Imagine stepping into your kitchen, the golden aroma of freshly fried donuts swirling around you, coiling into the air like a sweet hug. These Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are not just dessert; they’re a delightful embrace of tradition and taste that can turn an ordinary day into something special. I discovered this recipe during a cozy weekend in, where the need for a comforting treat intersected perfectly with a little creative experimentation.
With their crisp exterior and luxurious cream-filled center, these donuts promise to redefine your sweet cravings, offering a mouthwatering alternative to fast food’s fleeting pleasures. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply need a pick-me-up after a long day, these airy delights are the answer. Plus, with adaptable ingredients for those who prefer dairy-free or vegan options, everyone can enjoy a piece of happiness from the comfort of home. Prepare to make your kitchen the happiest place around with this irresistible recipe!
Why are Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts so irresistible?
Delightful Aroma: As they fry, your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly scent that’s hard to resist.
Cloud-like Texture: The soft cream-filled center paired with a crispy outer layer creates a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Easy to Customize: Whether you want to mix in matcha or berries, these donuts allow for creative variations to suit any palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at brunch or enjoy one as a sweet snack — they’re always a hit!
Healthier Choice: With options for dairy-free substitutes, this treat can cater to everyone’s dietary preferences. Indulge in homemade goodness, and enjoy the satisfaction from crafting something truly special.
Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Ingredients
The perfect combination of ingredients makes all the difference in achieving that soft, pillowy texture we love.
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness; you can adjust the quantity or swap for coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Instant Yeast – Necessary for a light rise; for best results, fresh yeast can be used instead.
- Milk (lukewarm) – Serves as the liquid base, activating that yeast; almond or oat milk works well for a dairy-free option.
- Egg – Acts as a binder for the dough; unsweetened applesauce is a great replacement in vegan versions.
- Butter (melted) – Adds richness to the flavor; coconut oil is an excellent dairy-free substitute.
For the Cream Filling
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Vital for that dreamy filling; coconut cream can replace it in dairy-free recipes.
- Sugar (for whipping cream) – Sweetens the filling; replace with powdered sugar for a smoother texture.
- Condensed Milk (optional) – Adds an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
For Dusting
- Powdered Sugar – A finishing touch, perfect for that sweet presentation; consider a cinnamon-sugar blend for a cozy twist.
How to Make Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts
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Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth and well combined. This mixture will help give your donuts their delightful texture!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, sugar, and instant yeast together until they are evenly combined and fluffy, setting a solid base for your dough.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, using a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until a slightly sticky dough forms. It should pull away from the bowl but still be soft!
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Let Dough Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is key for that fluffy texture!
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Roll Out Dough: Once risen, move the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about ¼ inch thickness. Take care not to overwork it, or your donuts may become dense!
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Cut Donuts: Use a round cutter to create your donut shapes, placing them on parchment paper. Allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes to 1 hour for a lighter texture.
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Heat Oil: Preheat vegetable oil in a deep pan to a temperature of 170-180°C (340-360°F). Check your oil is ready by dipping a small piece of dough in — it should sizzle!
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Fry Donuts: Carefully fry the donuts in small batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and beautiful. Don’t overcrowd the pan for the best results!
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Whip Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form. This perfect filling will elevate your donuts to the next level of deliciousness!
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Prepare Donuts for Filling: Allow the fried donuts to cool completely. Once cool, carefully cut each donut to create a pocket for the luscious filling.
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Fill Donuts: Using a piping bag, fill each donut with the whipped cream, and dust with powdered sugar to finish. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Try adding a touch of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep filled donuts at room temperature for up to 1 day, ensuring they are covered to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. Remember, they are best enjoyed right after filling!
Freezer: For longer storage, unfilled donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen donuts, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes before filling.
Expert Tips for Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality flour lead to the best rise and flavor, ensuring your donuts have that delightful fluffiness.
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Control Your Temperature: Maintain a steady frying temperature to prevent greasy donuts. Always test the oil with a small piece of dough before frying your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients, stop once a slightly sticky dough forms. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of airy ones!
