As I embarked on my journey to uncover the wonders of international desserts, I stumbled upon a gem that makes any moment feel special: the Korean Milk Cream Donut. These delightful, fluffy donuts are not just a treat, but an indulgence with a creamy heart that sings to your taste buds. With their light and airy texture, they’re perfect for elevating a breakfast spread or adding a touch of magic to your afternoon snack time. Plus, whipping them up at home is a rewarding experience that transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. Are you ready to bring a little sweet joy into your kitchen? Let’s dive into making these irresistible treats!

Why are Korean Milk Cream Donuts irresistible?

Fluffy Texture: Each bite of these donuts is a heavenly experience, light and airy, creating an irresistible cloud-like treat.

Creamy Filling: The rich cream center elevates flavor, making them a standout option for those who adore indulgent desserts.

Homemade Delight: Making these donuts at home allows you to customize the sweetness and filling, ensuring freshness and a personal touch.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether at brunch or for an afternoon treat, these donuts are sure to impress friends and family, making you a dessert hero!

Satisfying Recipe: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these delicious donuts, akin to the flavorful joy of Cream Cheese Chicken or Garlic Butter Shrimp.

Indulge yourself and your loved ones in this delightful culinary adventure!

Korean Milk Cream Donut Ingredients

Get ready to whip up these delicious treats!

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the donuts and can be swapped with bread flour for extra chewiness.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps achieve that beautiful golden color.
Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough; essential for perfecting your Korean Milk Cream Donut.
Instant yeast – This leavening agent makes the dough rise quickly; if using active dry yeast, remember to proof it first.
Milk – Warmed milk activates the yeast; whole milk adds creaminess, while non-dairy alternatives work well too.
Large egg – Adds richness and moistness to the dough; for a vegan version, substitute with a flax egg.
Unsalted butter – Provides flavor and moisture; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.

For the Cream Filling

Heavy cream – The base for your luscious filling, giving it that rich texture, or substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream and gives it a delightful dusting; no substitutes needed here!
Vanilla extract – Boosts the flavor profile; almond extract can be a fun twist if you want something different.

For Frying

Oil for frying – Necessary for cooking the donuts; choose a neutral vegetable oil or coconut oil for frying.

With these ingredients, your Korean Milk Cream Donuts will be fluffy, creamy, and utterly irresistible!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 packet of instant yeast. This blend will create the foundation for your Korean Milk Cream Donuts. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined before moving to the next step, as this ensures an even rise.

Step 2: Form the Dough
Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in 1 cup of warmed milk (around 110°F) and 1 large egg. Mix with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms, which will take about 2-3 minutes. The dough should start to come together but still remain sticky. Once combined, prepare for kneading.

Step 3: Knead
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead in 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter. Continue kneading for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic, becoming less sticky. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back lightly when poked. This step is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture of the Korean Milk Cream Donuts.

Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning it over to coat in oil. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. You can check if it’s ready by lightly pressing it; if it springs back, it’s perfect!

Step 5: Prepare Cream Filling
While the dough rises, whip 1 cup of heavy cream in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add in 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form. This creamy filling is what makes your Korean Milk Cream Donuts so indulgent, so take your time to achieve a smooth texture.

Step 6: Shape Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness, then use a donut cutter to shape the donuts. Place the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and gather any scraps to reroll for additional donuts.

Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the shaped donuts with a clean towel and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes. They should puff up slightly during this time, preparing for frying. This step is important to ensure the donuts remain light and fluffy when cooking.

Step 8: Fry
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place donuts into the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from oil, letting excess oil drain before transferring them to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 9: Dust and Fill
Once all donuts are fried and drained, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Use a piping bag or a small knife to fill each donut with the prepared cream filling. Be gentle so the donuts retain their fluffy texture — this final touch brings your Korean Milk Cream Donuts to life!

Storage Tips for Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Fridge: Store filled Korean Milk Cream Donuts in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days; gently warm them before serving for the best texture.

Room Temperature: Unfilled donuts can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days in a cool, dry place; avoid exposure to humidity.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill before serving.

Reheating: Reheat the filled donuts in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy that creamy texture again, bringing back their heavenly taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Milk Cream Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing and allowing it to rise, then refrigerate it overnight (cover it tightly to maintain moisture). For the cream filling, whip the heavy cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To finish, simply shape and fry the donuts when you’re ready to enjoy them. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality donuts with minimal effort, ensuring that each bite remains just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Savor the delightful experience of pairing these fluffy treats with complementary flavors and textures for a memorable meal.

