Doughnuts with jam, baked in the oven

Jam-filled baked donuts – a classic, delicious, and healthier dessert!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 120 minutes
Servings: 12-15 donuts

Donuts, a symbol of joy and childhood, have a long history that spans the globe. Whether fried or baked, donuts are a dessert that makes us feel good. In this recipe, we will focus on a healthier baked version that retains all the fluffiness and delicious flavor of traditional donuts, but without being fried in oil.

This recipe is perfect for a special breakfast, a sweet snack, or a dessert that can delight the whole family. Jam-filled donuts are easy to make, and we can customize the filling according to our preferences.

Ingredients needed:

- 1 kg all-purpose flour (choose high-quality flour for the best results)
- 5 eggs (preferably from free-range hens for better flavor)
- 1 liter milk (you can use whole milk for a richer consistency)
- 100 g granulated sugar (suggestion: you can adjust the sugar amount to taste)
- 70 g butter (at room temperature or melted, depending on preference)
- Zest of one lemon (to give a fresh flavor to the donuts)
- 1 packet of Bourbon vanilla sugar (choose a high-quality vanilla sugar)
- 40 g fresh yeast (check the expiration date to ensure it is active)
- 1 teaspoon salt (salt helps enhance flavors)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting at the end)
- Rum essence (optional, but adds a depth of flavor)
- Homemade apricot jam or your favorite jam (can also be raspberry, blackberry, or cherry jam)

Preparation of the donuts:

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, add 100 ml of warm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast) along with a little sugar. Add the crumbled fresh yeast and stir gently. Let it rise for 10 minutes until a light foam forms on the surface.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, place the flour, salt, and lemon zest. Mix the dry ingredients well. Add the activated yeast and mix using a stand mixer fitted with dough hooks.

3. Adding wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs with the remaining milk. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture while continuing to mix. Then, add the soft butter and mix again until the dough becomes homogeneous. Don’t worry if the dough is a little softer than expected; this is perfect!

4. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place (you can use the oven set to the rising function or a spot near a radiator) for 30-60 minutes until the dough doubles in volume.

5. Shaping the donuts: Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough to about 1.5 cm thick. Use a cutter or glass to cut out the donuts. Place them on a floured surface and let them rise for another 20 minutes.

6. Filling and preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. Arrange the donuts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. On half of the donuts, place a teaspoon of jam, then cover with the other half of the donuts, gently pressing the edges to seal. Brush the donuts with beaten egg for a beautiful golden color.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the donuts for about 40 minutes until they become golden and fluffy. Check them occasionally, keeping in mind that every oven bakes differently.

8. Finishing: Once the donuts are baked, let them cool slightly on a rack. Dust them with powdered sugar and, if desired, add a few drops of rum essence for extra flavor.

Serving and suggestions: Jam-filled donuts are excellent served warm, but can also be enjoyed cold. You can accompany this dessert with aromatic tea or freshly brewed coffee. They are perfect for a brunch table or as a sweet snack between meals.

Tips and variations: You can experiment with different types of jam or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an even more interesting flavor. You can also try filling them with chocolate cream or peanut butter for a more modern twist.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the appropriate ratio (about one-third of the amount of fresh yeast).
- How can I store the donuts? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature and consume them within 2-3 days to enjoy their freshness.

Nutritional benefits: These donuts are a source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, thanks to the ingredients used. With a fruit jam filling, you also bring a portion of vitamins and antioxidants to your dessert.

Savor every bite of these baked jam-filled donuts and enjoy the sweet moment they bring to your life! Enjoy your meal!