Ingredients:

• For the Donuts:
  • 1 (1/4 ounce) package instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• For Baking:
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
• For Coating:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
• For the Filling:
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (15 ounce) can Oregon Fruit Royal Anne Cherries (drained)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Donut Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the instant yeast with warm water (about 110°F/45°C). Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Stir in the melted butter, lightly beaten egg, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Donuts

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll and Cut the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter to cut out donut shapes. Place the cut donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake the Donuts: Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Step 3: Coat the Donuts

1. Brush with Butter: While the donuts are still warm, brush each one generously with melted butter.
2. Coat in Sugar: Roll each buttered donut in granulated sugar until well-coated. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Whipped Cream Filling

1. Make the Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, add the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Add Cherries: Gently fold in the drained Royal Anne cherries, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Transfer the cherry whipped cream mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.

Step 5: Fill the Donuts

1. Make a Small Hole: Use a small knife or the tip of the piping bag to make a small hole in the side of each donut.
2. Pipe the Filling: Insert the piping bag into each donut and fill it with the cherry whipped cream mixture until each donut feels full.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve your cherry-filled donuts immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy these deliciously fluffy, creamy, and sweet treats!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on approximately 12 donuts

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I fry the donuts instead of baking them?
A: Yes, to fry the donuts, heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry each donut for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Pit and chop fresh cherries, and fold them into the whipped cream for a fresh taste.

Q: Can I make these donuts in advance?
A: You can prepare the donuts a day ahead. Store unfilled donuts in an airtight container and fill them just before serving.

Q: Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
A: Yes, store-bought whipped cream works, but freshly whipped cream gives a richer texture and flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Cherry-Filled Donuts:

1. Use Softened Butter: Softened butter integrates better into the dough, creating a softer texture.
2. Knead Until Smooth: Properly kneading the dough ensures light, fluffy donuts.
3. Chill the Filling: Keep the cherry whipped cream filling chilled until you’re ready to fill the donuts.
4. Filling Technique: When filling, gently press the piping bag to ensure an even distribution of filling throughout the donut.
5. Serve Fresh: Filled donuts are best enjoyed the day they’re made for optimal flavor and texture.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftover filled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the whipped cream filling may soften the donuts slightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled donuts. When ready to enjoy, thaw the donuts at room temperature, coat with sugar, and fill with the cherry whipped cream.

Reheating Tip: Reheat unfilled donuts in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to refresh their texture before filling.

Conclusion:

Cherry-Filled Donuts with Whipped Cream are a delightful and indulgent treat, combining the classic sweetness of donuts with a refreshing cherry and cream filling. This recipe allows you to create bakery-style donuts at home, with a tender, fluffy texture and a creamy center. Perfect for dessert or a sweet breakfast, these donuts are sure to be a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of these cherry-filled donuts with family and friends!