Oven-Baked Donuts with a Crème Brûlée Twist

Introduction

These Oven-Baked Donuts with a Crème Brûlée Twist have quickly become one of my family’s favorite treats. I was inspired by the rich and creamy allure of crème brûlée, combined with the comforting sweetness of homemade donuts. The result? A deliciously indulgent yet surprisingly light donut with a velvety vanilla pastry cream filling and a crispy caramelized topping. From the moment the warm, freshly baked donuts were ready, the family gathered around the kitchen in excitement. The soft, pillowy texture of the donuts perfectly complements the rich vanilla flavor of the pastry cream, and the crunchy sugar topping adds just the right amount of elegance. They disappeared faster than I could have imagined, and I knew I had a winner on my hands. Whether for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or just to impress your friends and family, these donuts are sure to steal the show!

Why You’ll Love These Oven-Baked Donuts with a Crème Brûlée Twist

These donuts are a twist on a classic favorite, with the creamy richness of crème brûlée seamlessly integrated into the donut world. Here’s why you’ll love them:

1. Oven-Baked Perfection: Unlike traditional fried donuts, these oven-baked donuts are lighter, fluffier, and much easier to make, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
2. Crème Brûlée Pastry Cream: The creamy, smooth filling made from scratch adds a rich, luxurious flavor that elevates these donuts to something special.
3. Caramelized Sugar Topping: The signature crème brûlée topping brings a delightful crunch to each bite, making it feel like you’re enjoying two desserts in one!
4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness and flavor of the filling or topping based on your preferences. Plus, they can be made ahead of time for convenience!
5. Fun to Make: Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, these donuts are fun to assemble and offer a rewarding experience from start to finish.

Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) plain yogurt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsalted butter, melted

For the Vanilla Pastry Cream

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 5 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons (24 g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, cubed

For the Crème Brûlée Topping

• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Donuts

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to dense donuts.
5. Pour the batter into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the tip cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Pastry Cream

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat until steaming, but not boiling. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
3. Gradually pour 1/4 of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Slowly add the rest of the milk and stir to combine.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for about 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla and butter, and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator until completely cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Donuts

1. Once the donuts have cooled, use a piping bag with a narrow tip to fill each donut with the chilled vanilla pastry cream. Insert the piping tip into the side of the donut and gently pipe the cream into the center.

Step 4: Add the Crème Brûlée Topping

1. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each filled donut.
2. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crispy. Allow the sugar to set for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 donuts
Calories per Serving: Approximately 260 calories per donut (This is an estimate and can vary based on exact measurements and substitutions).

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Chill Time for Pastry Cream: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling)

How to Serve

• Serve the donuts fresh after the sugar topping has been caramelized.
• Pair these donuts with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a delightful breakfast or dessert.
• Serve as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit or other pastries for a sophisticated touch.
• These donuts can also be enjoyed as a treat for holidays or special occasions.
• For a fun twist, serve them with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Mix until just combined for a light, airy texture.
2. Chill the Pastry Cream: Make sure to chill the pastry cream completely before filling the donuts for the best results.
3. Use a Kitchen Torch Carefully: When caramelizing the sugar, be cautious of the flame. Hold the torch at a slight angle to avoid burning the sugar.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the vanilla pastry cream the day before and store it in the fridge. This saves time on the day you’re making the donuts.
5. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate ganache or fruit preserves, for a unique twist on this recipe.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
   Yes, you can shape the donuts by hand or use a muffin tin. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavor will remain delicious!
2. Can I fry these donuts instead of baking them?
   This recipe is designed for oven-baked donuts, but if you prefer fried donuts, you can try frying them in vegetable oil until golden and crispy.
3. How long can I store the donuts?
   Store the donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For the best flavor, consume within 24 hours.
4. Can I make the pastry cream ahead of time?
   Yes, the pastry cream can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
5. What can I substitute for the whole milk in the pastry cream?
   You can use 2% or skim milk, but the creaminess may be slightly reduced.
6. Can I use a different filling for the donuts?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with other fillings such as jam, chocolate ganache, or a different flavor of cream.
7. Do I need to use a kitchen torch for the topping?
   The kitchen torch is key for achieving the signature caramelized sugar crust. If you don’t have one, you can broil the donuts in the oven briefly, but it may not achieve the same crisp texture.
8. Can I freeze the donuts?
   Yes, you can freeze the unfilled donuts. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
9. How do I prevent the sugar topping from melting?
   After caramelizing, let the sugar set for a few minutes before serving to ensure it stays crispy.
10. Can I use flavored extracts in place of vanilla?
    Yes, you can use almond, hazelnut, or other extracts to flavor the donuts or the pastry cream for a different taste experience.

These Oven-Baked Donuts with a Crème Brûlée Twist are sure to delight anyone who loves the rich, creamy flavor of crème brûlée combined with the warmth and fluffiness of homemade donuts. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, this recipe is a must-try! Enjoy every crispy, creamy, and flavorful bite.

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