Custard-Filled Doughnuts are a classic bakery favorite known for their fluffy fried dough and rich, creamy vanilla custard center. Lightly golden on the outside and soft inside, these doughnuts are often dusted with powdered sugar or coated in a sweet glaze.
Making them at home may take a little time, but the result is a delicious treat that tastes just like the ones from a traditional bakery.
Yield and Timing
Makes 12 doughnuts
Prep time: 30 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour
Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Doughnuts
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Custard Filling
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Topping
- Powdered sugar or glaze
Preparation
Make the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Doughnuts
Roll dough out to about ½ inch thickness.
Cut into circles using a round cutter.
Place on a floured surface, cover lightly, and let rise again for 20 minutes.
Fry the Doughnuts
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry doughnuts for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Custard
In a saucepan, heat milk until warm.
In a bowl, whisk sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch.
Slowly pour warm milk into the mixture while whisking.
Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat until thick.
Stir in butter and vanilla, then allow custard to cool.
Fill the Doughnuts
Once doughnuts are cool, use a piping bag to fill each doughnut with custard through a small hole in the side.
Dust with powdered sugar or glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy custard-filled doughnuts with:
- Coffee or cappuccino
- Hot chocolate
- Fresh berries
Storage
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days because of the custard filling.
Why These Doughnuts Are So Loved
The combination of soft fried dough and smooth vanilla custard creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Every bite is rich, creamy, and satisfying.
Custard-Filled Doughnuts are a timeless treat that always feels special.
