Indulge in the ultimate treat with this Long Cream Donut recipe! These soft, golden donuts are filled with a luscious vanilla cream and finished with a sugar glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar. Start with a fluffy yeast-based dough, allow it to rise, and shape it into long ovals. After frying to perfection, each donut is generously filled with whipped cream and topped as desired. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any sweet craving, these donuts are versatile and easy to customize with different fillings or toppings like chocolate drizzle or fruit creams. Enjoy them fresh or store leftovers in an airtight container for later indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe promises bakery-quality results at home. Makes 10–12 donuts. Total time: ~3 hours. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful homemade experience!
Why Homemade Long Cream Donuts Are a Must-Try
Long cream donuts are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing friends and family. These light, airy donuts are filled with a rich, velvety cream and topped with a glossy glaze or powdered sugar. They’re versatile, customizable, and ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat anytime. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy bakery-quality donuts right in your kitchen, with ingredients you can trust and the joy of homemade goodness.
Ingredients for Perfect Long Cream-Filled Donuts
Donut Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Vegetable oil for frying
Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Dusting (Alternative to Glaze):
- Powdered sugar or granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Long Cream Donuts
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add sugar, eggs, and butter to the yeast mixture and whisk until combined.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Donuts:
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into long oval shapes (about 5–6 inches in length).
- Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
3. Fry the Donuts:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F.
- Carefully fry 2–3 donuts at a time, flipping occasionally, until golden brown (about 1–2 minutes per side).
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow to cool.
4. Make the Cream Filling:
- In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Transfer the cream to a piping bag fitted with a long nozzle.
5. Fill the Donuts:
- Use a skewer or chopstick to create a hole in the side of each donut.
- Pipe the cream filling into the donuts until they feel full but not bursting.
6. Glaze or Dust:
- For a glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the tops of the donuts and let them set.
- For dusting: Roll the donuts in powdered or granulated sugar.
Storing and Reheating Homemade Long Cream Donuts
- Servings: Makes about 10–12 long cream donuts.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours.
Variations
- Flavorful Fillings:
- Swap the vanilla cream for custard, chocolate ganache, or fruit-flavored creams.
- Add a hint of citrus zest for a fresh twist.
- Toppings:
- Drizzle chocolate or caramel over the donuts.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top.
- Dough Variations:
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Holiday-Themed:
- Incorporate red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel icing for Easter.
Storing and Reheating Homemade Long Cream Donuts
- Storage: Place leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days if filled.
- Reheating: Warm the donuts in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh their softness.
- Freezing: Unfilled donuts can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and fill or glaze as desired.
FAQs About Making Long Cream Donuts at Home
1. Can I bake the donuts instead of frying? Yes! Bake the shaped donuts at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter and proceed with filling and glazing.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
3. What if I don’t have a piping bag? A zip-top bag with a corner cut off works as a substitute. Use a long nozzle or simply cut a small tip for precision.
4. Why are my donuts greasy? Ensure the oil temperature is consistent at 350°F. If it’s too low, the donuts will absorb more oil. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
5. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can. Skip the activation step and mix the yeast directly with the dry ingredients.
Conclusion
Long cream donuts are a delightful combination of soft dough, luscious cream, and a sweet finish. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family brunch or a fancy dessert table, these homemade treats are sure to impress. With easy variations, storage options, and pro tips, this recipe is a keeper for donut lovers everywhere. Try it today and enjoy the satisfaction of biting into a freshly made, cream-filled delight!