The first time I took a bite of a Korean Milk Cream Donut, I was transported to a bustling street market, the sweet scent of fried dough wrapping around me like a warm hug. These irresistibly fluffy donuts have a golden-brown exterior that gives way to a soft, whipped cream-filled center, making them an absolute must-try. What I love most about this recipe is that it transforms simple pantry ingredients into a delightful gathering treat. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a casual get-together, they are quick to whip up and even more fun to customize—think matcha, chocolate, or juicy berries! Are you ready to create a melt-in-your-mouth moment that will leave everyone asking for seconds?

Why Are These Donuts a Must-Try?

Irresistibly Fluffy: These donuts are not just any treat; their texture is a game-changer. With a crispy exterior that flawlessly contrasts the soft, whipped cream filling, each bite is pure bliss!

Quick and Easy: Made with accessible ingredients, this recipe transforms your basic pantry staples into a dessert that impresses without the fuss.

Customizable Fun: Delight in a range of fillings—matcha, chocolate, or fruity berry bliss. The options are endless, catering to everyone’s taste preferences!

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a brunch with friends or a casual family get-together, these fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are sure to be the highlight.

Mouthwatering Aroma: The smell of frying dough will fill your kitchen with warmth, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste! Pair these with a cup of coffee or your favorite juice for the ultimate experience. Want to explore more delicious ideas? Check out Churn Vanilla Cream for a sweet side treat!

Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Ingredients

For the Donut Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides a tender structure; no substitutions recommended.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness; adjust to taste for personal preference.
• Instant Yeast – Ensures dough rises properly for that fluffy texture; use fresh for best results.
• Milk – Essential for moisture and activating yeast; lukewarm is ideal, or substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; replace with unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
• Butter – Enhances flavor and moisture in the dough; coconut oil works as a dairy-free alternative.

For the Filling
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a light, fluffy filling; either homemade or store-bought is perfect.
• Condensed Milk – Optional addition for an extra touch of sweetness and richness in your filling.

For Topping
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for dusting the finished donuts; optional but recommended for that beautiful finish.

These delightful fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are bound to become a favorite treat in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth and combined. This mixture is crucial for activating the yeast and ensuring the soft texture of your fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts. Set it aside for a moment as you gather your dry ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. Whisk them together until well mixed, making sure there are no lumps. This step lays the foundation for the texture of your donuts, ensuring they rise beautifully and are packed with flavor.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Using a spatula, mix until the dough begins to come together, forming a soft and slightly sticky consistency. Avoid overmixing; this will help keep your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts light and airy.

Step 4: Let Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm, draft-free area for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size. This rising phase is essential for achieving the delightful fluffiness of your donuts, so be patient!

Step 5: Roll Out Dough
Once your dough has risen beautifully, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick using a rolling pin. Make sure to keep the thickness even for uniform cooking. As you roll, you’ll see the dough starting to stretch and become elastic, a good sign that it’s ready for cutting.

Step 6: Cut Donuts
Utilize a round cutter to cut out donut shapes from the rolled dough. Place each donut on a sheet of parchment paper, ensuring they have enough space between them to rise again. This step brings out the fun in making your fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts, and you can even use different-sized cutters for variety.

Step 7: Heat Oil
In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 170-180°C (340-360°F). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is just right; oil that’s too hot can burn the donuts, while oil that’s too cool will make them greasy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 8: Fry Donuts
Carefully fry the donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a light golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently, ensuring even frying. As they cook, they’ll puff up beautifully, showcasing their fluffy nature.

Step 9: Whip Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will be the luscious filling for your donuts, enhancing their fluffy texture. Make sure your equipment is cold to ensure a successful whip.

Step 10: Prepare Donuts for Filling
Once the donuts have cooled slightly on paper towels, cut each one in half. If desired, you can spread some condensed milk inside for added sweetness. This step adds a delightful layer to your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts, making them even more irresistible.

Step 11: Fill Donuts
Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each donut generously with the whipped cream. Dust the finished donuts with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch. This final step transforms them into a show-stopping dessert that looks just as wonderful as it tastes!

Tips for the Best Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh yeast and milk for optimal rise and flavor. Stale ingredients can lead to dense donuts that lack that fluffy texture.
Temperature Control: Ensure the oil temperature is precise while frying. Test with a small piece of dough; if it sizzles right away, you’re ready to fry!
Do Not Overmix: Combine the dough just until it forms a soft, slightly sticky consistency. Overmixing can create tough donuts rather than the desired fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut.
Proper Cooling: Let the donuts cool slightly before filling. This prevents the whipped cream from melting, maintaining the light and fluffy texture you desire.
Experiment with Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Add your favorite flavors to make your fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts truly unique and enjoyable.

