Doughnuts have been a beloved treat for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. One of the most delightful variations of this sweet indulgence is the filled doughnut. But have you ever wondered what these tasty treats are called? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of filled doughnuts, exploring their history, types, and the various names they’re known by.
A Brief History of Filled Doughnuts
Filled doughnuts have their roots in traditional European pastries, such as the Polish pączki and the German Berliner. These sweet treats were typically filled with jam or custard and deep-fried to create a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. As European immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, the filled doughnut gained popularity and evolved into the variety of flavors and fillings we know and love today.
Types of Filled Doughnuts
Filled doughnuts come in a wide range of flavors and fillings, from classic jam and custard to creative concoctions like maple bacon and strawberry basil. Some popular types of filled doughnuts include:
- Cream-filled doughnuts: These doughnuts are filled with a sweet, creamy filling, often made with butter, sugar, and eggs.
- Jelly-filled doughnuts: These doughnuts are filled with a sweet, fruit-flavored jelly, often made with fruit preserves or jam.
Names of Filled Doughnuts
Filled doughnuts are known by a variety of names, depending on the region and the type of filling. Here are some common names for filled doughnuts:
International Names
Filled doughnuts are enjoyed around the world, and each country has its own unique names for these sweet treats. Some international names for filled doughnuts include:
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Poland | Pączki |
| Germany | Berliner |
| Italy | Bombolone |
Regional Names in the United States
In the United States, filled doughnuts are known by a variety of names, depending on the region. Some regional names for filled doughnuts include:
New England
In New England, filled doughnuts are often called “jelly sticks” or “cream sticks.” These doughnuts are typically filled with a sweet, creamy filling or a fruit-flavored jelly.
Midwest
In the Midwest, filled doughnuts are often called “long johns” or “filled bars.” These doughnuts are typically filled with a sweet, creamy filling and topped with a layer of chocolate or glaze.
Conclusion
Filled doughnuts are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of flavors and fillings. Whether you call them cream-filled, jelly-filled, or something else entirely, these sweet indulgences are sure to bring a smile to your face. So next time you’re at the doughnut shop, be sure to try a filled doughnut and experience the sweet delight for yourself.
How to Make Filled Doughnuts at Home
Making filled doughnuts at home is a fun and rewarding process that requires just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s a recipe for homemade filled doughnuts:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Filling of your choice (e.g. jam, custard, Nutella)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and yeast.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
- Once the oil is hot, use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop the dough into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Once the doughnuts are cool enough to handle, use a pastry bag or a knife to fill them with your chosen filling.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your filled doughnuts to the next level:
- Use a variety of fillings, such as jam, custard, Nutella, or peanut butter, to create unique and delicious flavor combinations.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze to the top of the doughnuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or oat flour, to create a nutty and wholesome flavor.
- Try adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough to balance out the sweetness and add depth to the flavor.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a wide range of delicious filled doughnuts that are sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try and see what kind of sweet creations you can come up with?
What are filled doughnuts?
Filled doughnuts are a type of doughnut that has a filling inside, typically made of sweet ingredients such as jam, custard, or chocolate. They are usually made by injecting the filling into the doughnut after it has been fried or baked. Filled doughnuts can be found in various flavors and fillings, making them a popular treat among doughnut enthusiasts.
Filled doughnuts are often associated with traditional doughnut shops and bakeries, where they are made fresh daily. However, many modern bakeries and cafes have also started to offer creative and unique filled doughnut flavors, such as maple bacon or strawberry basil. Whether you prefer classic or innovative flavors, filled doughnuts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What are the different types of filled doughnuts?
There are several types of filled doughnuts, each with its own unique characteristics and fillings. Some popular types of filled doughnuts include jelly-filled doughnuts, which are filled with fruit jam or jelly; cream-filled doughnuts, which are filled with a sweet custard or cream; and chocolate-filled doughnuts, which are filled with melted chocolate.
Other types of filled doughnuts include Boston cream doughnuts, which are filled with a rich custard and topped with chocolate; and Long Johns, which are filled with custard or cream and topped with a glaze. There are also many creative and unique filled doughnut flavors available, such as doughnuts filled with Nutella or peanut butter.
What is the history of filled doughnuts?
The history of filled doughnuts dates back to the early 20th century, when doughnut shops and bakeries began to experiment with fillings. One of the earliest recorded types of filled doughnuts is the jelly-filled doughnut, which was popularized by the Salvation Army during World War I.
The filled doughnut gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, where it became a staple in many doughnut shops and bakeries. Today, filled doughnuts are enjoyed all over the world, with many countries and cultures offering their own unique take on this sweet treat.
How are filled doughnuts made?
Filled doughnuts are typically made by first frying or baking the doughnut, and then injecting the filling into the doughnut using a pastry bag or a specialized filling machine. The filling is usually made separately, using ingredients such as sugar, eggs, and flavorings.
The doughnut is then filled with the desired amount of filling, and may be topped with a glaze or other toppings. Some bakeries and doughnut shops may also use a specialized machine to fill the doughnuts, which can help to ensure consistency and quality.
What are some popular filled doughnut flavors?
Some popular filled doughnut flavors include classic jelly-filled doughnuts, which are filled with fruit jam or jelly; Boston cream doughnuts, which are filled with a rich custard and topped with chocolate; and chocolate-filled doughnuts, which are filled with melted chocolate.
Other popular filled doughnut flavors include strawberry-filled doughnuts, which are filled with a sweet strawberry jam; and raspberry-filled doughnuts, which are filled with a tart raspberry jam. Many bakeries and doughnut shops also offer creative and unique filled doughnut flavors, such as doughnuts filled with Nutella or peanut butter.
Can I make filled doughnuts at home?
Yes, you can make filled doughnuts at home, using a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. To make filled doughnuts, you will need a doughnut pan, a pastry bag, and a filling of your choice.
You can make the doughnut dough from scratch, using ingredients such as flour, sugar, and yeast, or you can use a store-bought doughnut mix. Once the doughnuts are fried or baked, you can fill them with your desired filling, using a pastry bag or a spoon. Many recipes and tutorials are available online to help guide you through the process.
Are filled doughnuts a healthy snack option?
Filled doughnuts are typically high in sugar and calories, making them a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. While they can be a delicious and satisfying snack, they are not a healthy option for everyday consumption.
However, some bakeries and doughnut shops are now offering healthier filled doughnut options, such as doughnuts made with whole wheat flour or filled with fruit or nuts. If you are looking for a healthier snack option, you may want to consider these alternatives.