Boston Cream Donuts

Here’s a delicious recipe for Boston Cream Donuts that features fluffy, yeast-based donuts filled with creamy vanilla custard and topped with rich chocolate glaze. These treats are a delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Boston Cream Donuts Recipe

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional, for shine)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough for the Donuts:
   • In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let it cool until lukewarm.
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the warm milk mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract.
   • Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
3. Make the Custard Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until smooth and cook over medium heat until it thickens, stirring constantly.
   • In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Once the milk mixture is thickened, gradually pour a small amount into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them. Then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
   • Cook for another 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in the butter and vanilla extract, and let it cool. Transfer to a piping bag or bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Shape the Donuts:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut out donuts. Re-roll scraps to cut out additional donuts.
   • Place the cut donuts on a floured baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.
5. Fry the Donuts:
   • In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in a few donuts at a time, frying for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Fill the Donuts:
   • Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a long tip to fill each donut with the custard filling. Insert the tip into the side of the donut and squeeze gently until filled.
7. Make the Chocolate Glaze:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth. If using, stir in the corn syrup for shine.
8. Glaze the Donuts:
   • Dip the tops of each filled donut into the chocolate glaze and let excess chocolate drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
9. Serve:
   • Once the glaze has set, your Boston Cream Donuts are ready to enjoy!

Tips

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month (glaze separately).
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate custard or whipped cream, for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Donut Holes: If you have leftover dough scraps, you can fry them as donut holes!

These Boston Cream Donuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy your delightful homemade treats!