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Custard Donuts

Custard Donuts Recipe

Custard Donuts are soft, fluffy donuts filled with a rich and creamy custard, then coated with sugar for an irresistible treat. These delicious homemade donuts are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack. The combination of light, airy dough and sweet vanilla custard makes these donuts a favorite for anyone with a sweet tooth. This step-by-step recipe will guide you through making these delightful filled donuts from scratch, ensuring they come out perfect every time.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Donuts

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Custard Filling

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For Coating

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Make the Donuts

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk, eggs, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can knead the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 4-5 minutes.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Cut the Donuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out the donuts. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  6. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry the Donuts: Fry the donuts in batches, about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Custard Filling

  1. Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
  2. Mix the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  3. Cook the Custard: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
  4. Cool the Custard: Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and let it cool completely.

Fill and Coat the Donuts

  1. Fill the Donuts: Once the donuts have cooled, use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to fill each donut with custard.
  2. Coat with Sugar: Roll the filled donuts in granulated sugar until evenly coated.

Tips for Perfect Custard Donuts

  • Temperature Matters: Ensure the milk and water are warm but not too hot to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Oil: Fry the donuts in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to greasy donuts.
  • Let the Custard Cool: Make sure the custard is completely cooled before filling the donuts to prevent it from becoming too runny.

Recipe Variations

  • Chocolate Custard Donuts: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolate version.
  • Jelly-Filled Donuts: Substitute the custard with your favorite fruit jam or jelly for a classic jelly donut.
  • Vanilla Glaze: Instead of rolling in sugar, dip the donuts in a vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and cutting the donuts.

Q: How do I store leftover donuts?
A: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh.

Q: Can I freeze custard donuts?
A: It’s best to freeze the donuts without the custard filling. Once thawed, fill them with freshly made custard.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Coffee: Enjoy these custard donuts with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
  • With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries for a light contrast to the rich custard filling.
  • As a Dessert: Top with a dusting of powdered sugar and serve as a dessert after dinner.

Custard Donuts are a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft, fluffy dough, creamy custard filling, and sweet sugar coating, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast or as a dessert, these donuts are always a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!

These Custard Donuts are easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a different filling or a glaze topping, these donuts are sure to impress. Share them with friends and family, and watch them disappear in no time!