There are few things in life as nostalgic as biting into a sugar-dusted jelly doughnut. Growing up, they were the highlight of weekend mornings or trips to the bakery. But once I started baking at home, I realized something even better — homemade jelly doughnuts are fresher, softer, and far more satisfying.

These raspberry jelly-filled doughnuts are my ultimate treat. The dough is rich and pillowy, fried until golden, then tossed in fine sugar while still warm. But the real star is the vibrant raspberry filling — slightly tart, sweet, and full of real fruit flavor.

I love making these for special occasions like brunches, birthdays, or just slow Sundays when I want to spoil the people I love (or myself). There’s something so joyful about them — the sparkle of sugar, the sticky berry filling, and the anticipation of that first warm bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Classic bakery style – Just like your favorite doughnut shop
Real raspberry flavor – Homemade jelly with natural tartness
Perfect texture – Crisp outside, fluffy inside
Fun to make – Especially for weekends or special mornings
Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and enjoy anytime

Ingredients List:

all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
instant yeast
salt
eggs
whole milk
unsalted butter
vanilla extract
Oil for frying
fine granulated sugar
fresh or frozen raspberries
lemon juice
cornstarch

There Are 5 Steps To Making These Doughnuts:

Step 1: Make the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add eggs, warm milk, vanilla, and softened butter. Using a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 8–10 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Jelly

In a saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring and mashing berries until bubbly (5–7 min). Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook another 2–3 minutes until thickened. Strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother jelly (optional). Cool and transfer to a piping bag or squeeze bottle.

Step 3: Shape & Proof Doughnuts

Roll dough to about ¾ inch thick on a floured surface. Cut out 3-inch rounds and place on parchment-lined trays. Cover lightly and proof 45–60 minutes until puffy.

Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot. Fry doughnuts 2–3 at a time, 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels, then immediately roll in sugar while still warm.

Step 5: Fill with Jelly

Using a piping bag with a long round tip, fill each doughnut from the side with raspberry jelly. Be generous — the filling is the best part!

Tips to Make This Recipe Your Own:

Use different fruit: Try blackberry, strawberry, or apricot jam.
Add citrus: Fold lemon zest into the dough or filling for brightness.
Go mini: Make smaller rounds for bite-sized versions (adjust fry time).
Extra indulgent: Inject whipped cream or custard along with the jelly.
Top it off: Drizzle with icing or dip the tops in white chocolate for a modern spin.

Storage Tips:

Best fresh: Enjoy within 24 hours for peak softness.
Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: Can be refrigerated up to 3 days (bring to room temp before eating).
Freezing: Freeze unfilled doughnuts in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and fill when ready to serve.
Do not fill doughnuts before freezing — always fill after reheating for best results.

Substitution Tips:

Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and butter.
Egg-free: Substitute ¼ cup plain yogurt or applesauce per egg.
No yeast? Try a cake doughnut base and bake them in a doughnut pan.
Store-bought jam: Works in a pinch, but make sure it’s smooth enough to pipe.

Final Thoughts:

These sugar-coated raspberry jelly doughnuts are everything you want in a homemade treat — warm, fluffy, sweet, and packed with berry flavor. Making doughnuts from scratch might seem like a project, but the reward is so worth it. You get the unmatched joy of that first bite — sugar crystals on your lips, soft dough melting in your mouth, and the burst of tangy raspberry filling.

Whether you're making them for guests, gifting them, or just creating a sweet moment at home, these doughnuts bring magic to any occasion. And once you’ve tasted them, you might just retire your favorite bakery order for good.

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