- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm milk, egg, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling
- In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm (but not boiling).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract, then cool completely.
Step 3: Shape & Fry the Donuts
- Roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness and cut into circles using a biscuit cutter or glass.
- Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
- Fry each donut for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel and let cool.
Step 4: Fill & Serve
- Using a piping bag, fill each donut with vanilla cream through a small hole.
- Roll donuts in powdered sugar or granulated sugar.
- Serve fresh and enjoy!
Serving & Storage Tips
✔ Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days.
✔ Keep in the fridge if storing longer and reheat slightly before eating.
✔ Freeze unfilled donuts for up to 2 months.
Variants & Substitutions
- Chocolate Cream Filling: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the custard.
- Lemon Cream Donuts: Mix 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the filling.
- Strawberry Cream: Blend strawberries into whipped cream for a fruity twist.
FAQ
1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, then brush with butter.
2. How do I get my donuts extra fluffy?
Let the dough rise fully before frying and don’t over-knead.
3. Can I use store-bought pudding for the filling?
Absolutely! Vanilla pudding works as an easy substitute.
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