By This Crème Brûlée Doughnuts balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Crème Brûlée Doughnuts captures the essence of desserts|cookies & biscuits while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Crème Brûlée Doughnuts becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Doughnuts:
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
2 eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Pastry Cream Filling:
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Caramel Topping:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp water
PREPARATION STEPS
Prepare the Doughnuts:
In a small bowl, mix the yeast, warm milk, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add in eggs, yeast mixture, and softened butter. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape and Fry:
Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out rounds using a cookie cutter or glass.
Let the cut dough rise for another 30 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry doughnuts in batches until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Pastry Cream:
In a saucepan, heat the milk until just simmering.
In a bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until pale and thick.
Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return mixture to saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbling, stirring constantly
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and butter
Let cool completely, then pipe into doughnuts using a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
Prepare the Caramel Topping:
In a small saucepan, melt the sugar with water over medium heat until amber in color (do not stir). Remove from heat.
Carefully spoon or brush the caramel over the tops of the filled doughnuts. Let set for a crackly finish.
Nutritional Information:
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rise time) | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours
Calories: ~320 kcal per doughnut
Servings: 10–12 doughnuts
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 55 min | Servings: 12 | Calories: ~320 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Coffee; Tea; Vanilla ice cream; Fresh berries
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