What to Serve with Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Pairing these dreamy donuts with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Rich Coffee: A warm, freshly brewed cup complements the sweetness and richness of the donuts, making each bite feel cozy.
Chilled Fruit Juice: A refreshing glass of tangy orange or bright berry juice balances the indulgence with its acidity, brightening the flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream is a delightful contrast to the fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts, creating a decadent dessert combination.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a burst of freshness, adding a vibrant color and a tart flavor to each sugary bite.
Light Custard: A silky vanilla or coconut custard enhances the overall sweetness while adding a luxurious touch to your indulgent treat.
Whipped Cream Topping: Extra whipped cream on the side invites guests to indulge even more, pairing beautifully with both classic and unique fillings.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate enriches each donut with a rich, velvety finish that makes every mouthful utterly irresistible.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola can lend texture, making for a pleasantly surprising contrast to the pillowy softness of the donuts.

How to Store and Freeze Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts covered at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: Place donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed at room temperature to keep their fluffy consistency intact.

Freezer: Freeze individual donuts for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for optimal fluffiness.

Reheating: If you have frozen donuts, allow them to thaw completely before reheating on low in the oven or microwave to prevent a soggy texture.

Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Variations

Feel free to have fun and customize your donuts with these delightful options that will tantalize your taste buds!

Matcha Delight: Add 1-2 tablespoons of matcha powder to the whipped cream for a vibrant green tea flavor that complements the donuts beautifully. The earthy notes will surprise and please those who enjoy a twist on traditional sweets.
Chocolate Dreams: Incorporate cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the cream filling to create a rich and decadent variation. Chocolate lovers will relish this indulgence!
Berry Bliss: Fold in fresh mashed strawberries or blueberries into the cream for a fruity explosion in each bite. This variation not only tastes wonderful but also adds a burst of color and freshness.
Nutty Crunch: Mix crushed almonds or walnuts into your cream for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This nutty delight elevates the texture and makes each donut even more satisfying.
Coconut Cream: Substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist. This will infuse a delightful coconut aroma that transports you to a sunny beach.
Cinnamon Sugar Finish: Instead of powdered sugar, sprinkle the finished donuts with a cinnamon-sugar blend. It adds a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for chilly days.
Lemon Zest Infusion: Stir in some lemon zest into the cream for a bright and zesty filling that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy donuts. It’s a refreshing change that will uplift your palate.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Top your filled donuts with a drizzle of salted caramel for an exquisite sweet-salty contrast. This indulgent touch makes the donuts absolutely irresistible!

Enjoy exploring these fun variations, and don’t hesitate to check out my other recipes, such as Homemade Strawberry Bars that are also perfect for gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate after the first rise. The donuts can also be cut and placed on parchment paper, then covered with plastic wrap, and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days before frying. To maintain their fluffy texture, be sure to let them rise again at room temperature before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry, fill with whipped cream, and dust with powdered sugar for delightful results that are just as delicious as if made fresh!

Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ingredients for my Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose all-purpose flour that feels soft and fine to the touch; this will ensure a tender donut. When picking your instant yeast, check the expiration date to guarantee it’s fresh; the yeast is key to achieving that light and fluffy texture. For the milk, aim for whole or 2% as it adds richness, but if you’re after a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works beautifully!

How should I store leftover donuts?
To keep your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts fresh, store them covered at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you have leftovers after that, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed at room temperature, so just take them out to enjoy!

Can I freeze Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts, and if so, how?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to preserve your donuts. Allow them to cool completely after frying. Then, place each donut in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it at room temperature, or if you prefer, reheat it gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their soft fluffiness.

What should I do if my donuts turn out dense instead of fluffy?
Very! To avoid dense donuts, ensure you don’t overwork the dough; mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, make sure your yeast is fresh—stale yeast won’t rise properly. Pay attention to the rising time; if it’s too short or the dough isn’t kept in a warm area, it may not rise enough. Lastly, check that your oil is the correct temperature during frying; too hot or too cool can affect the overall texture.

Can I make these donuts suitable for a vegan diet?
Of course! To make your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts vegan, simply substitute the egg with unsweetened applesauce and replace the butter with coconut oil. For the filling, use a vegan whipped cream or make your own by blending chilled coconut cream until it’s light and fluffy. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without compromising their dietary choices!