Rich Coffee: The boldness of freshly brewed coffee enhances the creaminess of the donuts, making each bite even more satisfying.
Herbal Tea: A calming chamomile or mint tea contrasts the sweetness of the donuts, providing a refreshing balance perfect for afternoon indulgence.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy berries and crisp apple slices add a vibrant, refreshing element, brightening up the rich flavors of the cream-filled donuts.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Dusting the donuts with cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar adds a delightful warmth and spice, creating a new flavor experience.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: A silky chocolate dip elevates the donuts to a new level of decadence; the combination of creamy and chocolate is pure bliss.
Ice Cream Scoop: Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla or green tea ice cream, creating a joyful contrast of hot and cold with each bite.
Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy lemonade’s tartness perfectly balances the sweetness, making it an ideal refreshing drink to enjoy alongside your treats.
Creamy Custard: For those who adore an extra creamy element, smooth vanilla custard served on the side will bring an added layer of indulgence!
Pistachio Crumble: A sprinkle of pistachio crumble adds a delightful crunch, providing a pleasing textural contrast to the fluffy donuts and creamy filling.

Expert Tips for Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Warm Milk Wisely: Make sure to warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) to ensure your yeast activates properly; too hot and it will die off.
Knead with Care: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes; this is key for the fluffy dough you desire in your Korean Milk Cream Donuts.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to keep oil at 350°F (175°C); frying at incorrect temperatures can lead to greasy donuts.
Use a Piping Bag: For filling, using a piping bag allows you to fill the donuts neatly and efficiently, preventing any mess. A small knife can also work in a pinch.
Don’t Skip Rises: Allow both the first and second rises to ensure your donuts are light and airy; this is crucial for achieving that delightful texture!
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different flavored extracts or fillings, such as almond for a unique twist on your Korean Milk Cream Donuts!

Variations & Substitutions for Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and make these donuts truly your own!

Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract in the cream filling for a delightful twist that adds a unique depth of flavor. Almond brings a subtle warmth that can elevate your donut experience.
Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the finished donuts in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar for a comforting, cozy finish and a spicy kick. This variation adds a delightful crunch and an aroma that beckons you to indulge.
Dairy-Free: Opt for coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the filling, creating a vegan-friendly treat that still delights with its rich texture. Just like our heavenly Baked Pumpkin Donuts, this swap makes it easy for everyone to enjoy!
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. This not only creates a heartier donut but also gives it a bit of earthy goodness you might love.
Maple Glaze: Instead of simply dusting with powdered sugar, drizzle a maple glaze on top for a rich, sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the cream filling. The hint of maple could transport your taste buds to a cozy fall evening.
Fruity Filling: Experiment with adding a dollop of fruit preserves or jam, like raspberry or strawberry, before piping in the cream. This fruity surprise will be an unexpected delight in each bite!
Spiced Variants: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cream filling for a warm, spiced note that brings an extra layer of flavor and warmth, perfect for chilly days.
Puffed Pastry Donuts: For a textural twist, use puff pastry instead of the traditional dough. The result will be a flaky exterior with a creamy interior, offering a different twist from the fluffy original — it’s like taking a delicious leap towards Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole textures!

By embracing these variations, you can craft a personalized version of Korean Milk Cream Donuts that speaks to your unique taste and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting!

Korean Milk Cream Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for the Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Absolutely! For the best results, select high-quality all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached, as it contributes to the donuts’ structure. Look for instant yeast that’s fresh and not expired; you’ll want it to work efficiently. When choosing milk, opt for whole milk for creaminess, or if you’re looking for a dairy-free choice, go with almond or oat milk. These small selections can make a huge difference in flavor and texture!

How should I store leftover Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Store filled Korean Milk Cream Donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To maintain their softness, lightly warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. Unfilled donuts can stay at room temperature for up to 2 days; just make sure they’re in a cool, dry spot to avoid any moisture!

Can I freeze Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Very! For freezing, I recommend freezing unfilled donuts first. Arrange the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. After about 2 hours, transfer them to a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. This way, they can stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and fill them with your creamy center!

What should I do if my donuts don’t rise?
Sometimes, donuts can be tricky! If they don’t rise, it may be due to old yeast or if the milk was too hot or cold when added to the dough; yeast needs the right temperature to activate. Make sure to warm your milk to around 110°F (43°C). Also, ensure that during the rising phase, the dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area. If all else fails, give them a little more time; patience is key for a fluffy texture!

Are these donuts safe for my pets or those with allergies?
While Korean Milk Cream Donuts are delicious for humans, they’re not safe for pets due to the sugar and dairy. If you’re serving these donuts to friends or family, be mindful of common allergens like gluten and dairy. You can modify the recipe with non-dairy milk and a flax egg for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies, making these treats more inclusive for your gathering!