Name: Strawberry Jelly Donuts
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American / Nostalgic
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 3 tbsp sugar; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup warm milk; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Oil for frying; ½ cup strawberry jam or jelly; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp milk; Pink food coloring; ¼ tsp vanilla extract; Pink, red, and white sprinkles

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Strawberry Jelly Filled Donuts with Pink Glaze are a whimsical twist on the beloved classic. These airy, golden-fried donuts are filled with sweet strawberry jam and topped with a glossy pink glaze, finished with playful sprinkles in shades of pink, red, and white. Perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying a nostalgic craving, these donuts bring together comfort, sweetness, and aesthetic charm in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic jelly donut flavor with a vibrant, modern look
Soft and fluffy texture with a warm strawberry-filled center
Glossy pink glaze and sprinkles make them visually irresistible
Ideal for birthdays, brunches, tea parties, or weekend baking
Customizable with different jams or glaze colors
Easy to make at home with step-by-step guidance
A fun baking project for families or gatherings
Better than store-bought with fresher ingredients
Delivers joy and comfort in every bite
Perfectly sweet without being overly rich

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the donuts:
all-purpose flour
active dry yeast
sugar
salt
warm milk
butter, melted
egg
vanilla extract
oil for frying

For the filling:
strawberry jam or jelly

For the glaze:
powdered sugar
milk
pink food coloring
vanilla extract
pink, red, and white sprinkles

directions

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with a pinch of sugar and the active dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix and knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Cut out donut rounds using a round cutter. Transfer to a tray and let rest for 15 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Let donuts cool slightly. Fill a piping bag with strawberry jam and gently insert the tip into the side of each donut, squeezing in the filling.
To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with 2–3 tablespoons of milk, vanilla extract, and a few drops of pink food coloring until smooth.
Dip the tops of each donut into the glaze and immediately decorate with sprinkles.
Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately for a gooey, fresh treat.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10 donuts
Prep time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per donut

Variations

Jam Swap: Use raspberry, blueberry, or lemon curd instead of strawberry.
Baked Version: Bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, then fill and glaze.
Mini Donuts: Cut smaller rounds for bite-sized versions.
Color Themes: Match the glaze and sprinkles to seasonal or party colors.
Cream Filling: Swap jelly for vanilla or chocolate pastry cream for a different indulgence.
Sugar Coated: Skip the glaze and toss freshly fried donuts in cinnamon sugar.
Chocolate Glaze: Use a chocolate ganache for a rich topping.
Icing Designs: Drizzle white chocolate or use icing pens for patterns.
Stuffed & Topped: Fill with jam and top with extra glaze drizzle or a berry.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust consistency as needed.

storage/reheating

These donuts are best enjoyed the day they’re made, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. Avoid refrigerating, as it may dry out the donuts. The glaze may soften slightly over time but will still be delicious.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Bring to room temperature before shaping and frying.

What’s the best way to fill the donuts?

Use a piping bag fitted with a narrow tip or a squeeze bottle for easy, clean filling.

Can I use store-bought jam?

Absolutely. Any good-quality strawberry jam or jelly will work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the donuts from being greasy?

Ensure the oil is at a steady 350°F. Overcrowding the pan or using too cool oil can cause greasy donuts.

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, though they will have a more cake-like texture. Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.

Can I freeze the donuts?

You can freeze the unfilled, unfrosted donuts. Thaw and fill/glaze before serving for best results.

How do I get my glaze smooth and glossy?

Sift the powdered sugar and mix well with just enough milk for a pourable consistency. Dip while glaze is fresh for shine.

What if I don’t have pink food coloring?

You can use beet juice or strawberry puree in small amounts for natural color, or skip it for a white glaze.

How long does the glaze take to set?

Usually 10–15 minutes at room temperature. You can speed it up slightly by chilling.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes! Kids can help decorate with sprinkles or assist in mixing and filling the donuts (with supervision).

Conclusion

Strawberry Jelly Filled Donuts with Pink Glaze are the ultimate blend of fun, flavor, and flair. With their fluffy interior, fruity center, and candy-colored topping, they bring joy to both the palate and the eyes. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these donuts are a nostalgic and modern delight rolled into one. Serve them warm, fresh, and covered in sprinkles for a treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.