Description

Indulge in these decadent Crème Brûlée Donuts, featuring a soft, cinnamon-spiced fried donut filled with a rich, creamy vanilla custard and topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar crust. This delightful dessert combines the classic French crème brûlée flavors with the comforting texture of freshly made donuts, perfect for an impressive treat or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Donuts:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

For the Crème Brûlée Filling:

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Topping:

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Instructions

Prepare the Crème Brûlée Filling: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until just simmering, then remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking to temper them. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5–7 minutes, without boiling. Remove from heat, cover with plastic wrap pressed on the surface to prevent skin, and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill and set.
Make the Donuts: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Combine wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls or use a donut cutter to shape the batter and fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and let cool until safe to handle.
Fill the Donuts: Fit a piping bag with a long, narrow tip and fill it with the chilled crème brûlée filling. Insert the tip into each donut and gently pipe the custard inside until filled.
Caramelize the 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 golden, crispy crust. Alternatively, place the donuts under a broiler for a few seconds, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Notes

Ensure the crème brûlée filling is completely chilled before filling the donuts to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for perfectly fried donuts; too hot will burn them, too cool will make them greasy.
If you do not have a kitchen torch, use the oven broiler method for caramelizing sugar and watch carefully to avoid burning.
Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature accurately when frying.
Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat lightly before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Frying
Cuisine: French-inspired

Keywords: Crème Brûlée Donuts, filled donuts, fried donuts, custard filled, caramelized sugar topping, French dessert, homemade donuts