Name: Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 300 grams all-purpose flour; 3 grams instant yeast; 30 grams granulated sugar; 3 grams salt; 150 grams milk; 30 grams melted butter (2 tablespoons), divided; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 50 grams granulated sugar (to coat the donuts); 100 grams strawberry jam

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 75 reviews

There is something truly magical about a sweet treat that combines soft, pillowy dough with a luscious fruit filling, and that’s exactly what you get with this delightful Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe. These donuts offer a lighter, less greasy alternative to traditional fried versions, with a tender crumb and a generous burst of fresh strawberry jam in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a special gathering, this recipe brings comfort and joy in every warm, sugary mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface, featuring a large clear glass bowl in the center filled with white all-purpose flour, surrounded by smaller white bowls each holding a different ingredient: granulated white sugar, light tan active dry yeast, fine white salt, and a pinch of brown nutmeg. There is a clear glass bowl with two chunks of pale yellow butter at the top, a small clear glass container of bright red strawberry jelly near the bottom, a small bowl with two whole raw eggs and an egg yolk, a small bowl of light brown vanilla extract, and a clear glass measuring cup filled with white milk. The image has a bright, clean look with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect baked donut. From flour that forms the dough’s structure, to sugar that adds just the right sweetness, and melted butter for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, every component is thoughtfully selected.

300 grams all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, fluffy donuts that rise well.
3 grams instant yeast: Helps the dough rise and develop its airy texture quickly.
30 grams granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness of the jam.
3 grams salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
150 grams milk: Provides moisture and richness, which helps keep the dough tender.
30 grams melted butter (divided): Contributes to a tender crumb and buttery flavor, applied both inside the dough and on top before coating with sugar.
1 large egg, beaten: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
50 grams granulated sugar (to coat the donuts): Creates a sweet, crunchy exterior that’s simply irresistible.
100 grams strawberry jam: The star filling that bursts with fresh, fruity goodness inside every donut.

How to Make Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking together your flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl, creating the perfect dry base. Then add the milk, one tablespoon of melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Give everything a good stir until the mixture looks crumbly but there are no dry patches of flour left. This initial mix will set the stage for a soft, cohesive dough.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rest

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a dish towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. This quick rest allows the gluten to start developing naturally, which transforms the dough from sticky and unmanageable into something much easier to work with.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. If it’s still sticky, dust your hands and the surface lightly with flour, but don’t add too much. Cover the dough with an upside-down bowl and let it rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten, much like a mini break for the dough to get stronger.

Step 4: Knead to Smooth Perfection

After resting, knead your dough for another 5 minutes, aiming for a smooth, supple ball that springs back when you poke it gently. Thanks to the butter, this step should be quick and enjoyable. The dough is ready when it feels elastic and holds its shape beautifully.

Step 5: First Rise

Pop your kneaded dough back into the bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise for about one hour, until it has doubled in size. This rise is crucial because it makes your donuts light and airy rather than dense.

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Roll the risen dough out on a floured surface into an 8 by 10-inch rectangle, about half an inch thick. Use a 2.5-inch round cutter or even the rim of a glass to cut out circles—you should get 12 donuts. Don’t toss the scraps; these can be reshaped into smaller donuts or lovely little rolls.

Step 7: Second Rise Before Baking

Place your donut circles on a parchment-lined baking tray. To keep them from stretching out of shape, transfer carefully with a scraper and sprinkle a little flour on top. Cover with a dish towel and let them rest for 30 minutes at room temperature to puff up again, ensuring a soft, fluffy final texture.

Step 8: Bake Until Lightly Golden

Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the donuts for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent over-browning; you want a delicate golden color that signals their perfect doneness.

Step 9: Butter and Sugar Coating

Right out of the oven, brush the donuts generously with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter. Then roll them in granulated sugar, giving each donut a sweet, slightly crunchy coating that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 10: Fill with Strawberry Jam

Finally, use a pastry bag fitted with a round tip to fill the donuts with 2 teaspoons of luscious strawberry jam. Make a deep slit on the side of each donut and pipe the jam inside slowly, so every bite bursts with fresh, fruity flavor.

How to Serve Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe

Several small, oval-shaped buns are placed directly on a white marbled surface. Each bun has a smooth, light golden-brown top covered with a thick layer of coarse sugar crystals, which adds a rough texture. The buns have soft, slightly rounded edges with hints of a red filling peeking out from the sides. The arrangement is close, showing the buns touching or nearly touching each other. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These baked jelly donuts shine wonderfully on their own, but adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint leaves can add a charming touch. A light drizzle of glaze or melted white chocolate also adds an extra layer of indulgence if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

Pair your donuts with a cup of hot coffee or a creamy latte for the perfect breakfast treat. They also go well with fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of toasted nuts for a delightful brunch spread that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh strawberries and edible flowers. Layer donuts in a tiered stand for a party or cozy brunch, or arrange them alongside a variety of jams and curds for a make-your-own donut bar that will delight all your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your donuts have cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The sugar coating helps keep them from drying out, but they are best enjoyed fresh for that perfect soft texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep your donuts longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to one month. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or leftover donuts by warming them briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This restores their fresh-from-the-oven softness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them rubbery.

FAQs

Can I substitute the strawberry jam with other fillings?

Absolutely! While this Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe highlights strawberry jam, you can easily swap it for raspberry, blueberry, lemon curd, or even chocolate spread to suit your mood.

Why are these donuts baked instead of fried?

Baking makes these donuts a lighter, less greasy option that still delivers on flavor and texture. It’s also cleaner and more approachable for home bakers who want delicious donuts without a deep fryer.

How can I tell when the dough is kneaded enough?

The dough should feel smooth and elastic, and when poked, the indentation should bounce back quickly. If it stays indented, it needs a little more kneading to build the gluten fully.

Is it necessary to let the dough rest twice?

Yes! The first rest develops gluten making the dough easier to knead, and the second or final proof before baking ensures your donuts rise and become wonderfully fluffy and soft.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

It’s possible by substituting milk with plant-based milk, replacing the egg with a flax egg, using vegan butter, and making sure your sugar is also vegan-friendly. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

Making this Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam Recipe is a joyful way to bring some homemade sweetness into your day. It’s simple enough for a weekend baking project but always impressive enough to share with loved ones. Trust me, once you try these soft, jam-filled delights fresh from your oven, they’ll quickly become a favorite treat to bake again and again.