As I stood in the kitchen, the intoxicating scent of frying dough drifted through the air, promising something special. These Korean Milk Cream Donuts are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a fluffy masterpiece filled with whipped cream goodness that dances on your palate. This quick recipe is an effortless way to indulge and can easily transform into whatever flavor combination sparks your creativity—be it rich chocolate, refreshing matcha, or a burst of berry. Imagine the delight on your friends’ faces when you present them with these golden, airy delights at your next gathering. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they’re also a surprisingly simple dessert that can elevate any occasion! What exciting fillings will you choose for your donuts? Let’s get started!

Why are Korean Milk Cream Donuts irresistible?

Fluffy Texture: Each donut boasts a pillowy softness that melts in your mouth, making them a delightful indulgence.
Customizable Fillings: Whether you crave a rich chocolate filling or a refreshing berry burst, the options are endless!
Quick Preparation: With a straightforward process, you’ll have these scrumptious treats ready in no time—perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these donuts at brunch or family gatherings, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds. You’re bound to impress, just like with other favorites like Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts!
Diverse Options: From matcha to spicy twists, you can easily make these donuts your own!

Korean Milk Cream Donut Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides a tender structure; consider using gluten-free flour for a similar texture.
Sugar – Adds sweetness; you can reduce the amount for a less sweet flavor.
Instant Yeast – Activates the dough for rising; fresh yeast works best for optimal fluffiness.
Milk – Essential for moisture and yeast activation; lukewarm is preferred, or use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Egg – Binds the dough together and contributes to texture; swap with unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version.
Butter – Imparts richness and flavor; coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free substitute.

For the Filling

Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a creamy filling; consider vegan cream as a dairy-free alternative.
Condensed Milk – Optional for extra sweetness in the filling; feel free to omit for a lighter option.
Powdered Sugar – For dusting; enhances visual appeal and sweetness, or skip it if preferred.

As you gather these wholesome ingredients, get ready to create your own Korean Milk Cream Donuts filled with endless possibilities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Milk Cream Donut

Step 1: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 90 ml of lukewarm milk, 1 egg, and 30 g of melted butter until well combined. The mixture should be slightly warm to the touch, stimulating the yeast’s activation. This cozy blend is essential for creating the fluffy texture of your Korean Milk Cream Donuts.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 250 g of all-purpose flour, 25 g of sugar, and 7 g of instant yeast. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until evenly distributed. The aroma of the flour will set the stage for the delicious dough to come, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the donuts.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but hold together well. Aim to mix just until combined to keep your Korean Milk Cream Donuts light and fluffy. If needed, use your hands to bring the dough together.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Place the bowl in a warm area for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. Patience is key here; the dough should puff up and feel airy, setting the foundation for delightful donuts.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently roll it out to a thickness of about ¼ inch. Use a rolling pin to achieve a smooth, even surface. This thickness allows the donuts to fry perfectly, resulting in a beautifully airy interior and a crisp exterior.

Step 6: Cut the Donuts
Using a round cutter, punch out the dough to form donuts and carefully place them on parchment paper. Make sure to leave space between each donut, as they will expand during frying. This step is crucial for achieving that classic donut shape of your Korean Milk Cream Donuts, ensuring even frying.

Step 7: Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of 170-180°C (340-360°F). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise. This warming phase is vital for creating crispy, golden-brown donuts that are utterly irresistible.

Step 8: Fry the Donuts
Gently place the donuts into the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they cook, ensuring they don’t over-brown. This frying magic creates the perfect outer texture, enhancing the soft fluffiness within your Korean Milk Cream Donuts.

Step 9: Prepare the Filling
While the donuts cool, whip together 300 ml of heavy cream and 50 g of sugar in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer to beat until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. The resulting whipped cream will be the luxurious filling that takes your donuts to another level.

Step 10: Fill the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, cut them partially in half and spread a little condensed milk inside for extra sweetness. Make sure to keep the filling light to prevent the donuts from becoming too soggy, allowing your delicious whipped cream to shine through in each Korean Milk Cream Donut.

Step 11: Finish and Serve
Fill each donut generously with the whipped cream using a piping bag or spoon, taking care not to overfill. Dust the top with powdered sugar for that impeccable finishing touch. These delightful Korean Milk Cream Donuts are now ready to be served, offering a fluffy and creamy experience that’s simply irresistible!

Korean Milk Cream Donut Variations

Feel free to personalize your donuts with these exciting twists, enhancing flavor and delight!

