Heavenly Cream Delight Donuts: A Modern Twist on an Irresistible Classic

Indulge in the ultimate fusion of textures and flavors with Heavenly Cream Delight Donuts. These golden pastries boast a pillowy, airy interior encased in a crisp, caramelized sugar shell. Inspired by the elegant crème brûlée but crafted with a playful twist, these donuts will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Perfect for weekend brunches, celebrations, or whenever you need a touch of decadence, this recipe brings together the artistry of baking with the luxurious taste of custard.

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough:

• Flour: 360g (All-purpose; adjust quantity for desired texture: 500g for firmer, 270g for softer)
• Instant Yeast: 7g
• Sugar: 50g
• Salt: 5g
• Eggs: 2 large
• Butter: 80g (Unsalted, softened)
• Warm Milk or Water: 120ml (Choose milk for richness or water for a lighter texture)
• Optional Additions:
  • Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon for a citrusy hint
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for added depth

For the Custard Filling:

• Egg Yolks: 4 large
• Sugar: 60g
• Cornstarch: 30g
• Milk: 500ml (Whole milk recommended)
• Vanilla Bean or Extract: 1 bean (split) or 2 teaspoons extract

For the Caramelized Sugar Topping:

• Sugar: 100g (For sprinkling and caramelizing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Donut Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Incorporate the eggs and gently warm milk or water. Mix and knead the ingredients until the dough starts to form a cohesive ball.
3. Gradually incorporate the softened butter and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a mixer).
4. If desired, mix in the lemon zest or vanilla extract for additional flavor.
5. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1-2 hours).

Step 2: Shape and Fry the Donuts

1. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1-inch thickness.
2. Shape the dough into donuts using a round cutter. Arrange the cut pieces on a tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them and allow the dough to rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry the donuts in small batches, turning them until they are golden and crisp on each side. Transfer them to paper towels to drain and cool.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Heat the milk with the vanilla bean or extract in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove the vanilla bean if used.
3. Gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking continuously to ensure it doesn’t curdle.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a smooth custard.
5. Take off the heat and pour into a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it onto the surface to avoid a skin from forming. Let it cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble the Donuts

1. Use a piping bag fitted with a narrow tip to inject the custard filling into each donut. Be generous to ensure a creamy surprise in every bite!

Step 5: Create the Caramelized Topping

1. Sprinkle sugar evenly on the tops of the filled donuts.
2. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden shell. If you don’t have a torch, place the sugared donuts under a broiler, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Conclusion

These Heavenly Cream Delight Donuts are a masterpiece of culinary creativity, combining the silky indulgence of custard with the crunch of caramelized sugar. With their stunning presentation and unforgettable flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed as a solo treat, each bite offers a taste of bliss.