Standing at the kitchen counter, I couldn’t help but marvel at the perfectly golden-brown donuts cooling beside me. These Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are like a warm hug on a plate—crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few simple steps, they’re a breeze to whip up, making them an ideal treat for family gatherings or cozy afternoons at home. Plus, their adaptable nature means you can experiment with different fillings and toppings, ensuring your personal touch shines through. Curious to learn how to create these cloud-like delights? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why Are These Donuts So Irresistible?

Delightful Texture: Each donut boasts a crispy exterior that gives way to a fluffy and soft center, creating a perfect contrast.
Quick Prep: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find yourself enjoying these treats in no time!
Customizable Fillings: Feel free to experiment with variations—from matcha to berry-infused creams, the options are limitless.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at family gatherings or casual get-togethers, these donuts are sure to impress your guests, just like my Cookies Cream Dessert does!
Dairy-Free Options: Easily adapt this recipe for dietary preferences, making it inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Perfect Pairing: They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing drink, elevating your snack time experience! Enjoy them fresh, or try them with a coconut cream twist for something extra special!

Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Ingredients

• Ready to create the ultimate treat? Let’s gather our ingredients!

For the Donuts

All-Purpose Flour – Provides a tender structure; consider using cake flour for an even softer donut.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Instant Yeast – Leavens the dough; always check freshness for optimal rise.
Lukewarm Milk – Activates yeast for a good rise; whole milk is best, but consider almond or oat milk for dairy-free options.
Large Egg – Adds moisture and richness; unsweetened applesauce can be a great vegan substitute.
Butter – Infuses flavor and moisture; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free delight.

For the Filling

Heavy Whipping Cream – Essential for that luscious filling; keep it chilled to achieve those perfect stiff peaks.
Confectioners’ Sugar – For dusting and sweetening the donuts’ exterior; it’s a classic touch!
Condensed Milk (Optional) – Adds extra sweetness inside the donuts, enhancing your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut experience.

Toppings (Optional)

Cinnamon Sugar – A delightful twist; replace powdered sugar for a cozy warmth.
Matcha Powder – Blend into your whipped cream for a unique flavor; a lovely twist on traditional taste!
Fresh Berries – Mix into the cream for a refreshing fruity infusion.
Crushed Nuts – Add a nutty crunch to complement the cream.

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

Step 1: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 1 large egg, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Whisk them together until you achieve a smooth and well-blended mixture. This crucial step activates the yeast for our Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts. Set aside for a moment to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. Use a whisk to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly combined, promoting a nice rise in your donuts. This blend will form the base of your fluffy donuts, so it’s essential to get it right.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts light and airy. If the dough feels too tacky, add a little more flour as needed. Once combined, you’re just a few steps away from your delicious treats!

Step 4: Let Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm area for 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll see the dough grow until it doubles in size—this process is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture in your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts.

Step 5: Roll and Cut
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters, cut out donut shapes, making sure to place them on a floured baking sheet for easy transfer later.

Step 6: Heat Oil
In a deep, heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 170-180°C (340-360°F). Use a thermometer for accuracy, as maintaining this temperature is key to getting that golden-brown exterior. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough in the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 7: Fry Donuts
Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, flipping when golden brown. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to paper towels for draining excess oil. This step ensures they stay crispy outside.

Step 8: Whip Cream
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form. It’s important to keep your cream cold for the best results. This fluffy cream will fill the centers of your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts, making them irresistibly creamy.

Step 9: Fill Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled completely, slice them in half. Spread a spoonful of condensed milk inside, if desired, then generously fill each donut with the whipped cream. Dust with powdered sugar for that classic finish, and get ready for delightful bites of fluffy goodness that everyone will love!

Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Variations

Feel free to get creative with these donuts and customize them to your heart’s content!

