Irresistible Boston Cream Doughnuts Recipe 😋🤍🍩
If you’re craving the perfect doughnut filled with luscious vanilla pudding and topped with rich chocolate ganache, look no further than these Boston Cream Doughnuts. They are fluffy, creamy, and chocolatey — the ultimate indulgence that’s sure to impress at any breakfast or brunch gathering! Homemade doughnuts might seem intimidating, but with this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be enjoying bakery-quality treats right from your kitchen.
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)
- 1 cup vanilla pudding (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup chocolate ganache (homemade or store-bought)
👩🍳 Directions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast and ensures your doughnuts will be light and fluffy.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Once well combined, add the frothy yeast mixture and stir.
3. Add the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing as you go. You should end up with a soft, slightly sticky dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a bit more flour. The kneading process is key for a tender and airy doughnut.
5. Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This proofing step allows the dough to develop air pockets, making your doughnuts perfectly light and fluffy.
6. Shape the Doughnuts
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter (or a round cookie cutter) to cut out doughnut shapes. Place the cut doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
7. Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough by using a thermometer or dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
8. Fry the Doughnuts
Carefully fry the doughnuts, a few at a time, until golden brown on each side, about 1-2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
9. Fill with Vanilla Pudding
Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a long, narrow tip to fill each doughnut with vanilla pudding. Insert the tip into the side of the doughnut and squeeze until the center is filled with creamy goodness.
10. Top with Chocolate Ganache
Dip the top of each doughnut into a bowl of warm chocolate ganache, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the doughnuts on a wire rack to let the ganache set.
🍩 Tips for Perfect Boston Cream Doughnuts:
- Check the Oil Temperature: Too hot, and the doughnuts will burn on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. Too cool, and they’ll soak up too much oil. A thermometer is helpful here.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the doughnuts with pudding, as they can burst. A tablespoon of filling should be plenty.
- Reheat the Ganache: If your ganache starts to harden while you’re dipping the doughnuts, just reheat it gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I make the doughnuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. The next day, simply let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
2. What can I use if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, you can use a large round cookie cutter and a smaller one to cut out the center hole. In a pinch, a cup and bottle cap can also work!
3. Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, for a healthier alternative, you can bake the doughnuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. However, frying will give them that classic doughnut texture.
4. Can I use store-bought pudding and ganache?
Absolutely! Store-bought vanilla pudding and chocolate ganache work just as well, saving you time while still delivering delicious results.
5. How do I store leftover doughnuts?
Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
These Irresistible Boston Cream Doughnuts are the perfect balance of fluffy dough, creamy filling, and rich chocolate topping. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone! Enjoy them fresh, and prepare to make them again and again! 😍🍩