Name: BEST Custard Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups bread flour; 1 large egg ((room temperature)); 1/2 cup milk ((warm)); 2 tablespoons milk ((warm)); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter ((room temperature)); 5 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 envelope instant yeast ((7 grams)); 3 egg yolks egg yolks ((room temperature)); 1 1/4 cup milk; 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 tablespoons granulated sugar; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 pinch salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the fluffy texture of a donut with the rich creaminess of custard, you’ve come to the right place. The BEST Custard Donuts Recipe is not just an indulgence; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these donuts are sure to impress. With a warm, pillowy dough and a luscious custard filling, they are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Reasons to Love BEST Custard Donuts Recipe

There are countless reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet, creamy custard and soft donut dough creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Perfectly Soft Texture: These donuts are fluffy and light, yet satisfyingly rich thanks to the custard filling.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different flavors for the custard or toppings to suit your preferences.
Homemade Goodness: There’s something special about making treats from scratch, and these donuts are no exception!
Great for Sharing: They make an excellent treat for family gatherings, brunches, or just because you deserve a little something sweet.

What Goes Into BEST Custard Donuts Recipe

Creating these delightful donuts requires a few key ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen:

2 1/4 cups bread flour
1 large egg (room temperature)
1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons milk (warm)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
5 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 envelope instant yeast (7 grams)
3 egg yolks (room temperature)
1 1/4 cup milk
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment at a Glance

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for making the custard smooth.
Rolling Pin: To roll out your donut dough.
Donut Cutter: For shaping your donuts.
Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: To cook the donuts to golden perfection.
Cooling Rack: To let the donuts cool after frying.

Cooking BEST Custard Donuts Recipe: The Process

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these delectable donuts.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix in the Ingredients

Add the bread flour, room temperature egg, room temperature butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to incorporate everything fully.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Make the Custard Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare your custard filling. In a saucepan, combine 1 1/4 cups of milk, 4 tablespoons of sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter, 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk over medium heat until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove it from heat and allow it to cool.

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out your donuts. Place them on a floured baking sheet and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

In a deep frying pan or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Fill the Donuts

Once the donuts have cooled, use a piping bag or a small pastry tip to fill them with the custard. You can also cut them in half and spread the custard for an easier approach.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar or serve them plain. Either way, they are sure to be a hit!

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you find yourself short on ingredients or looking to make substitutions, consider the following:

Milk: You can use any non-dairy milk as a substitute.
Butter: Coconut oil can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Eggs: For a vegan option, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement.
Granulated Sugar: You can swap with coconut sugar or honey, adjusting the quantity as needed.

Notes on Ingredients

Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results; this helps with the mixing and rising process. Fresh yeast is key for fluffy donuts, so check the expiration date on your instant yeast to ensure it’s active.

How to Store & Reheat

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to two days. If you need to reheat them, a quick spin in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will do the trick, keeping them soft and enjoyable.

Handy Q&A

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before proceeding with shaping and frying.

What if my custard filling doesn’t thicken?

If your custard doesn’t thicken, ensure you’re cooking it on medium heat and whisking continuously. If it still doesn’t reach the desired consistency, you can whisk in a bit more flour and cook it for a minute longer.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes! You can freeze the unfilled donuts after frying. Just ensure they are completely cool before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, allow them to thaw and then fill with custard before serving.

What can I serve with these donuts?

These donuts pair wonderfully with homemade whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also consider serving them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

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Save & Share

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! The BEST Custard Donuts Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, and sharing it allows others to enjoy the magic of homemade donuts.

The joy of making these donuts lies not only in the final product but also in the process of bringing flavors together in your own kitchen. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create something delicious!