Hey y’all! If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts, these Soft Crunchy Creme Brulee Donuts are going to be your new favorite treat. Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy donut with a delightfully crunchy caramelized sugar topping, reminiscent of classic crème brûlée. Whether for brunch, a holiday gathering, or just because, these donuts are sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Combines the best of two classic desserts – donuts and crème brûlée.
- Perfectly balanced with a soft interior and a crunchy sugar topping.
- Impresses guests at any event, from brunch to dinner parties.
- Customizable with various fillings and toppings.
- Relatively easy to make with straightforward steps.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Incorporate flour and salt gradually, kneading until a smooth dough forms. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape and Fry the Donuts
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out shapes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts in batches until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Place on a wire rack to drain.
Add the Creme Brulee Topping
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Let it cool slightly.
- Dip the top of each donut into the cream, then sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Using a culinary torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy topping.
Notes
- For a guide on using culinary torches, see this The Kitchn article.
- Ensure your oil temperature remains consistent to avoid greasy donuts.
- For a healthier alternative, you can bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Variations
- Chocolate Filled: Add a chocolate cream filling before frying for an extra indulgent treat.
- Fruit Glazed: Top with a berry glaze instead of crème brûlée sugar for a fruity twist.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the fried donuts in cinnamon sugar for a classic flavor profile.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Donut cutter
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Culinary torch
- Wire rack
Storage Instructions
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat briefly before serving to restore their texture.
Suggested Pairings
- Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
- Enjoy alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality yeast for best results. Check this King Arthur Baking guide for more on yeast.
- Test the oil temperature with a small piece of dough to ensure it’s hot enough before adding the donuts.
- Ensure each donut is completely cool before torching the sugar to achieve the ideal crunchy topping.
FAQ
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and fry the donuts the next day.
What if I don’t have a culinary torch?
If you don’t have a torch, you can place the sugared donuts under a broiler briefly, watching closely to avoid burning.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, freeze the unfried donut shapes. When ready to use, allow them to thaw and rise before frying.