why make this recipe

Bavarian Cream Donuts are a delightful treat you can enjoy any time of day. With a soft, fluffy donut exterior and a rich, creamy filling, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Making these donuts from scratch allows you to customize them to your taste. You can impress friends or family with this decadent dessert, making it perfect for special occasions or weekend treats. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so delicious at home is hard to beat!

how to make Bavarian Cream Donuts

Ingredients:

For the Bavarian Cream Filling:

3 egg yolks
1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 stick (38g) butter
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

For the Donut Dough:

5 cups (600g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (100g) white sugar (plus extra for coating)
2 packs (14g) active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
2 large eggs
2/3 stick (80g) butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions:

Make the Bavarian Cream (Prepare ahead):

In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
Heat the remaining sugar, milk, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warm.
Gradually pour the warm milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens.
Bring to a boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Strain through a fine mesh sieve if needed.
Whisk in the butter, one tablespoon at a time.
Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface and refrigerate until fully chilled.

Make the Donut Dough:

Warm milk to body temperature. Mix with yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy (skip this step if using instant yeast).
In a stand mixer, add the remaining sugar, eggs, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir.
Add flour and mix on low speed until mostly combined.
Slowly drizzle in melted butter with the mixer running. Increase to high speed and knead for 3–5 minutes.
Turn out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth.
Shape into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (1–2 hours).
Punch down the dough. Roll to 1/2 inch thick and cut rounds using a 2.5–3 inch cutter.
Place on lined baking sheet, cover, and proof for 45 minutes or until puffy.

Fry the Donuts:

Heat oil (at least 2–3 inches deep) to 350°F (180°C).
Fry 2–3 donuts at a time, 1–2 minutes per side, until pale golden.
Transfer to a wire rack lined with paper towels. Roll in sugar while warm.

how to serve Bavarian Cream Donuts

Serve the Bavarian Cream Donuts warm or at room temperature. You can cut a small slit in the side of each donut and pipe the chilled Bavarian cream inside for a delicious surprise. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle some chocolate on top before serving.

how to store Bavarian Cream Donuts

Store any leftover Bavarian Cream Donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them without the filling. When ready to eat, you can thaw them and fill with fresh Bavarian cream.

tips to make Bavarian Cream Donuts

For a lighter cream filling, you can whip the heavy cream before folding it into the Bavarian cream mixture.
Ensure the oil temperature is just right by testing with a small piece of dough; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
If you prefer a flavored Bavarian cream, try adding different extracts or zest to the mixture.

variation

You can change the filling to different flavors such as chocolate or fruit-flavored custards. Additionally, consider glazing the donuts instead of rolling them in sugar for a different finish.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast without the need to let it sit in warm milk. Just mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

Can I make Bavarian cream ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bavarian cream a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fill the donuts.

What type of oil is best for frying donuts?
Vegetable oil is a great choice because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Canola or peanut oil also work well for frying donuts.