Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy donut that bursts with rich, creamy frozen custard. The contrast of the soft exterior and the smooth filling creates a delightful experience that dances on your taste buds. This is not just any dessert; this is a moment you’ll want to savor over and over again.
The joy of making frozen custard-filled donuts is like reliving childhood memories of donut shops, where every bite was an adventure. Picture enjoying these treats at a family gathering or a cozy weekend brunch, and watch as smiles light up the room with every delicious bite. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These frozen custard-filled donuts are easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion
- Their luscious flavor pairs beautifully with coffee or tea
- Visually appealing, they’re sure to impress guests at gatherings
- Versatile enough to customize fillings based on your mood or season!
I still recall the laughter and cheers when I first surprised my family with these delightful creations. Watching their faces light up as they took their first bites was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your donuts; it gives them structure and fluffiness.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and aids in browning.
Active Dry Yeast: Ensures your donuts rise perfectly; fresh yeast gives the best results.
Whole Milk: Use warm milk to activate the yeast; it adds moisture and richness.
Unsalted Butter: Incorporates flavor and tenderness into the dough; always melt it before mixing.
Eggs: They bind everything together; use large eggs for consistency in results.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Frozen Custard: This creamy filling is what makes these donuts unforgettable; choose your favorite flavor!
Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; it adds that finishing touch of sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Activate the Yeast: Warm ½ cup of milk in a small saucepan until it’s lukewarm. Pour it into a bowl, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Create the Dough Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well before creating a well in the center.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the frothy yeast mixture along with 1 melted stick of unsalted butter and 2 beaten eggs. Stir until combined but don’t worry if it’s slightly sticky; that’s good!
Knead the Dough**: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It should feel soft yet springy under your hands.
Let It Rise**: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Shape Your Donuts**: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Roll out to about ½ inch thick and cut out circles using a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters.
Now you may be wondering how to fill these little beauties with custard without making an absolute mess (spoiler alert: it’s possible).
Prepare yourself for what comes next because this is where things get exciting!
You Must Know
- Frozen custard-filled donuts are a delightful treat that combines creamy custard with fluffy donuts
- These treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of the day
- The richness of frozen custard elevates the classic donut to new heights, making them irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the donuts until golden brown, then cool them before filling with frozen custard. This ensures the custard doesn’t melt into a gooey mess, preserving that glorious donut shape.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different custard flavors like chocolate or vanilla for variety. Adding sprinkles or a drizzle of chocolate on top can make these donuts even more fun and festive.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover filled donuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For a warm treat, simply microwave them for about 10 seconds before enjoying.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly fluffy donuts, make sure your oil is at the right temperature—around 375°F
- Letting your dough rise adequately is crucial for that airy texture
- Remember to fill the donuts just before serving to keep them fresh and delicious
The first time I made frozen custard-filled donuts was during a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could fill them! My cousin even said they could be “dangerous” because they were so good.
FAQ
What is the difference between custard and regular cream filling?
Frozen custard is richer and creamier due to egg yolks compared to regular cream.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the donut dough ahead but fill them just before serving.
How do I know when my oil is ready for frying?
Use a thermometer; oil should reach 375°F before frying your donuts for best results.
Irresistible Frozen Custard-Filled Donuts
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of warm, fluffy donuts filled with rich, creamy frozen custard. These treats evoke nostalgic memories while creating new ones at gatherings or brunches. Easy to prepare and customizable, these donuts promise a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup whole milk (warm)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup frozen custard (your choice of flavor)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Warm ½ cup of milk until lukewarm. Sprinkle in the yeast and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Create Dough Mixture: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix until combined; dough will be slightly sticky.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let It Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape Your Donuts: Roll out the dough to ½ inch thick and cut out circles using a donut cutter.
- Fry & Fill: Fry donuts until golden brown, cool slightly before filling them with frozen custard.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (75g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg