Easy Baked Jelly Donuts – soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet jam! This no-fry donut recipe is a healthier alternative to classic deep-fried donuts, made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, milk, and butter. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, these homemade baked donuts are coated in sugar for the perfect finish. Learn how to make the best jelly-filled donuts with this step-by-step recipe!

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided (plus more for dusting)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet = 7 grams)
2/3 cup warm milk (110˚F, microwave for 35 seconds)
4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted, divided
2 egg yolks
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup jelly or jam (without large fruit pieces)
1/3 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add warm milk, 3 Tbsp melted butter, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until well combined. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes, until bubbles form.
Knead the Dough: Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour, a little at a time, until the dough holds together and no longer sticks to the bowl. Knead in the bowl for 5 minutes. If too sticky, dust lightly with flour. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a 100˚F oven for 45 minutes (or at room temperature for 1 1/2 hours) until doubled in size.
Shape the Donuts: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 375˚F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to just under 1/2 inch thick. Cut circles using a 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter. Re-roll scraps as needed to make 12 donuts. Place on the prepared baking sheet, cover with a tea towel, and let rise in a 100˚F oven for 20 minutes (or at room temperature for 45 minutes) until puffed.
Bake: Bake in the center of the preheated oven at 375˚F for 10-12 minutes, until lightly golden on top.
Coat and Fill: Brush hot donuts with the remaining 1 Tbsp melted butter and roll in granulated sugar. Cut a deep slit in the side of each donut and use a pastry bag to pipe jelly into the center.
Serve and Enjoy!

Tips

Use a thermometer to ensure the milk is at the right temperature (110°F) to activate the yeast.
Allow dough to rise properly for soft, fluffy donuts.
Use a pastry bag with a round tip for easy jelly filling.
Serve immediately for the freshest taste!

Variations and Substitutions

Different Fillings: Swap jelly for custard, Nutella, or lemon curd.
Flavored Sugar: Mix cinnamon into the sugar for a spiced coating.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and butter with vegan butter.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, freeze unfilled donuts for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill before serving.

Can I fry instead of bake?
Yes! Fry in hot oil at 350°F for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy warm with coffee or tea.
Serve with extra jam for dipping.
Drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried for a lighter treat.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Customizable: Fill with your favorite flavors.
Perfectly Soft & Fluffy: Light, airy texture with a delicious jelly center.

Enjoy your homemade baked jelly donuts!