As I bask in the warm aroma of freshly frying dough, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven of tasty memories. Today, I’m crafting delightful Matcha Cream Filled Donuts, a playful twist on the classic treat. With each fluffy bite, you’ll savor the perfect harmony between the earthy essence of matcha and a rich, sweet pastry cream that’s utterly irresistible. These donuts are not only a stunning addition to your brunch table but also surprisingly light enough to enjoy any time of day—perfect for satisfying cravings without the heaviness. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a sweet moment with loved ones, these vibrant green gems will surely spark joy. Ready to whip up a batch that will have everyone’s taste buds dancing? Let’s dive into the delicious process together!
Why are Matcha Cream Filled Donuts special?
Unique Flavor Combination: These donuts marry the earthy taste of matcha with a sweet, creamy filling, creating an unforgettable treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for brunch or a sweet snack, these donuts shine at any gathering, bringing a touch of wow-factor to your table.
Light Yet Indulgent: Enjoy the fluffy texture and rich cream without feeling weighed down—perfect for when you want something sweet without the guilt.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with fillings or toppings; try pairing them with an Avocado Cream Sauce for a refreshing twist!
Impressive Presentation: Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, these vibrant green donuts are as visually enticing as they are delicious, ensuring they’re a hit visually and taste-wise!
Treat yourself to these delightful creations and experience the joy they bring to your kitchen!
Matcha Cream Filled Donuts Ingredients
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For the Donut Dough
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and tenderness; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
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Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; use coconut sugar for a less refined alternative.
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Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; instant yeast can be used for quicker preparation.
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Whole Milk (warm) – Hydrates the dough and contributes to a tender texture; almond milk can be a non-dairy substitute.
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Large Eggs – Provides richness and helps with binding; egg replacement may be used for a vegan version.
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Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor and richness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
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Salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
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For the Matcha Pastry Cream
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Whole Milk (for cream) – The base for the creamy filling; ensures a rich texture.
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Granulated Sugar (for cream) – Sweetens the filling to balance the matcha’s earthiness.
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Matcha Green Tea Powder – Provides the signature flavor; ensure it’s culinary grade for the best experience.
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Cornstarch – Thickens the pastry cream; can be swapped with arrowroot powder if preferred.
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Large Egg Yolks – Enriches the cream; essential for traditional pastry cream consistency.
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Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor that complements the matcha beautifully.
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For Frying and Finishing
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Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Necessary for frying; can use canola or peanut oil.
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Powdered Sugar (for dusting) – The final touch for sweetness and visual appeal that makes these Matcha Cream Filled Donuts truly stand out!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Cream Filled Donuts
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of warm milk with 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. Next, add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when you can gently poke it, and the indentation stays. This is the start of creating fluffy Matcha Cream Filled Donuts!
Step 3: Make Matcha Cream
While the dough rises, prepare the matcha pastry cream. Heat 2 cups of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of matcha green tea powder, and 1/4 cup of cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture, then return it to the heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes until thickened. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and set aside to cool.
Step 4: Shape Donuts
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out donut shapes, transferring them to a parchment-lined tray. Let the shaped donuts rise for another 30 minutes, during which they will puff up beautifully, enhancing their light, airy texture.
Step 5: Fry Donuts
Heat vegetable oil in a deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and beautifully puffed. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil, draining them on paper towels to remove excess oil—this step is essential for those perfect Matcha Cream Filled Donuts!
Step 6: Fill and Serve
Once the donuts are completely cool, use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to fill each donut with the chilled matcha cream. Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch. These delightful Matcha Cream Filled Donuts are now ready to impress your family and friends, so dig in!
Expert Tips for Making Matcha Cream Filled Donuts
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Accurate Measurements: Always weigh your flour for a consistent dough texture. Too much flour can lead to dense donuts instead of the fluffy Matcha Cream Filled Donuts you desire.
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Yeast Activation: Ensure your warm milk is at the right temperature (about 110°F/43°C) for properly activating the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, resulting in an unrisen dough.
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Cooling Donuts: Let your donuts cool completely before filling them with matcha cream. This prevents the cream from melting and keeps your filling distinct and delicious.
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Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C). Frying at too low a temperature can lead to greasy donuts, while too high can burn them.
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Piping Technique: When filling donuts, create a small hole for the piping tip to ensure even filling. This way, you avoid over-filling and collapsing your Matcha Cream Filled Donuts.
Matcha Cream Filled Donuts Variations
Feel free to customize these delicious donuts to match your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delightful treat everyone can enjoy. The texture might slightly differ, but they will still be just as tasty!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and replace butter with vegan butter. You can still achieve a creamy and rich donut experience without the dairy.
