Raspberry Jam Filled Donuts are a timeless pastry treat featuring fluffy, golden-fried dough filled with sweet-tart raspberry jam. Dusted with a fine coating of sugar, these donuts are irresistibly soft and bursting with flavor in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon snack, they offer a homemade alternative to bakery favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These donuts are a classic for good reason: the combination of light, airy dough and luscious raspberry jam is pure comfort. Making them from scratch gives you full control over freshness and filling, and the results are far superior to store-bought versions. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these jam-filled donuts never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
Whole milk
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Salt
Raspberry jam (seedless or seeded, based on preference)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Powdered sugar or granulated sugar (for coating)

Directions

Prepare the dough: In a bowl, activate the yeast in warm milk with a bit of sugar. Once foamy, mix in the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add flour and knead until a soft, elastic dough forms.
Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the donuts: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a donut or biscuit cutter. Place the rounds on a floured tray, cover loosely, and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Fry the donuts: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches, turning once, until golden brown on both sides—about 1–2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Fill the donuts: Using a piping bag fitted with a narrow tip, inject raspberry jam into the center of each donut through the side.
Coat and serve: Roll the donuts in granulated sugar or dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 donuts
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Variations

Baked version: Bake the donuts instead of frying at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, though the texture will differ slightly.
Flavored fillings: Substitute raspberry jam with other flavors like strawberry, apricot, or custard.
Cinnamon sugar coating: Mix cinnamon with granulated sugar for a spiced outer layer.
Chocolate dipped: Dip the tops of the filled donuts in melted chocolate for an extra-indulgent touch.
Vegan version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg substitute to make the recipe fully vegan.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days, but note the texture may firm up. To reheat, microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in a low oven until soft. Avoid freezing jam-filled donuts, as the jam may become watery upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought raspberry jam?

Yes, store-bought jam works perfectly. Choose a quality jam for the best flavor.

Why are my donuts greasy?

If the oil isn’t hot enough during frying, the donuts will absorb too much oil. Maintain a steady 350°F (175°C) for best results.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, although baking will produce a slightly denser donut. The texture will be more like a soft roll than a traditional fried donut.

Do I need a stand mixer to make the dough?

No, the dough can be made and kneaded by hand, though a stand mixer with a dough hook makes the process faster and easier.

How do I know when the donuts are cooked through?

They should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped. Cutting one open is the best way to check doneness during your first batch.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes, prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.

How do I keep the jam from leaking?

Don’t overfill the donuts and ensure you inject the jam deep into the center. Use a piping bag for better control.

Can I use other types of flour?

Bread flour can be used for a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour yields a lighter donut.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil, are ideal for frying.

How do I get a perfect sugar coating?

Roll the donuts in sugar while they are still warm, which helps the sugar stick more effectively.

Conclusion

Raspberry Jam Filled Donuts are a delightful homemade treat that captures the essence of classic pastry with a fruity twist. Soft, pillowy dough filled with vibrant jam and coated in sugar makes for a comforting and satisfying bite. Whether for a weekend breakfast or a festive occasion, these donuts bring a warm and nostalgic charm that everyone will love.

Raspberry Jam Filled Donuts

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes rise time)
Yield: 12 donuts
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Raspberry Jam Filled Donuts are soft, pillowy pastries packed with fruity raspberry jam and dusted in sugar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful homemade dessert that beats store-bought every time.

Instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine milk, sugar, salt, egg, and yeast mixture. Mix in flour gradually, then add butter and knead until smooth and elastic (about 5–7 minutes).
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Roll out dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a donut or cookie cutter.
Place rounds on a tray, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
While still warm, roll donuts in sugar.
Fill a piping bag with raspberry jam and inject into the center of each donut.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.
Try different fillings like lemon curd, chocolate, or other berry jams.
Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a day in an airtight container.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts. Try different fillings like lemon curd, chocolate, or other berry jams. Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a day in an airtight container.
Category: Dessert / Breakfast
Method: Fried
Cuisine: American / European