cup of flour until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
2. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until elastic and smooth.

Creative Note: Add a pinch of grated ginger or turmeric for immune-boosting elements.

Step 3: First Proof

1. Transfer dough to a greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel or cling wrap.
2. Let rise in a warm spot (kitchen corner or inside an unheated oven) for 1 hour or until doubled.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

1. Punch down the dough gently to release air.
2. Roll out to ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape.
   • Alternatively, make round balls for filled donuts.
3. Place on parchment-lined trays.

Step 5: Second Proof

1. Cover shaped donuts with a cloth and let rest for 30 minutes—critical for fluffiness.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush tops with remaining 2 tbsp butter for crispness.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until light golden brown.

Insight: Overbaking dries out the interior. Watch carefully during the last 2 minutes.

Step 7: Cool & Sugar Coat

1. Let donuts cool slightly—warm enough to hold shape, but not hot.
2. Roll in granulated sugar. Add cinnamon if desired for warmth.

Step 8: Fill Your Donuts

1. Fit your preferred filling into a piping bag with a narrow nozzle.
2. Insert into the side of each donut and gently squeeze until filled.

Health Tip: Use aloe-based fruit compotes or curd-based spiced fillings to combine therapy with taste.

🧘 WELLNESS PROFILE