There’s something undeniably enchanting about the sound of batter bubbling in hot oil, isn’t there? My latest obsession, the Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe, captures that magic in every fluffy bite. With a perfectly crispy shell and an airy, whipped cream center, these donuts transform any moment into a celebration. Not only are they quick to whip up with simple pantry staples, but they’re also easily customizable for your unique cravings—whether you’re feeling fruity, chocolatey, or even adventurous with matcha! Plus, options for dairy-free and vegan versions mean everyone can indulge without missing out. So, are you ready to treat yourself to this delightful homemade comfort? Let’s dive into these irresistible donuts together!

Why Are Korean Milk Cream Donuts Irresistible?
Fluffy Texture: Each bite is a cloud-like experience, combining a crispy exterior with a light and airy center that promises melt-in-your-mouth bliss.
Customizable Fillings: Whether you crave fruity goodness, rich chocolate, or even exotic matcha, the filling options let your creativity shine!
Quick & Easy: Perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks, this recipe uses pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
Dairy-Free & Vegan Options: Adaptable to various dietary needs, you can easily substitute ingredients, ensuring no one misses out on this delicious treat.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for family gatherings or casual brunches, these donuts are sure to impress and satisfy guests of all ages.
Serve With Love: Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon indulgence that feels just right. After trying these, don’t miss out on the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes for another sweet treat!
Korean Milk Cream Donut Ingredients
• Prepare to create doughy magic with this Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe!
For the Donut Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides a tender structure; use fresh for best results.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough; adjust to taste for your perfect sweetness.
- Instant Yeast – Activates the dough for rise; ensure it’s fresh for proper rising.
- Lukewarm Milk – Moistens the dough and activates yeast; preferably whole milk or a dairy-free alternative at room temperature.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds richness; can be substituted with unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
For the Cream Filling
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Forms the creamy filling; can use homemade or store-bought.
- Condensed Milk – Optional addition for extra sweetness in the filling; enhances the flavor profile.
For Dusting
- Powdered Sugar – For dusting, adding visual appeal and sweetness; optional but recommended for serving.
Dive into this delightful recipe, and mix and match the ingredients for a truly memorable treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Ensure the milk is warm but not hot, as this will activate the yeast effectively. Set aside for a moment as you prepare the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast together. Sift these dry ingredients to aerate the flour, which helps create a light and fluffy texture in your Korean Milk Cream Donuts. This mixture will come together as you combine it with the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough appears too dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. This process should take around 2–3 minutes to ensure the ingredients are just combined.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough into an oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels puffy and has risen significantly, giving off a lovely yeasty aroma.
Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick and use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to cut out your donuts. Place the cut donuts on parchment paper, allowing some space between each piece to let them rise again.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep-fryer, heat oil to between 170°C and 180°C (340°F to 360°F). Use a thermometer to check the temperature, as maintaining consistent heat is crucial for getting that perfect crispy outer layer while ensuring the donuts cook through.
Step 7: Fry the Donuts
Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying them in small batches for about 2–3 minutes per side. Watch for a golden-brown color, indicating they are done. Once they reach that beautiful hue, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels, allowing excess oil to soak off.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Filling
While your donuts are cooling, grab a mixing bowl and whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. The cream should be fluffy and hold its shape well. This velvety cream will be the star filling of your Korean Milk Cream Donuts.
Step 9: Assemble the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled completely, cut them in half with a sharp knife. Spread a little condensed milk inside if desired, then generously fill each donut with whipped cream, ensuring every bite is a delicious surprise. Finally, dust the donuts with powdered sugar for that classic sweet finish before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Korean Milk Cream Donuts
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh yeast and flour for the Korean Milk Cream Donut recipe to ensure a proper rise and delightful texture.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil temperature between 170-180°C (340-360°F). Too hot can scorch the donuts, while too cool will lead to greasy ones.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough for that fluffy result.
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Cool Before Filling: Allow the donuts to cool slightly after frying to help the whipped cream hold its shape. This prevents a soggy filling.
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Customize with Confidence: Experiment with different fillings and toppings! Whether you choose coconut cream or mashed fruit, embrace your creativity for a personal touch.
How to Store and Freeze Korean Milk Cream Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If not consumed within a day, refrigerate the donuts for up to 2 days. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped donuts for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a delightful treat when cravings strike.
Reheating: To restore their fluffy texture, reheat thawed donuts in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5–7 minutes before filling.
Make Ahead Options
These Korean Milk Cream Donuts are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delightful taste of homemade goodness with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the donut dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator after the first rise. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying. Additionally, you can whip the cream filling and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the donuts, fill them, and dust with powdered sugar for that fresh taste. By prepping in advance, you’ll have restaurant-quality Korean Milk Cream Donuts ready to impress without the fuss!
What to Serve with Korean Milk Cream Donuts?
The fluffy, sweet delight of these donuts creates the perfect opportunity for a cozy meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
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Rich Coffee: A warm, bold cup of coffee beautifully balances the sweetness, enhancing every delightful bite of your donut.
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Refreshing Fruit Juice: Pair these donuts with a zesty orange or apple juice for a refreshing contrast that lifts your spirits.
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Decadent Hot Chocolate: For a sweet treat extravaganza, serve alongside a rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a truly luxurious experience.
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Fluffy Pancakes: Add a stack of fluffy pancakes to your table for a brunch extravaganza that guests will adore, including various toppings.
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Chai Tea: A spiced chai pairs wonderfully with the sweet and creamy goodness of the donuts, warming your heart and soul.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve the donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a heavenly bite of flavors.
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Classic Milkshakes: Blend a chocolate or strawberry milkshake to add a nostalgic touch, making each bite more delightful.
Embrace the joy of sharing! These pairings will elevate your experience, creating unforgettable moments filled with warmth and love.
Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists that will elevate your Korean Milk Cream Donuts to new heights!
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond milk for a fully dairy-free delight.
This swap allows everyone to enjoy a light, fluffy donut without sacrificing taste! -
Vegan Delight: Replace the egg with unsweetened applesauce to create a vegan version that’s deliciously fluffy.
You won’t even notice the difference, making it perfect for plant-based cravings! -
Chocolate Lovers: Mix cocoa powder into the whipped cream filling for a rich, chocolaty indulgence.
A chocolate-infused experience will definitely please those with a sweet tooth! -
Tropical Twist: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a heavenly tropical flavor that transports you to the islands.
This option adds a luscious texture that harmonizes beautifully with the donuts. -
Spiced Variation: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the donut dough for a warm spice that enhances every bite.
Who can resist the cozy aroma of spiced donuts fresh from the fryer? -
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch.
These textures will surprise your taste buds and take your donut experience to the next level! -
Fruity Goodness: Fill the donuts with a fruit jam or puree, such as strawberry or raspberry, for a bright flavor contrast.
It creates a delightful balance between sweet and tart that’s simply refreshing! -
Matcha Infusion: Use matcha powder in either the filling or the dough for a trendy twist that adds color and a unique flavor.
This vibrant option will not only look stunning but will also delight matcha enthusiasts!
Once you’ve explored these variations, you might also enjoy trying these Cinnamon Roll Pancakes for another sweet adventure in your kitchen!

Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe, check the expiration dates on your yeast, flour, and any other perishables. Instant yeast should be active when it bubbles shortly after being mixed with warm liquid. Use fresh, creamy milk without an off smell, and make sure your butter is fresh and unsalted for the richest flavor.
How should I store leftover donuts?
Very well! Keep your delicious leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For extended freshness, you may refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Just remember to wrap them properly to prevent drying out; a simple layer of plastic wrap or a closed container works wonders.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Of course! For longer storage, you can freeze your Korean Milk Cream Donuts. Individually wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5–7 minutes to restore their fluffy texture.
What can I substitute for dairy in this recipe?
Absolutely, there are plenty of dairy-free options! To make your Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe friendly for dairy-free diets, substitute lukewarm milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any preferred plant-based milk. For a vegan option, replace the egg with unsweetened applesauce (approximately 1/4 cup) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Why are my donuts dense instead of fluffy?
Very frustrating, right? A common culprit for dense donuts is overmixing your dough—be sure to mix just until combined. Also, verify that your yeast is fresh and active; if it’s expired, it won’t rise properly. Lastly, make sure you’re allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment for about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving it time to puff up beautifully!

Irresistibly Fluffy Korean Milk Cream Donut Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast together. Sift these dry ingredients together.
- Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough into an oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Gently punch the dough down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick and cut out your donuts.
- Heat oil in a pot or deep-fryer to between 170°C and 180°C (340°F to 360°F).
- Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying them in small batches for about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form for the filling.
- Once the donuts have cooled, cut them in half, fill with whipped cream, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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