Matcha Whipped Cream: Add 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder to the whipped cream for a subtle green tea flavor. Its vibrant color and taste will surprise your senses!
Chocolate Cream Filling: Stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the whipped cream for a rich twist. Chocolate lovers unite—the creamy chocolate inflection is irresistible.
Berry Infusion: Fold in mixed berries like strawberries or blueberries into the cream for a refreshing, fruity flavor. These natural bursts of sweetness will brighten your donuts in delightful ways.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the whipped cream for a satisfying crunch. It adds a playful texture and elevates the donut experience.
Coconut Cream: Swap the heavy whipping cream for coconut cream to introduce a tropical flair. This creamy filling pairs wonderfully with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Instead of powdered sugar, mix cinnamon with granulated sugar for a warm, cozy topping. It’s perfect for a fall-inspired treat or just to add a little extra flavor.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the filled donuts for an indulgent touch. The sweet and gooey caramel elevates each bite to new heights!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for those who love a little heat. This unexpected twist brings an exciting contrast to the sweetness—perfect for adventurous palates.

Feeling inspired? Dive into your kitchen and whip up some of these variations for your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts! They’re just waiting for your personal touch. And if you want to complement your donuts with something delightful, consider pairing them with a glass of refreshing fruit juice, or maybe even a delightful cup of coffee!

What to Serve with Irresistibly Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Indulging in these delightful treats opens up a world of delicious pairings that’ll elevate your experience.

Rich Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee beautifully balances the sweetness of the donuts, enhancing each bite with warmth and depth.
Fruity Smoothies: Fresh fruit smoothies add a refreshing, colorful contrast to the creamy donuts, keeping your palate lively and intrigued.
Savory Breakfast Sandwiches: For a delightful mix of sweet and savory, pair your donuts with a hearty breakfast sandwich, creating a satisfying spread.
Chai Latte: The spiced flavors of chai latte create a comforting, aromatic experience that complements the fluffiness of the donuts wonderfully.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea with hints of mint or chamomile gives a calming balance to the sweetness, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
Coconut Milk Shake: For a tropical twist, serve these donuts with a chilled coconut milk shake, echoing the creamy texture of the fillings.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds a fresh burst of flavor, introducing a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the donuts.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the donuts creates an indulgent dessert experience, appealing to every sweet tooth’s dreams!

Storage Tips for Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep the donuts at room temperature for up to 1 day in an airtight container to maintain their texture and freshness.

Fridge: Refrigerate leftover donuts for up to 2 days in an airtight container. However, be mindful that the filling may soften a bit.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts individually for up to 1 month. Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh taste!

Expert Tips for Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts

Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil heated between 170-180°C (340-360°F) to achieve a perfectly crispy texture. Test with a small dough piece; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough until just combined to prevent dense donuts. A soft, slightly sticky texture is the goal for those fluffy Korean milk cream donuts.
Cool Before Filling: Let the fried donuts cool fully before cutting and filling. This prevents the whipped cream from melting and becoming soggy when you bite into them.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, particularly the yeast, are fresh for the best rise and flavor. Old yeast can lead to flat donuts, which we want to avoid!
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize; each bite can be a different flavor! From fruity infusions to nutty delights, make your fluffy Korean milk cream donuts a reflection of your tastes.

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats with ease! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead of time by mixing and letting it rise, then refrigerate it in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to cook, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to get back to room temperature before rolling and cutting. Additionally, the whipped cream can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just give it a quick re-whip before filling the donuts. By prepping these elements ahead of time, you’ll save on busy weeknights while still enjoying fresh, fluffy donuts that taste just as delicious!

Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of milk is best to use for these donuts?
Absolutely! Whole milk is recommended because it helps activate the yeast effectively, giving your donuts that perfect fluffy texture. However, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, I often use almond or oat milk, and they work wonderfully too!

How should I store leftover donuts?
To keep your Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donuts fresh, store them at room temperature for up to 1 day in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 days, but do note that the filling may soften a bit.

Can I freeze these donuts? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your donuts, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh taste.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, it likely means your instant yeast is old or inactive. Always check the expiration date and ensure you’re using lukewarm milk (about 110°F) to activate the yeast properly. Give the dough a warm environment to rise, like near a heater or in a turned-off oven, covered with a kitchen towel.

Are there dairy-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with coconut oil and use unsweetened applesauce in place of the egg for a vegan-friendly donut. For the filling, coconut cream can replace heavy whipping cream, and your donuts will still be delicious and fluffy with a lovely, tropically-inspired flavor!

How long do I need to whip the cream for filling?
For a deliciously fluffy filling, beat the heavy whipping cream with sugar for about 3-5 minutes, until stiff peaks form. Keep your cream chilled before whipping for the best results, and don’t overmix, or you might turn it into butter instead!