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Crème Brûlée Donuts Recipe

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4.6 from 133 reviews

Indulge in these delightful Crème Brûlée Donuts, combining soft, fluffy baked donuts filled with smooth, creamy crème brûlée custard and topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar crust. This recipe brings the classic French dessert to a fun, handheld treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Donuts:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Crème Brûlée Filling:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Topping:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crème Brûlée Filling: Heat the heavy cream and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering, then remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly temper the egg yolks by pouring the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk bowl while whisking constantly. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, cool, then transfer to a piping bag or bowl and refrigerate until ready.
  2. Prepare the Donuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
  3. Bake the Donuts: Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
  4. Fill the Donuts: Once the donuts have cooled, use a piping bag to fill each one with the chilled crème brûlée filling, injecting the creamy custard into the center of each donut.
  5. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each filled donut. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden crust. Alternatively, place the donuts under a preheated broiler for a couple of minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  6. Serve: Allow the caramelized sugar topping to set for a minute or two. Serve the Crème Brûlée Donuts slightly warm or at room temperature for a decadent treat.

Notes

  • For the best caramelized topping, use a kitchen torch for precise control and even caramelization.
  • If you prefer frying the donuts instead of baking, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the batter spoonfuls for 2-3 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels before filling.
  • Make sure to cool the donuts completely before filling to prevent the custard from melting.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container, but consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
  • The topping caramelization should be done just before serving to maintain its crisp texture.

Keywords: Crème Brûlée Donuts, baked donuts, crème brûlée filling, caramelized sugar topping, French dessert, custard filled donuts

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/creme-brulee-donuts-recipe/