Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe

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If you are searching for a truly irresistible homemade treat, this Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe is the answer. Imagine biting into a pillowy soft, golden donut that gives way to a luscious, silky vanilla cream center bursting with flavor. Each donut is crafted with care, combining a tender yeast dough with a perfectly rich vanilla custard that elevates this dessert to a delightful experience you’ll want to share with everyone you love. Whether it’s a weekend indulgence or a special occasion showstopper, this recipe makes vanilla cream filled donuts that are worth every minute of effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are essentials, simple yet fundamental to nailing the texture and flavor of the donuts. Each item plays a unique role: flour provides structure, yeast brings that airy rise, and the vanilla cream filling delivers the dreamy finishing touch.

• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your donut dough, offering the perfect chew and structure.
• 3/4 cup lukewarm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for a light, airy texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast: The magic ingredient for that fluffy rise everyone loves.
• 3 room temperature eggs: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the dough.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and room temperature: Provides buttery flavor and a soft, tender bite.
• 1 tablespoon rum: Enhances flavor complexity without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and strengthens gluten in the dough.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating): Ensures a sweet, crunchy outer texture that’s irresistible.
• 1 cup milk: The base for the vanilla cream, creating a smooth, creamy filling.
• 2 egg yolks: Enriches the custard for a velvety mouthfeel.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cream): Adds silkiness and a rich finish to the filling.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cream): Sweetens the filling just right.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the cream to hold its shape inside the donut.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: The heart of the vanilla cream—pure, fragrant, and essential.

How to Make Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Whisk gently until the yeast dissolves, then let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s foamy on top. This step guarantees your donuts will rise light and fluffy, setting the stage for the perfect dough.

Step 2: Create the Dough

Once the yeast mixture is ready, add your flour, salt, eggs, and rum. Begin mixing, either by hand or with a mixer attachment, until the ingredients come together. Slowly add the cubed butter piece by piece, kneading continuously to develop a glossy and smooth dough. After a thorough knead, cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about two hours, until nearly doubled in size.

Step 3: Chill the Dough Overnight

Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate for 12 to 16 hours. Chilling overnight isn’t just a convenient pause; it deepens the flavor and improves the dough’s texture, giving your Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe that extra-special homemade touch.

Step 4: Shape and Proof the Donuts

Divide your chilled dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each one into a smooth, round bun and place them on a flour-dusted, parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them well apart since they will grow quite a bit. Cover lightly and allow the dough to proof at room temperature for about an hour, or until each bun is nearly doubled in size.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot, like cast iron, to a temperature between 330 and 350°F. Carefully lower a few donuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a spider tool or slotted spoon to transfer the donuts onto paper towels to drain excess oil—this ensures they stay light, not greasy.

Step 6: Coat in Sugar

Let the donuts cool just enough to handle, then roll each one in half a cup of granulated sugar. This adds a sweet, slightly crunchy coating that complements the soft interior perfectly. Once coated, set the donuts aside to cool completely before moving on to filling them.

Step 7: Prepare the Vanilla Cream Filling

Heat the milk in a saucepan until just before boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to temper the eggs. Return everything to the pan and cook over medium heat until the custard thickens, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, stir in butter until melted and smooth, then let the cream cool completely before filling the donuts.

Step 8: Fill the Donuts

Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, gently pierce each donut and fill it generously with the chilled vanilla cream. The contrast of warm donut and cold cream will amaze you and anyone lucky enough to take a bite.

How to Serve Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate finish or drizzle a bit of melted chocolate on top for an extra special touch. Fresh berries or edible flowers also brighten them up, making your donuts look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

Pair your vanilla cream filled donuts with fresh fruit or a cup of strong coffee to balance sweetness with freshness and a touch of bitterness. A light vanilla or cinnamon-spiced milkshake can also turn your snack into a feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your donuts on rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to make the colors pop. Arrange them in a circle with a bowl of extra vanilla cream or fruit preserves in the center for a fun, interactive treat. Personalize each donut with different toppings to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their fresh, fluffy texture. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out.

Freezing

You can freeze these donuts either before or after filling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To revive the fresh warmth of your vanilla cream filled donuts, gently warm them in an oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the cream filling to overheat and become runny.

FAQs

Can I make the dough without chilling overnight?

Yes, but keeping the dough in the fridge overnight enhances its flavor and improves the texture. If you’re short on time, proofing and shaping immediately still yields tasty results.

What oil is best for frying these donuts?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils ensure a clean, golden fry without imparting unwanted flavors.

How do I prevent the donuts from absorbing too much oil?

Keeping the oil temperature steady between 330-350°F is key. Frying at too low a temperature causes excessive oil absorption, while too high can burn the exterior too quickly.

Is there a substitute for rum in the dough?

If you prefer to omit alcohol, vanilla extract or orange zest can also add wonderful flavor. Just use equal amounts to replace the rum.

Can I use store-bought cream instead of making the vanilla filling?

While custard adds the perfect texture and freshness, you can use high-quality pastry cream or flavored whipped cream for convenience. Homemade filling, however, makes the Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe truly stand out.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Cream Filled Donuts Recipe brings the joy of a bakery right into your kitchen with a recipe that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create indulgent treats perfect for any occasion. Once you try these, sharing might just be the hardest part!

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