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Be Patient While Rising: Allow the dough ample time to rise. A warm, draft-free spot is ideal; this step is crucial for achieving that light texture.
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Cool Before Filling: Ensure the donuts cool completely after frying. Filling them while warm can cause the cream to melt, disrupting the perfect creamy center.
What to Serve with Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
The bliss of these airy donuts can be elevated even further with delightful pairings that create a complete dessert experience.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed coffee enhance the sweet creaminess of the donuts, creating a perfect morning or afternoon treat.
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Fruity Juices: A splash of fresh orange or berry juice offers a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness and providing a vibrant, zesty accompaniment.
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Berry Compote: Drizzling warm berry compote over the donuts adds a tart burst of flavor, elevating their sweetness to new heights. This vibrant pairing not only looks beautiful but also delivers a delightful taste experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the donuts’ rich filling, making for a decadent dessert that feels extra special.
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Chocolate Sauce: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce creates indulgence in every bite, making these donuts feel more like a luxury dessert.
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Whipped Cream Topping: You can never have too much cream! A dollop of flavored whipped cream on the side can be a delightful addition for those who crave extra decadence.
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Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea like chamomile or mint cleanses the palate between bites, elevating your dessert experience while keeping it cozy.
These pairings ensure that your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts shine even brighter on the dining table, satisfying every craving!
Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity flourish with these delightful variations to make the recipe truly your own!
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Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond or oat milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a delicious dairy-free treat.
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Vegan: Swap out the egg for 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use coconut oil in place of butter for a vegan version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Matcha Whipped Cream: Mix in a teaspoon of matcha powder to your whipped cream filling for a lovely green tea flavor that surprises and delights.
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Chocolate Cream Filling: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to your whipped cream mixture, creating a rich, decadent twist that any chocolate lover will adore.
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Berries Galore: Stir in some fresh strawberries or blueberries into your cream for a burst of fruity freshness, elevating taste and presentation.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate some finely crushed nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, into the dough or as a topping to add a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: After frying, toss warm donuts in a mix of cinnamon and sugar instead of powdered sugar for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for fall.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream filling to create an unexpected, exciting contrast to the sweetness.
Each variation invites you to embark on your donut-making adventure, transforming your kitchen into a haven for innovative flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the steps until the dough has risen, then cover it well with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps prevent over-proofing and keeps the dough just as fluffy when you’re ready to fry the donuts. You can also whip the cream filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply fry the donuts straight from the fridge, fill them with the chilled whipped cream, dust with powdered sugar, and serve for a delightful treat with minimal effort on busy weeknights.
Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture and structure. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute it with a gluten-free blend that includes a measure of xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients.
How should I store my Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Store filled donuts at room temperature for up to 1 day. Make sure to cover them to keep them fresh. For longer storage, place unfilled donuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Freezing is great for having a handy treat later on!
Can I freeze Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled donuts, wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, and then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes before filling them with cream.
What can I do if my donut dough is too sticky or dry?
If your dough is too sticky, try adding a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together but remains soft. If it’s too dry, incorporate a little lukewarm milk gradually, ensuring it doesn’t become overly wet. Remember, the perfect dough should be slightly sticky but maintain a soft texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Yes! This recipe can be easily adapted for dairy-free or vegan diets. Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk, and the egg with unsweetened applesauce. Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for the filling. Also, ensure your sugar is refined and free from animal products when necessary.
How can I customize the filling for my Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
The possibilities are endless! You can add flavors like vanilla extract to your whipped cream, or try different fillings like chocolate, matcha, or fresh berries mixed into the cream. Be creative; the more, the merrier when it comes to customizing your tasty treats!
Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts You Can’t Resist Making
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, sugar, and instant yeast together until fluffy.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a slightly sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Move the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Use a round cutter to create donut shapes and let them rise for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 170-180°C (340-360°F).
- Carefully fry the donuts in small batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- Allow the fried donuts to cool completely and then cut a pocket for the filling.
- Fill each donut with whipped cream and dust with powdered sugar before serving.