Custard-Filled Donuts

Introduction

Few things can compare to the joy of biting into a soft, pillowy donut filled with creamy custard. These Custard-Filled Donuts combine the richness of smooth vanilla custard with the golden crispiness of freshly fried dough, all rolled in sugar for that irresistible finish. They are indulgent yet comforting, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat. Making them at home may seem like a bakery-level task, but with the right steps, you can achieve perfect results in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• ½ tsp salt

  ADVERTISEMENT

• 1 cup warm milk

• 2 large eggs

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk

  ADVERTISEMENT

• 4 large egg yolks

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

  ADVERTISEMENT

For Coating:

• 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.

3. Add eggs, butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

   ADVERTISEMENT

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

2. Shaping the Donuts

1. Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.

2. Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass.

3. Place the dough rounds on parchment paper, cover lightly, and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes.

3. Frying the Donuts

1. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry each donut for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

3. Remove and drain on paper towels. Roll while still warm in granulated sugar.

4. Preparing the Custard

1. In a saucepan, heat milk until steaming (not boiling).

2. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until pale and thick.

   ADVERTISEMENT

3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.

4. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened.

5. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Allow to cool completely before using.

5. Filling the Donuts

1. Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, fill each donut with custard by inserting the tip into the side.

2. Fill generously until custard slightly peeks out.

Conclusion

Custard-Filled Donuts are a bakery classic that you can now make at home with ease. The combination of soft, airy dough, rich custard, and a sugar coating creates a heavenly balance of textures and flavors. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings, tea time, or simply to treat yourself, these donuts are bound to impress anyone who tastes them. Once you try making them, they may become a beloved homemade tradition.