Fluffy Berry Cream Cloud Donuts are the kind of dessert that feels straight out of a dreamy bakery window. Light, pillowy donuts are fried to golden perfection, rolled in soft powdered sugar, then filled with a cloud-like mascarpone cream and a bright burst of berry jam. Every bite melts in your mouth, balancing richness with freshness in the most irresistible way.

These donuts are inspired by classic European cream-filled pastries, but with an extra-luxurious twist. The dough is tender and airy, the filling is smooth and lightly sweet, and the jam adds just enough tartness to keep things perfectly balanced. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, a holiday treat, or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, these donuts are guaranteed to impress.

While they may look bakery-level fancy, Fluffy Berry Cream Cloud Donuts are absolutely achievable at home. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a show-stopping dessert that feels celebratory and comforting all at once. Let’s dive into what makes these donuts so special and how to make them step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fluffy Berry Cream Cloud Donuts quickly become unforgettable for so many reasons:

• Ultra-Soft Dough: Enriched with eggs and butter for a tender, fluffy interior
• Creamy Cloud Filling: Mascarpone and whipped cream create a light, luxurious texture
• Bright Berry Center: Jam adds freshness and color to every bite
• Bakery-Style Result: Looks impressive but made entirely at home
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal for brunches, holidays, or celebrations
• Customizable Flavors: Easily swap jams or fillings
• Comforting Yet Elegant: A beautiful balance of indulgence and lightness

These donuts are proof that homemade desserts can feel truly special.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 2 to 2½ hours
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours

Times may vary slightly depending on room temperature and dough thickness.

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough

• 2½ cups (320 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons warm water
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 whole egg
• Oil for frying

For Coating

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

For the Cloud Cream Filling

• 1 cup heavy cream, cold
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup mascarpone or cream cheese, softened

For the Center

• ½ cup berry jam (strawberry, raspberry, or mixed berry)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, warm water, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Donuts

Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1 inch thick. Cut into rounds using a large cutter. Place on parchment paper, cover lightly, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil to 170–175°C (340–350°F). Fry donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then lightly toss in powdered sugar while still warm.

Prepare the Cloud Cream

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Add mascarpone and whip gently until thick, smooth, and cloud-like. Keep chilled until ready to use.

Fill the Donuts

Slice each donut horizontally. Pipe a generous swirl of cream inside, add a spoonful of berry jam in the center, then add a little more cream if needed. Replace the top and dust with powdered sugar.

How to Serve

• Serve slightly chilled or at cool room temperature
• Pair with coffee, espresso, or tea
• Arrange on a platter for brunch or dessert tables
• Garnish with fresh berries for an elegant touch

Additional Tips

• Oil Temperature Matters: Too hot and the donuts brown too fast; too cool and they absorb oil
• Don’t Overfill: A balanced filling keeps donuts neat and easy to eat
• Chill the Cream: Cold cream ensures the fluffiest texture
• Use a Piping Bag: Makes filling cleaner and more professional

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Berry Cloud: Add lemon zest to the cream
• Chocolate Berry: Drizzle melted chocolate inside before adding jam
• Vanilla Sugar Coating: Toss donuts in vanilla sugar instead of powdered sugar
• Different Jams: Blueberry, blackberry, or cherry all work beautifully

Storage and Make-Ahead

• Best Enjoyed Fresh: Same day for ultimate softness
• Refrigeration: Store filled donuts in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
• Unfilled Donuts: Can be stored and filled later the same day

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, but the texture will be more like a soft roll than a classic donut.

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Absolutely. Cream cheese gives a slightly tangier flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes. Refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise and fry the next day.

Conclusion

Fluffy Berry Cream Cloud Donuts are a celebration of texture, flavor, and homemade comfort. With their soft dough, airy cream filling, and vibrant berry center, they deliver bakery-quality indulgence right from your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these donuts are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression — one delicious, cloud-filled bite at a time.