Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic creme brulee and fluffy donuts with this irresistible recipe. These Creme Brulee Donuts are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your guests with their unique flavor and creamy filling. Follow the detailed instructions below to create these delectable treats at home.
Ingredients
For the Donuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
For the Custard Filling
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Brulee Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Filling
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick. Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and whisk until smooth.
- Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until chilled.
Step 2: Make the Donut Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Fry the Donuts
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Shape the Donuts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll the scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
- Fry the Donuts: Carefully place a few donuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 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.
Step 4: Fill and Brulee the Donuts
- Fill the Donuts: Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, use a small knife or a piping nozzle to create a hole in the side of each donut. Fill a piping bag fitted with a small round tip with the chilled custard filling. Pipe the custard into each donut until filled.
- Brulee the Tops: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on the top of each filled donut. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a hard, crispy shell. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
Tips for Perfect Creme Brulee Donuts
- Custard Consistency: Make sure the custard is thick enough to hold its shape when piped. If it’s too runny, it may seep out of the donuts.
- Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure the donuts cook evenly. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through.
- Sugar Caramelization: Use a steady hand when caramelizing the sugar to avoid burning. Move the torch in a circular motion to evenly melt the sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. This will result in a slightly different texture but still delicious.
How should I store leftover donuts?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best texture, it’s recommended to consume them fresh.
Can I make the custard filling ahead of time?
Yes, the custard filling can be made up to 2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated until you are ready to fill the donuts.
What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for caramelizing the sugar?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the filled and sugared donuts under a broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sugar. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I use different fillings for the donuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings such as chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or whipped cream to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Creme Brulee Donuts combine the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy custard of creme brulee and the soft, fluffy texture of a donut. This unique and decadent treat is perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. With a bit of effort and these detailed instructions, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress and delight everyone who tries it. Enjoy!