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Zesty Lemon Curd Filled Donuts

A close-up of a sugar-coated, fluffy donut cut open to reveal bright yellow lemon curd filled donut center.

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Make bright, citrus-filled donuts with a tart lemon curd center balanced by a sweet, sugared exterior. This recipe simplifies the process for a gourmet donut experience at home.

Ingredients

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  • 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 cup for coating
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 cup prepared lemon curd (for filling)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of the sugar in the warm milk. Let stand 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the dough. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out the donuts. Reroll scraps.
  7. Place the cut donuts on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
  8. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
  9. Fry the donuts in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  10. While still warm, roll the donuts in the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar.
  11. Once cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a long, thin tip to inject about 1 to 2 tablespoons of lemon curd into the center of each donut.

Notes

  • For the best filling results, chill the lemon curd before piping it into the donuts.
  • If you prefer baked donuts, use a standard donut pan and bake at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
  • You can make your own lemon curd by cooking egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and butter until thick.

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