Matcha Whipped Cream: Incorporate matcha powder into the whipped cream for a vibrant, earthy flavor.
Chocolate Filling: Mix cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the cream for a rich, decadent treat. Imagining the melty chocolate in each bite makes it hard to resist!
Berry Infusion: Add fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to the cream to brighten up the flavor. The added fruit brings a refreshing burst, making your donuts feel even more indulgent.
Nutty Delight: Fold in crushed nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch. This adds a texture contrast that elevates every munch!
Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a tropical twist. The coconut flavor pairs beautifully with the fluffy donut, giving you a mini-vacation in every bite.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Swap the powdered sugar for a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top for a warm, cozy touch. This little adjustment can evoke comfort as you savor your treat.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne to the filling for an unexpected heat element. This spicy surprise complements the sweetness and adds an adventurous flair!

Don’t forget, if you’re in the mood for more sweet inspirations, check out our delicious Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts for another fantastic dessert option!

What to Serve with Korean Milk Cream Donuts?

Elevate your delightful donut experience by pairing them with these delicious accompaniments that perfectly balance their sweet, creamy goodness.

Coffee Bliss: Rich, dark coffee enhances the fluffy donuts, creating a comforting balance perfect for brunch.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant fruits adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the donuts.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce takes the indulgence to another level.
Matcha Latte: Pair with a creamy matcha latte for an extraordinary fusion of flavors that captivates the senses.
Creamy Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw brings a crunchy, tangy element, offering a delightful textural contrast.
Berry Syrup: Drizzling berry syrup over the donuts enhances their fruity vibe and adds a pop of color.
Sparkling Citrus Drink: A zesty, fizzy beverage cleanses the palate, allowing the donut’s richness to shine even brighter.
Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream for an irresistible dessert combo.
Whipped Cream Topping: For extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream beside your donuts, enhancing the creamy filling.
Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkles: Lightly dust with cinnamon sugar for an aromatic, sweet touch that warms the palate.

Storage Tips for Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Room Temperature: Store filled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain their fluffy texture and fresh flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the donuts in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps keep them fresh, but may slightly affect the texture.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled donuts in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before filling and serving.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat filled donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften and refresh their creamy goodness right before serving.

Expert Tips for Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Lukewarm Milk: Ensure the milk is lukewarm to properly activate the instant yeast, creating airy and fluffy donuts.
Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the dough; this can lead to tougher donuts. Mix until combined for a light texture.
Test Oil Temperature: Use a small piece of dough to test oil temperature before frying to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Proper Cooling: Let donuts cool slightly before filling with whipped cream; this helps maintain the cream’s structure and prevents it from melting.
Customize Safely: Experiment with fillings like matcha or chocolate, but ensure they’re not too wet to avoid soggy donuts.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Milk Cream Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh treats with minimal hassle! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate after shaping the donuts. Additionally, the whipped cream filling can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just re-whip before filling the donuts to restore that delightful texture. When you’re ready to fry the donuts, heat your oil and then proceed as usual; they will be just as fluffy and delicious! Enjoy the time-saving benefits while impressing your loved ones with these irresistible delights!

Korean Milk Cream Donuts Recipe FAQs

What kind of milk should I use?
Using lukewarm milk is crucial for activating the yeast properly, enhancing the rise and fluffiness of your donuts. If you prefer a dairy-free option, almond milk works well; just ensure it is also lukewarm when mixing it in with the other wet ingredients.

How should I store my Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
To retain their fluffy texture, store your filled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you want to keep them for longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain freshness but may slightly affect the texture.

Can I freeze Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Absolutely! You can freeze unfilled donuts by placing them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To enjoy them later, simply thaw them at room temperature before filling them with whipped cream. If you prefer warm donuts, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If you find that your dough hasn’t risen after 1.5 to 2 hours, check that your instant yeast is fresh and that your milk was warm enough. If it’s too cold, the yeast will not activate properly. You can give the dough more time in a warm spot or knead in a bit more yeast to help it along.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! These Korean Milk Cream Donuts can be made vegetarian, and for a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free flour. Additionally, you can make them vegan by substituting the egg with unsweetened applesauce and the butter with coconut oil. Always check for any allergies related to specific ingredients in the fillings you choose.

What type of filling options do you recommend?
The filling possibilities are endless! For a unique twist, try matcha whipped cream, rich chocolate filling, or a burst of fresh berries. Choose fillings wisely to avoid excess moisture that could make the donuts soggy; this is particularly important if you’re going for a fruit filling. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!