If you have a soft spot for warm, spiced treats with a creamy surprise inside, then you are going to absolutely adore this Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe. Picture golden, pillowy doughnuts fried to perfection and bursting with a luscious chai-infused whipped cream that’s lightly sweet and perfectly fragrant. Each bite feels like a cozy hug, blending the comforting spices of chai with the indulgence of a rich cream filling, making these doughnuts the ultimate homemade delight. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or a special treat, this recipe brings a touch of warmth and joy straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these doughnuts comes from a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role. From the fluffy all-purpose flour forming the tender dough to the warming chai spice blend that infuses the cream with its signature flavor, every component adds a unique layer to the final masterpiece.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for a soft, airy dough that fries up beautifully.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness that balances the spices.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The essential leavening agent for light, fluffy doughnuts.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed: Provides moisture and tenderness to the dough.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Enriches the dough for a soft crumb.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet aroma.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Crucial for that golden, crispy exterior.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold: Whipped to create the creamy filling.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream without grittiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Amplifies the cream’s flavor.
- 2 teaspoons chai spice blend: A fragrant mixture of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and allspice that makes these doughnuts unforgettable.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: For a delicate finish that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Adding warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract transforms the mix into a soft, inviting dough. Kneading it for about 8 minutes builds that smooth, elastic texture you want for fluffy doughnuts. Once your dough is ready, place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about one to one and a half hours. This rise gives your doughnuts the lightness that’s key to their irresistible texture.
Step 2: Shape and Proof the Doughnuts
After the dough has risen, roll it out to about half an inch thick and cut out rounds for your doughnuts. Place these rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover them loosely; they need to rest for another 30 minutes to puff up beautifully before frying. This second rise is where the doughnuts start to develop that perfect airy quality that’s so essential.
Step 3: Frying to Golden Perfection
Heat your vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep pot or fryer. Fry the doughnuts in batches to avoid crowding, cooking each side for just 1 to 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and irresistibly crispy on the outside. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil and let them cool completely before moving on to the decadent filling stage.
Step 4: Whip Up the Chai Cream Filling
While the doughnuts cool, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and that signature chai spice blend until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream is the heart of the Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe – light, fluffy, and infused with those spicy chai notes that make every bite sing.
Step 5: Fill and Dust
Once your doughnuts are cool, use a piping bag to inject the chai cream filling right into the center of each one. A quick dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a charming finish that makes these doughnuts look as tempting as they taste.
How to Serve Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and beautiful, but you can also sprinkle a pinch of extra chai spice or finely chopped toasted nuts on top for a little crunch and an extra layer of flavor. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers add a whimsical, elegant touch perfect for serving guests.
Side Dishes
These doughnuts pair splendidly with a warm cup of chai tea or a frothy latte to echo the spices within. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples can provide a fresh counterpoint, balancing the richness of the cream-filled doughnuts perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, arrange the doughnuts on a tiered stand surrounded by cinnamon sticks and star anise for a cozy, inviting display. You can also serve them alongside small jars of extra chai cream or honey for dipping, turning this treat into a fun, interactive dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chai cream filled doughnuts are best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but since the cream filling is delicate, they lose their ideal texture fairly quickly, so try to enjoy them as soon as possible.
Freezing
Because of the creamy filling and fried dough, freezing these doughnuts is not highly recommended, as the texture might change once thawed. However, you could freeze the dough rounds before frying if you want to prepare in advance. Just thaw and fry fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating
If you need to warm up leftover doughnuts, briefly heat them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to restore some of that fresh-fried crispness without melting the cream inside. Avoid microwaving since it can soften the doughnuts excessively and melt the filling prematurely.
FAQs
Can I substitute the chai spice blend?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a chai spice blend handy, you can create your own mix using cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and allspice in proportions you like. This flexibility lets you adjust the spice profile to your personal taste for your perfect Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe.
Is it possible to bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
While traditional doughnuts are best fried for that crispy exterior, you can bake them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes as a gentler alternative. Just note that the texture will be softer and less crispy, so frying is really key for authentic doughnut goodness in this recipe.
How do I know when to stop whipping the cream?
Stop whipping once you see stiff peaks form — the cream should hold its shape firmly when you lift the whisk. Over-whipping can turn it buttery and grainy, so keep an eye on it! This is crucial for that airy, luscious chai cream filling that makes these doughnuts stand out.
Can I use non-dairy milk or cream?
You can try substituting with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut cream, but keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly. The richness of whole milk and heavy cream really helps achieve the classic, indulgent texture of this Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe.
What’s the best way to serve these doughnuts for a crowd?
For a party or gathering, prepare the doughnuts and filling ahead, then fill them just before serving to keep everything fresh. Set up a chai doughnut bar with toppings like extra powdered sugar, cinnamon sticks, and small bowls of flavored syrups so guests can customize their treats.
Final Thoughts
Making the Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience, combining comforting spices with light, fluffy dough and dreamy cream. They’re perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself or impress friends with something a little special. Dive into this recipe and bring a little extra warmth and sweetness to your kitchen soon!
Print
Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chai Cream Filled Doughnuts are a delightful homemade treat featuring soft, golden-fried doughnuts filled with a lightly spiced chai cream. Infused with warming chai spices including cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and allspice, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of chai with a rich whipped cream filling for an indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Doughnuts
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
Chai Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons chai spice blend (ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and allspice combined)
For Dusting
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until a soft dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape Doughnuts: Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut the dough into rounds. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil depth for frying doughnuts properly.
- Fry Doughnuts: Fry the doughnuts in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make Chai Cream Filling: Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and chai spice blend until stiff peaks form, creating a smooth and flavorful filling.
- Fill Doughnuts: Once doughnuts are completely cool, use a piping bag to fill each doughnut with the chai cream filling carefully to prevent tearing the dough.
- Finish and Serve: Lightly dust the filled doughnuts with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Notes
- Adjust the chai spice blend to your preference for a stronger or milder chai flavor.
- For best taste and texture, enjoy the doughnuts the same day they are made as they are freshest then.
- Ensure the doughnuts are fully cooled before filling to prevent the cream from melting.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature accurately between batches for consistent frying.
