If you love donuts with a pillowy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a burst of fruity sweetness, this Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Trust me, once you make these at home, store-bought just won't cut it anymore!

A close-up image of several sugar-coated jelly-filled doughnuts stacked closely inside a cardboard box. The doughnuts have a golden-brown outer layer with a sugar crystal texture visible on the surface. Two doughnuts are broken open, showing soft, fluffy white bread inside filled with bright red, glossy jelly that looks thick and smooth. Some jelly is oozing out slightly from the broken parts and from a few small holes on the doughnuts. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I still remember the first time I bit into one of these donuts fresh from the fryer. They’re fluffy and tender thanks to the tangzhong method, perfectly golden on the outside, and bursting with homemade raspberry jelly. Every step is worth it!

Soft, fluffy dough: Thanks to the tangzhong technique, these donuts stay tender longer than your usual fried treat.
Golden perfection each time: Frying at a steady 350°F ensures they’re cooked through without being greasy or burnt.
Customizable fruit filling: Use your favorite raspberry jelly, jam, or preserves for that bright flavor pop.
Great for special breakfasts: Perfect for brunch or weekend treat days when you want something a little special.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before diving into mixing and frying, let's talk ingredients. The magic here lies in simple staples done the right way, with a few tips to keep your dough smooth and your donuts perfectly sweet and tender.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl with clear water, a small white ceramic bowl with pale beige bread flour, a simple white ceramic bowl filled with fine white granulated sugar, a single large clean whole brown egg, a small white ceramic bowl holding creamy whole milk, a smooth ball of pale yellow unsalted butter, a small white ceramic bowl containing vibrant red raspberry jelly, all ingredients fresh and natural, arranged in perfect symmetry and balanced proportions, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Water: Used to make the tangzhong—a cooked flour paste that gives your dough moisture and keeps it soft longer.
Bread flour: This gives the dough structure and chew without being tough, essential for the perfect donut texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and adds a subtle crisp finish when your donuts are rolled in sugar after frying.
Instant yeast: The workhorse for that airy, light rise, helping your donuts puff up beautifully.
Fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the dough.
Whole milk: Adds richness and tenderness, making sure your donuts feel decadent and satisfying.
Egg: Binds everything and contributes to a tender crumb and golden color.
Unsalted butter: Adds flavor and a soft, rich mouthfeel—make sure it’s room temperature for easy incorporation.
Neutral oil: Like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil for frying to keep flavors clean and donut texture flawless.
Granulated sugar (for rolling): Coats the donuts to add that irresistible sweet crunch.
Raspberry jelly, jam, or preserves: The luscious fruit filling that takes these donuts over the top. Homemade or store-bought works wonderfully.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe is how easy it is to customize to fit your taste buds or dietary needs. Donuts are like a blank canvas, so don’t hesitate to mix things up and make them truly your own!

Berry Swap: While raspberry jelly is classic and delicious, I love swapping in other jams like strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot for a fresh twist. Each flavor brings a new little surprise!
Vegan Version: To make these donuts vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoon water) and use a plant-based milk and vegan butter. The dough still comes out soft and fluffy thanks to the tangzhong method!
Chocolate Lovers: Filling the donuts with chocolate hazelnut spread or a homemade chocolate ganache is pure indulgence. Dust the finished donuts with cocoa powder mixed with sugar for an extra-special touch.
Seasonal Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the dough for a cozy seasonal upgrade that pairs beautifully with raspberry jelly.
Glazed Finish: Instead of rolling in granulated sugar, try dipping your cooled donuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. It adds a shiny finish and a little extra sweetness.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe

A close-up shows a woman's hand holding a small, sugar-coated doughnut with a light golden-brown color and grainy sugar texture on its surface. Another woman's hand squeezes a red sauce or jam from a piping bag into a small hole in the middle of the doughnut, filling it with glossy, deep red jam that looks thick and sticky. The background is a white marbled texture, and a long white baking sheet sits behind the doughnut. The image captures the detailed texture of the sugar and jam. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong for That Soft Dough

Start by whisking together ¾ cup water and ¼ cup bread flour in a small saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat while whisking constantly for about 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens into a smooth paste. It’s magic in a pot — this tangzhong step unlocks those incredibly fluffy, soft donuts that melt in your mouth. Once thickened, scrape it into a small bowl, cover, and set aside to cool while you get the rest of the ingredients ready.

Step 2: Bring Your Donut Dough Together

In the bowl of your stand mixer, mix 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons bread flour, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon instant yeast, and 1 ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt. Then add your room temperature ingredients — ½ cup whole milk, 1 large egg, and the tangzhong you just made. Using the dough hook, mix on low speed for about 2 minutes until the dough begins to take shape. This step helps everything blend and the yeast get activated just right.

Step 3: Knead in the Butter for Richness

With the mixer still on low, add 5 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter one tablespoon at a time. Make sure each tablespoon is fully incorporated before adding the next. After all the butter is in, turn your mixer up to medium (speed 2 if you’re using a KitchenAid) and knead for 12 minutes. You’ll know the dough is ready when it’s smooth, elastic, and passes the windowpane test — that means you can stretch a small piece thinly without it tearing.

