Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

Introduction

Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts are the ultimate indulgence for any dessert lover. These soft, pillowy donuts are filled with rich and creamy chocolate custard, making every bite an explosion of flavor. The contrast between the fluffy donut and the smooth custard filling creates an irresistible combination. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these donuts are sure to become a favorite.

The first time I made these, I knew they were something special. As the donuts cooled and I filled them with the decadent custard, the aroma alone was enough to make everyone impatient for a taste. Once bitten, the silky chocolate custard oozes out, perfectly complementing the light, airy donut.

What makes these donuts even better is their versatility. You can dust them with powdered sugar, dip them in chocolate glaze, or top them with sprinkles for a festive touch. While they may seem like a bakery-level treat, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. With a little patience and some basic ingredients, you can create these delightful donuts and bring a touch of sweetness to any day.

Perfect for:

• Breakfast treats
• Dessert lovers
• Special occasions
• Holiday baking
• Chocolate fanatics

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

Here’s why Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts will become your go-to treat:

• Soft and Fluffy Donuts: The dough is light and airy, providing the perfect base for the creamy filling.
• Rich Chocolate Custard: The chocolate custard filling is velvety and decadent, adding a luxurious touch to every bite.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like fresh, homemade donuts, and these are far superior to store-bought versions.
• Customizable: You can experiment with different coatings and toppings to make them your own.
• Perfect for Sharing: These donuts are a crowd-pleaser and great for family gatherings or brunches.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 3 hours (including dough rising time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 12 donuts
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g, Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts:

For the Donut Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk (warm)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable oil for frying

Chocolate Custard Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
• Pinch of salt

Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F) and a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture, eggs, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Make the Chocolate Custard:

5. Heat the Milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it just begins to simmer.
6. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
7. Temper the Eggs: Gradually add a ladle of the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
8. Cook the Custard: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
9. Add the Chocolate and Vanilla: Remove from heat, stir in the chocolate and vanilla until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface) and refrigerate until chilled.

Shape and Fry the Donuts:

10. Roll Out the Dough: After the first rise, roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.
11. Cut the Donuts: Use a round cutter (about 3 inches) to cut out circles. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
12. Second Rise: Cover the donuts with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.
13. Heat the Oil: Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
14. Fry the Donuts: Fry 2-3 donuts at a time, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Fill the Donuts:

15. Fill with Custard: Once the donuts are cool, poke a hole in each donut using a skewer or piping tip. Fill a piping bag with the chocolate custard and pipe it into each donut.
16. Coat the Donuts: Roll the filled donuts in granulated or powdered sugar, if desired.

How to Serve Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts are best served fresh and slightly warm. Here are a few ideas:

• With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The perfect pairing for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat.
• As a Dessert Platter: Serve alongside other pastries for a beautiful spread.
• Brunch Parties: A guaranteed hit at brunch gatherings.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or celebrations.

Additional Tips for Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

• Perfect Dough Consistency – Ensure your dough is soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet. This helps achieve light and fluffy donuts.
• Rest the Dough Properly – Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. A warm, draft-free spot works best for consistent proofing.
• Control Oil Temperature – Fry at 350°F (175°C) to cook the donuts evenly without burning the outside or undercooking the inside. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Drain Excess Oil – Place fried donuts on a wire rack with paper towels underneath to remove excess oil and keep them crisp.
• Cool Before Filling – Let the donuts cool completely before filling to prevent the chocolate custard from melting or becoming too runny.
• Strain the Custard – For a silky-smooth texture, strain the chocolate custard after cooking to remove any lumps.
• Use a Piping Bag with a Long Tip – This makes filling the donuts easier and ensures the custard reaches the center evenly.
• Don’t Overfill – Avoid overfilling to prevent custard from leaking out and making the donuts messy.
• Dust or Glaze Immediately – If dusting with sugar or glazing, do it while the donuts are warm to help the coating stick well.
• Store Properly – Store filled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. For longer storage, refrigerate and bring them to room temperature before serving.

Recipe Variations for Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

1. Vanilla Custard Filled Donuts: Replace the chocolate with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a classic custard filling.
2. Nutella-Filled Donuts: Use Nutella as the filling for a hazelnut twist.
3. Salted Caramel Donuts: Fill with salted caramel custard and top with flaky sea salt.
4. Mocha Custard Donuts: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the custard for a coffee-flavored filling.
5. Berry Jam-Filled Donuts: Swap the chocolate custard for raspberry or strawberry jam.
6. Peanut Butter Custard Donuts: Add a swirl of peanut butter to the chocolate custard.
7. Coconut Custard Donuts: Mix shredded coconut into the custard for a tropical flavor.
8. Matcha Custard Donuts: Add matcha powder to the custard for a green tea twist.
9. Lemon Curd Filled Donuts: Use tangy lemon curd for a citrusy variation.
10. Maple Custard Donuts: Add maple extract to the custard and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Freezing and Storage for Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

• Freezing: You can freeze the unfilled donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and fill before serving.
• Storage: Store filled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment for Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

• Deep Fry Thermometer
• Round Cookie Cutter
• Piping Bag and Tip
• Wire Rack
• Mixing Bowls
• Saucepan
• Stand Mixer (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions for Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts

1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
   Yes, bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, but the texture will be more like a brioche roll.
2. How do I prevent the custard from curdling?
   Stir constantly while cooking, and temper the eggs before adding them to the hot milk.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight for a slower rise, then bring it to room temperature before shaping.
4. How do I know the donuts are cooked through?
   They should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped.

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Conclusion

Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts are a decadent treat that’s worth every bite. With their soft, pillowy dough and smooth, chocolatey custard filling, these donuts are pure bliss. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate glaze takes them to the next level, making each bite even more irresistible.

Perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself, these donuts are guaranteed to impress. Serve them fresh and warm for the ultimate experience, or make a batch to share with friends and family—if you can resist eating them all yourself!

I’d love to see how your Chocolate Custard Filled Donuts turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!