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Sweetener Swap: Got a sweet tooth but looking for a healthier option? Try coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a hint of caramel flavor that complements the matcha beautifully.
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More Matcha: For matcha lovers craving even bolder flavor, increase the amount of matcha powder in the cream filling. A little extra will amplify that earthy essence with every bite!
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Chocolate Cream Filling: Switch things up with a chocolate pastry cream filling. Simply melt some dark chocolate into your standard pastry cream for a decadent surprise inside!
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Fruit-Infused Cream: Want to add a fruity twist? Mix in some pureed fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries into your pastry cream for a refreshing pop of flavor.
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Baked Donuts: Instead of frying, bake these donuts for a lighter option. Brush with melted butter before dusting with powdered sugar for that indulgent touch.
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Up the Spice: Add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist. This lovely infusion pairs exceptionally well with the matcha flavor!
With these variations, you’re bound to find a version of Matcha Cream Filled Donuts that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Enjoy exploring, and for a fun pairing, consider serving them alongside a soothing hot matcha latte or even a slice of Strawberry Matcha Basque for a delightful flavor adventure!
What to Serve with Matcha Cream Filled Donuts
Experience a delightful brunch or dessert spread by pairing your irresistible creations with these complementary dishes that elevate your matcha-filled delights.
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Hot Matcha Latte:
The smooth, earthy notes of matcha in a warm latte mirror the flavors in the donuts and create a cohesive experience. -
Iced Coffee:
A refreshing iced coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweet, cream-filled donuts, making for a satisfying and balanced afternoon pick-me-up. -
Fresh Berries:
Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries add bursts of freshness and acidity that cut through the richness of the donuts, brightening each bite. -
Whipped Cream:
A light dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the dense pastry filling and adds an airy texture to every bite. -
Coconut Macaroons:
These chewy, sweet treats bring tropical flavors that enhance the matcha’s earthiness, making dessert time even more indulgent. -
Chocolaty Drizzle:
A light drizzle of dark chocolate ganache offers a decadent contrast, creating a delightful harmony of flavors that draws everyone in. -
Fruit Salad:
A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings lightness and freshness to your plate, balancing out the sweet and creamy donuts for a fuller meal experience.
Consider these options to craft a vibrant buffet that will wow your guests and make your Matcha Cream Filled Donuts the star of the show!
How to Store and Freeze Matcha Cream Filled Donuts
- Fridge: Store filled donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and texture, ensuring they don’t dry out.
- Freezer: Unfilled donuts can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat unfilled donuts in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar again for that fresh-baked look!
- Avoid Moisture: If storing filled donuts, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture, which can make them soggy and less enjoyable.
Make Ahead Options
These Matcha Cream Filled Donuts are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time while enjoying a delicious treat! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix it, let it rise, and then refrigerate until ready to shape and fry. The matcha pastry cream can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just cover it tightly and keep it chilled to maintain its luscious texture. When it’s time to enjoy, take the dough out of the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and follow the frying instructions. You’ll still achieve that incredible fluffiness and rich creaminess with minimal effort!
Matcha Cream Filled Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my matcha is fresh?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, make sure your matcha powder is bright green and has a sweet aroma. If it appears dull or has a musty smell, it’s likely past its prime.
What’s the best way to store my filled Matcha Cream Filled Donuts?
Store filled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness. To avoid sogginess, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.
Can I freeze Matcha Cream Filled Donuts?
Certainly! Unfilled donuts can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes!
What can I do if my donuts turn out dense?
Very! Dense donuts could be due to too much flour or inadequate yeast activation. Always weigh your flour for precision and make sure the milk used to activate the yeast is warm enough (about 110°F or 43°C) but not hot. If you feel there’s too much flour, gently fold the dough rather than kneading it too forcefully.
Are Matcha Cream Filled Donuts suitable for vegans?
Of course! You can easily adapt this recipe. Replace the eggs with a suitable egg substitute and use almond milk instead of whole milk. Vegan butter can replace the unsalted butter, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful treats!
Can I use a different filling instead of matcha cream?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with fillings. Chocolate pastry cream or fruit-infused creams are delicious alternatives that will add a unique twist to your Matcha Cream Filled Donuts!
Matcha Cream Filled Donuts That Will Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of warm milk with 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes, or until frothy. Then add ingredients for the dough and mix until a sticky dough forms, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Transfer the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the matcha pastry cream by heating 2 cups of milk, then whisking egg yolks with sugar, matcha powder, and cornstarch. Gradually whisk hot milk into the egg mixture, then cook until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract.
- After dough rises, gently punch it down, roll it out, and cut into donut shapes. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F and fry the donuts in batches until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Once cool, fill each donut with matcha cream using a piping bag and dust with powdered sugar.
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