Lemon Filled Doughnuts – Soft, Tangy, and Irresistibly Sweet

If you love doughnuts and adore bright, tangy flavors, Lemon Filled Doughnuts are about to become your new favorite indulgence. These soft, pillowy treats are filled with a luscious, tangy lemon curd that perfectly balances the sweet, tender dough. Each bite offers a delightful combination of citrus zing and sugary bliss that’s impossible to resist.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a special treat with tea or coffee, lemon-filled doughnuts are elegant yet approachable. Whether you make them for a weekend gathering or just to enjoy at home, these doughnuts are sure to impress both in flavor and presentation.

In this article, we’ll walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect doughnuts, and creative ways to enjoy and serve them.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Filled Doughnuts

1. Bright, Refreshing Flavor: The tartness of lemon curd balances the sweet dough, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

2. Soft, Pillowy Texture: Light and airy, yet substantial enough to hold a generous filling.

3. Versatile Treat: Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or dipped in a light glaze.

4. Perfect for Sharing: Whether plated on a brunch spread or boxed as a gift, these doughnuts are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Doughnuts:

• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Lemon Filling:

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Optional Topping:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Lemon glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Prep and Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for rising)
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 12–14 doughnuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Lemon Filling:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, butter, and cornstarch. Whisk continuously. Add egg yolks and cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

3. Shape the Doughnuts:
Roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a doughnut cutter or a glass. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.

4. Fry the Doughnuts:
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

5. Fill the Doughnuts:
Transfer lemon curd to a piping bag fitted with a small tip. Inject the lemon filling into the center of each doughnut.

6. Finish and Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze. Serve warm for the ultimate indulgence.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Filled Doughnuts

• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough lemon curd to enhance the flavor without spilling.
• Oil Temperature: Keep the oil steady at 350°F; too hot will brown the outside while leaving the inside raw.
• Cool Slightly Before Filling: Filling hot doughnuts can melt the curd and make it runny.

Serving Suggestions

Brunch Favorite: Plate with fresh berries and a cup of tea for a bright weekend treat.

Dessert Upgrade: Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a zesty dessert twist.

Gift Idea: Wrap a dozen in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a homemade gift.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Mixed Citrus: Combine orange and lemon juice for a sweeter, complex filling.
• Glazed Lemon Blueberry: Add fresh blueberries to the filling or top with a blueberry glaze.
• Mini Doughnuts: Make bite-sized doughnuts for parties or gatherings.
• Baked Option: Bake instead of fry for a lighter, easier version.

Why Lemon Filled Doughnuts Belong in Your Recipe Box

These doughnuts offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart, soft and fluffy, indulgent yet light. They’re versatile, fun to make, and guaranteed to brighten up any table. From brunches to dessert trays, Lemon Filled Doughnuts are a recipe worth keeping and sharing.

Grab your rolling pin and piping bag — this zesty, sweet treat is ready to become a new favorite.ress anyone who tries them.