1. Prepare the Dough:
Activate Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, egg, and the frothy yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
Add Butter: Add the softened butter and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let It Rise: Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Make the Custard Filling:
Whisk Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg, yolk, sugar, flour (or cornstarch), and salt until smooth.
Heat Milk: Heat the milk until warm but not boiling. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
Cook the Custard: Place the mixture over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool completely.
3. Shape and Fry the Donuts:
Roll the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
Cut the Donuts: Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches) to cut out donuts. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry Donuts: Fry the donuts in batches for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Fill the Donuts:
Fill the Custard: Transfer the cooled custard into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Poke a hole into the side of each donut and fill it generously with the custard.
5. Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar or glaze as desired and enjoy warm!
Serving Suggestions:
Coat with cinnamon sugar: For a fun twist, roll the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
Chocolate glaze: Dip the tops in melted chocolate and top with sprinkles for a festive look.
Cooking Tips:
Keep oil temperature steady: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature for evenly cooked donuts.
Custard consistency: If the custard is too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, cook a bit longer until it thickens.
Nutritional Benefits:
Protein boost: The eggs in the custard provide protein, while milk adds calcium.
Less greasy: Making these at home allows you to control the frying process, resulting in less oily donuts compared to store-bought.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
Nut-free: Naturally free of nuts, but always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Facts (per donut, approximate):
Calories: 320
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 10g
Storage:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled donuts in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Thaw and fill when ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Deliciously soft: These donuts are perfectly fluffy with a creamy custard center.
Homemade charm: No preservatives, just pure, delicious ingredients.
Versatile: Easily customize the filling with chocolate, jam, or your favorite cream.
Conclusion:
These custard-filled donuts are a must-try for any dessert lover. With a tender dough and luscious custard, they make every bite feel like a special treat. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!), these donuts will surely become a favorite in your home!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, bake at 350°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use the same amount of instant yeast without needing to activate it first.
How do I know if the oil is hot enough?
Use a thermometer or drop a small piece of dough; it should sizzle and rise to the top.
Can I make the custard in advance?
Yes, prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
What other fillings can I use?
Try jam, Nutella, or whipped cream for different flavors.
Can I use a dairy-free milk?
Yes, almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk.
Why is my dough not rising?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and your dough is in a warm, draft-free environment.
Can I make mini donuts with this recipe?
Absolutely! Just cut smaller circles and adjust frying time as needed.
How do I prevent the donuts from being too oily?
Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
What is the best way to store leftover custard?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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