Step 4: Let the Dough Relax and Rise

Shape the dough into a smooth ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period helps relax the gluten for easier shaping later.

Step 5: Cut Out Your Donuts

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, flour the top lightly as well, and roll it into about ¾-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out 9 donuts. Don’t toss those scraps! Gently re-roll them once, let the dough rest for 5 to 10 minutes so it doesn’t toughen up, then cut again. Preparing little 3-inch parchment squares ahead of time makes moving the donuts easier later.

Step 6: Proof Until Puffy and Delightfully Puffy

Place each cut donut onto its own 3-inch parchment square on a baking tray. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let them proof until they double in size and look wonderfully puffy, which usually takes 45 to 65 minutes. Proper proofing is key to that tender crumb and perfect frying.

Step 7: Heat the Oil to Fry

When your donuts are about halfway through their proof, heat 3 to 4 inches of neutral oil (like canola, vegetable, or avocado) in a heavy pot over medium-low heat. Use a candy thermometer to bring the oil to a steady 350°F (180°C). Maintaining this temperature ensures your donuts cook evenly without burning or absorbing too much oil.

Step 8: Fry to Golden Perfection

When the donuts feel airy to a gentle press, they’re ready. Use a metal slotted spoon to gently lower 1 or 2 donuts into the hot oil on their parchment squares. After 5 to 10 seconds, carefully remove the parchment with tongs and discard. Fry each donut for about 2 ½ minutes total, flipping once halfway through, until they’re a beautiful golden brown. Transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain off excess oil.

Step 9: Sugar-Coat Your Donuts

Once your donuts have completely cooled, toss them generously in granulated sugar until fully coated. This adds that perfect sweet crunch to the outside that contrasts so well with the fluffy interior and sweet filling.

Step 10: Fill with Raspberry Jelly

Fill a piping bag fitted with a small round tip with your raspberry jelly. Gently insert the tip into the side of each donut and pipe slowly until you feel the donut puff slightly and start to resist. This gentle pressure ensures you get a nice, generous filling without bursting the dough. Then step back and admire your beautiful homemade treats!

Top Tip

Mastering the art of these Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe takes a little patience, but these tips will help you get fluffy, golden results every time.

Perfect Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil steady at 350°F (180°C). I learned the hard way that fluctuating temps mean donuts either overbrown or become greasy, but consistent heat gives you that perfect golden crust.
Don’t Rush Proofing: Letting the donuts fully proof until they're puffy and airy is key. Skipping this step was my biggest mistake early on—it really affects texture and how well they fry.
Gentle Butter Incorporation: When adding butter, do it one tablespoon at a time on low speed. It took some trial and error to find this method, but it results in a silky dough that’s easy to work with.
Use Parchment for Frying: Lower donuts with parchment into the oil and then remove paper after a few seconds. This handy trick prevents sticking and keeps your donuts intact.

How to Serve Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe

A flat dough sheet rests on a white marbled surface, with seven round dough pieces cut evenly and placed closely. The dough is light beige, soft, and smooth with a slightly shiny texture. A blue round cutter sits on the right side, partially cutting another circle. The dough scraps between the circles remain on the white marbled surface, showing thin, uneven edges. There is a light dusting of flour scattered on the dough and the surface, giving a soft powdery look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond rolling these donuts in granulated sugar, try dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or a mix of powdered sugar and a hint of cinnamon for extra warmth. You can also drizzle some melted white chocolate or dip just the edges in dark chocolate for an indulgent touch. Fresh raspberries served alongside will echo the jelly filling and add a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

These donuts shine as a breakfast or brunch treat alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a fruity iced tea. Pair them with a simple fruit salad or yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness with some light, fresh flavors. For brunch spreads, complement with scrambled eggs or bacon for savory contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These raspberry jelly-filled donuts are best enjoyed fresh the day they’re made. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day to keep the dough soft and moist. Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry them out and make the sugar coating clump.

Freezing

Freezing freshly made donuts is possible but tricky since they contain jelly filling. To freeze, wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy, but be prepared for some slight texture changes.

Reheating

To revive stored or thawed donuts, warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This helps refresh their softness without melting the sugar coating or jelly filling. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough rubbery and the sugar sticky.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of jelly or jam for filling?

Absolutely! While raspberry jelly offers a lovely balance of sweet and tart, you can swap it out for strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam based on your preferences.

What is the tangzhong method, and why use it?

Tangzhong is a technique where a small portion of flour is cooked with water to create a thick paste. This paste helps retain moisture in the dough, resulting in softer, fluffier, and longer-lasting donuts.

Why do I need to proof the donuts twice?

The first rest relaxes the dough after kneading, and the second proof after shaping allows the donuts to rise properly, become airy, and develop the ideal texture for frying.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to keep your oil at a steady 350°F (180°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil: it should bubble up immediately and float.

Final Thoughts

Making these Raspberry Jelly-Filled Donuts Recipe is such a rewarding experience. The journey from the soft tangzhong dough to the final sugary, jelly-filled bite is like a hug in dessert form. Whether you're treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these donuts bring a warm smile and a little taste of joy. So take your time, enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite!