Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe

Let me introduce you to a true delight: the Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe that will make your kitchen smell like a sweet pastry shop and bring a smile to your face with every bite. These donuts are not just ordinary fried dough; they are pillowy, lightly sweetened rounds filled with a rich, velvety Bavarian cream that melts in your mouth. Perfectly dusted with sugar and bursting with that luscious cream filling, this recipe turns any ordinary day into an occasion. Trust me, once you try these homemade treasures, you’ll feel like a donut master and will want to share the magic with all your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving in, it’s great to know just how straightforward yet purposeful the ingredients list is. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal texture, rich flavor, and beautiful golden color that characterize the Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe. With pantry staples and a few fresh elements, you’re all set to create magic.

• 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to the dough.
• 3 tablespoons active dry yeast: Powers the dough’s rise and gives those donuts their signature fluff.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast to activate the rise.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right.
• 1/4 cup shortening: Keeps the dough tender and moist.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and enriches the dough.
• 1 large egg yolk: Adds extra richness and softness.
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lends a warm, inviting undertone.
• 3 and 1/4 cups bread flour (plus 1/4 cup if needed): Provides the structure needed for that perfect chew and bounce.
• 2 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (or 2 teaspoons table salt): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Lightens the texture alongside the yeast.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with the rise and improves tenderness.
• 12 cups canola oil (or peanut oil): Essential for deep frying to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
• 3 cups granulated sugar (for rolling donuts): Coats the donuts for that classic sweet finish.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream: Whipped to blend with the pastry cream filling for dreamy indulgence.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just enough.
• 1 batch Pastry Cream: The real star filling that you’ll need to prepare and chill ahead — patience here means a luscious reward.

How to Make Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Cream

Start by making your pastry cream using your favorite recipe or the one linked above. It needs to be refrigerated for at least two hours to fully chill and thicken. This rich custard is what transforms these donuts from simple treats into irresistible delights.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Warm your milk to about 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit—not too hot, just like a cozy bath temperature. Add your yeast and a tablespoon of sugar to give it some energy. Wait a few minutes until bubbles form on the surface—this shows your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to make your dough rise beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix together the activated yeast mixture, 1/2 cup sugar, shortening, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. This blend forms the flavorful base for your dough.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Carefully add the bread flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda to the wet ingredients. Give it a gentle mix but don’t stir just yet—this layering helps prevent overworking the dough early on.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Use a dough hook or your hands to knead the dough until it becomes elastic, slightly sticky but manageable. This usually takes about five minutes. Add a bit more flour if it feels too sticky, but aim to keep it soft and stretchy — this will give you those soft, lofty donuts.

Step 6: First Proof

Lightly grease a bowl, place your dough ball inside, and cover it with plastic wrap sprayed with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Create a warm, steamy environment in your oven by boiling water in a pan on the bottom rack and placing the dough on the top rack with the oven turned off but warm. Let it rise until doubled in size, which takes about an hour. This slow, moist rise ensures wonderful texture.

Step 7: Shape and Cut Donuts

Turn out your risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently and roll it into a 12×12 inch square about half an inch thick. Use a 2 1/2 inch cutter to cut out rounds, pressing straight down (no twisting!) onto parchment squares to avoid sealing the edges and restricting their rise.

Step 8: Second Proof

Place your cut donuts on their parchment squares and back into the warm, humid oven environment for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up again, nearly doubling in size. This step is crucial for that light and airy texture.

Step 9: Fry the Donuts

Heat your oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit in a heavy, deep pan. Gently slide each donut off its parchment into the oil, cooking for about 30-60 seconds per side until light golden brown. Keep a close eye on the temperature for even frying. Drain the donuts on a wire rack over paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 10: Coat in Sugar

While the donuts are still warm but cool enough to handle, roll them generously in granulated sugar for that classic sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Step 11: Prepare the Filling

Whip your heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold in your chilled pastry cream until smooth and combined. This light, fluffy cream filling is what takes these donuts to the next level of indulgence.

Step 12: Fill the Donuts

Using a piping bag or a snipped ziplock bag, poke into the side of each donut and carefully pipe in the cream filling. Don’t be shy — these donuts love a generous amount of filling that surprises you with every bite.

How to Serve Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over your filled donuts for a delicate snowy finish. For an extra touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate or dust with cocoa powder to complement the creaminess inside.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet treats with a rich cup of coffee, a bold espresso, or even a creamy chai latte. The contrast between the hot beverage and the cool, creamy donuts is a match made in heaven, perfect for leisurely breakfasts or afternoon indulgences.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe on a large platter lined with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color and elegance. For a festive vibe, place them in cupcake liners and tie them with twine for gifting. You could even serve them alongside fresh berries to balance the richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The sugar coating may soften, but reheating gently can revive them nicely.

Freezing

You can freeze unfilled donuts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to one month. Avoid freezing after filling as the cream can lose its texture when thawed.

Reheating

Warm your donuts in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5-7 minutes to regain that freshly-fried texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. Fill them after reheating for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I make the Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe without a stand mixer?

Yes! You can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It will take a bit more elbow grease but still results in beautiful, fluffy donuts.

What if my yeast doesn’t bubble when activating?

This usually means the yeast is old or the water temperature was off. Use fresh yeast and water that feels warm to the touch, not hot, and try again for that bubbly action.

Can I use a different filling instead of pastry cream?

Absolutely. Jam, chocolate ganache, or even lemon curd work well. Though the classic Bavarian cream is the star here, feel free to experiment!

How do I know when oil is at the right temperature?

A candy thermometer is best, but if you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough in the oil: it should bubble vigorously and rise to the surface within a few seconds.

Why is the sugar coating important?

Rolling the donuts in sugar while warm ensures a sweet, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough and creamy filling, creating that perfect classic texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s both comforting and extravagant, this Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe is your best bet. It’s a wonderful way to spend time in the kitchen, and the joy of biting into a pillowy, creamy-filled donut is absolutely worth the effort. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to dazzle your taste buds and loved ones with these heavenly delights!

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