Bavarian Cream Donuts Recipe: Classic Bakery-Style Treat
Hey there, it’s Ronza! Do you remember the last time you had a freshly baked donut? It took you straight to dessert heaven. For me, Bavarian cream donuts always make me smile. They are soft, golden, and filled with creamy vanilla.
Imagine biting into a warm, glazed donut. The dough melts, and you taste the smooth Bavarian cream. It’s a moment of pure joy. Making these donuts at home is worth all the effort.

A tray of fresh, homemade Bavarian cream-filled donuts, glistening with a light glaze and dusted with a gentle coating of powdered sugar. The donuts are arranged artfully on a rustic wooden surface, with a soft, diffused lighting highlighting their golden-brown exterior and the creamy white filling oozing out from the center. The overall composition evokes the cozy atmosphere of an old-world European bakery, inviting the viewer to imagine the delectable aroma and the satisfying texture of these classic treats.
Making these donuts takes about 5 hours. You’ll spend 45 minutes preparing and 4 hours chilling. But the result is amazing. You’ll get 8 servings of donut bliss. You can even change the filling to vanilla or something fruity.
Let’s start this sweet journey together. Get ready to make some incredible Bavarian cream donuts. Your taste buds will love you for it!
What Makes Bavarian Cream Donuts Special
Bavarian cream donuts are a classic favorite. They stand out with their rich vanilla pastry cream filling. This filling, nestled in soft dough, creates a heavenly taste experience.
Luxurious Vanilla Pastry Cream Filling
The heart of a Bavarian donut is its filling. Unlike Boston Cream Donuts, Bavarian donuts have a firmer, custard-like filling. This filling is made from wholesome ingredients like:
- 1 cup of condensed milk
- 1 cup of fresh or evaporated milk
- 2 egg yolks for added richness
The filling is cooked until thick, with constant stirring for the perfect texture. This creates a silky-smooth, aromatic vanilla custard that makes the donut indulgent.
Delightful Contrast of Airy Dough and Rich Cream
Bavarian donuts are special because of their contrast. The dough is light and airy, while the cream filling is rich. The dough, made with bread flour and yeast, is kneaded and rested for hours. This makes it tender and perfect for the filling.
Donut Type | Calories (Unfilled) | Calories (Filled) |
Long John (Maple) | 320 | 460 (Chocolate Cream) |
Round (Maple Glazed) | 240 | 300 (Chocolate Iced/Custard-Filled) |
The dough is shaped into donuts and fried until golden. This process, done at 350°F for 1-2 minutes per side, gives a crisp outside and a soft inside. This is ready for the luscious custard filling.
Bavarian cream donuts are a timeless favorite. They offer a mix of textures and flavors that delight. Enjoy them as a treat or share with loved ones for a smile and a satisfied sweet tooth.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bavarian Cream Donuts
To make the perfect Bavarian cream donuts, you need a few key ingredients. These ingredients combine to create a sweet indulgence. They turn a fried dough dessert into a smooth, silky cream filling. This mix is a calorie-rich snack that fulfills your desire for a sugary confection.
High-Quality Flour for Light, Fluffy Dough
The dough is the base of any great donut. High-quality all-purpose flour is key for a light and fluffy texture. It gives the dough the structure and support needed for the rich Bavarian cream filling.

Fresh Eggs and Butter for Rich Flavor
Fresh eggs and unsalted butter are vital for a rich, flavorful dough and a smooth cream filling. The eggs bind the ingredients and add to the texture. The butter brings a delightful richness that complements the sweetness of the sugary confection.
Pure Vanilla Extract for Aromatic Cream Filling
Pure vanilla extract is crucial in the Bavarian cream filling. It adds a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the sweet indulgence. The vanilla makes the filling creamy and custard-like, enhancing each bite of this fried dough dessert.

Ingredient | Purpose |
High-quality all-purpose flour | Creates a light, fluffy dough structure |
Fresh eggs | Binds ingredients and contributes to texture |
Unsalted butter | Adds rich flavor to the dough and cream |
Pure vanilla extract | Provides aromatic flavor to the cream filling |
Granulated sugar | Sweetens the dough and cream filling |
Fine sea salt | Enhances overall flavor profile |
Whole milk | Creates a smooth, creamy texture in the filling |
Instant yeast | Leavens the dough for a light, airy texture |
Cornstarch | Thickens the Bavarian cream filling |
Using these high-quality ingredients will help you make perfect Bavarian cream donuts. They are sure to satisfy your craving for a delightful calorie-rich snack.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bavarian Cream Donuts
Start your journey to make the perfect donut bavarian cream treat. This guide will teach you to make light, fluffy filled donuts. They’ll be as good as any breakfast pastry from a bakery. Impress your family and friends with your new donut skills!
To make 18 delicious Bavarian cream donuts, you need a few ingredients. You’ll need 5 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of white sugar, and 2 packs of active dry yeast. Also, 1 cup of whole milk, 2 large eggs, ⅔ stick of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt for the dough. For the Bavarian cream filling, you’ll need 1 cup of heavy cream, 3 egg yolks, ¼ cup of white sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ⅓ stick of butter.
First, activate the yeast in warm milk. Then, mix the dough ingredients until it’s soft and pliable. Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size. While it proofs, make the Bavarian cream filling by whisking ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Chill the cream for at least 2 hours before using.
After the dough rises, roll it out and cut into donut shapes. Let the donuts proof for another 45 minutes. Then, fry them in vegetable oil heated between 325°F and 350°F for 1-2 minutes per side until golden. Cool the glazed donuts slightly before filling them with the Bavarian cream using a piping bag.
Ingredient | Amount |
All-purpose flour | 5 cups (600g) |
White sugar (for donuts) | ½ cup (100g) |
Active dry yeast | 2 packs (14g) |
Whole milk (for donuts) | 1 cup (240ml) |
Large eggs | 2 |
Melted butter (for donuts) | ⅔ stick (80g) |
Salt (for donuts) | 1 teaspoon |
Making these Bavarian cream donuts takes about 3 hours. But the effort is worth it. With patience and practice, you’ll make filled donuts that everyone will love!
Mastering the Art of Frying Donuts
Frying is key to making perfect bavarian donuts with a tasty donut cream filling. To get that golden-brown color and crispy outside, keep the oil temperature steady. Also, don’t overcrowd the frying pan.
A golden-brown, freshly fried donut rests on a crisp, white surface. Its glistening exterior gives way to a soft, pillowy center filled with a rich, creamy custard. Delicate flecks of vanilla bean are visible throughout the luscious filling. Rays of warm light dance across the donut’s surface, casting subtle shadows and highlights that accentuate its perfect form. The scene is captured with a shallow depth of field, keeping the donut in sharp focus while the background gently blurs, creating a sense of indulgence and temptation.
The best oil temperature for frying donuts is between 350°F and 375°F (177°C to 191°C). This ensures your cream-filled donut cooks evenly and stays light and crispy. Use a deep-fry thermometer to check the oil temperature while frying.
Maintaining Consistent Oil Temperature
To keep the oil temperature stable, don’t fry too many donuts at once. Too many can lower the temperature, making donuts greasy and undercooked. Fry in small batches to cook evenly.
Avoiding Overcrowding the Frying Pan
When frying bavarian donuts, make sure each donut has enough space. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and a bad texture. Fry 3-4 donuts at a time, depending on your pan size.
Achieving the Perfect Golden-Brown Color
To get that golden-brown color, fry the donuts for the right time. Each donut should fry for 1-2 minutes on each side. Watch them closely and adjust the time as needed for the perfect color and crispness.
Frying Temperature | Frying Time per Side | Donuts per Batch |
350°F to 365°F | 1-2 minutes | 3-4 donuts |
Mastering frying will help you make irresistible custard-filled pastry treats. Remember, patience and precision are crucial for the perfect donut cream filling and crispy outside.
Filling Bavarian Cream Donuts Like a Pro
Indulge in the ultimate sweet indulgence by mastering the art of filling Bavarian cream donuts. These irresistible fried dough desserts are elevated to new heights with a silky-smooth vanilla custard. This custard perfectly complements the light and fluffy dough. While these calorie-rich snacks may be a treat, the satisfaction of biting into a expertly filled Bavarian cream donut is unmatched.
Preparing the Silky-Smooth Vanilla Custard
The key to a heavenly Bavarian cream filling lies in the preparation of the vanilla custard. You’ll need 1/4 cup of cold water, 1 tablespoon of powdered gelatin, 1 1/2 cups of half-and-half, 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, 3 egg yolks, 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract or paste. Whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Then, gradually pour in the heated half-and-half while whisking constantly.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it reaches 185°F (85°C). It should thicken to a pudding-like consistency.
Using a Piping Bag for Easy, Mess-Free Filling
Once your Bavarian cream custard has cooled, it’s time to fill your donuts. For a professional touch and mess-free process, use a piping bag fitted with a bismark tip. This specialized tool allows you to cleanly and efficiently inject about 30-35g of the silky custard into each donut. Simply insert the tip into the side of the donut, squeeze gently, and watch as the Bavarian cream fills the center of your fried dough dessert.
Ingredient | Amount |
Cold water | 1/4 cup |
Powdered gelatin | 1 tablespoon |
Half-and-half | 1 1/2 cups |
Granulated sugar | 6 tablespoons |
Cornstarch | 3 tablespoons |
Egg yolks | 3 |
Butter | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
Pure vanilla extract or paste | 2 teaspoons |
Decorating and Serving Bavarian Cream Donuts
After filling your donuts with Bavarian cream, it’s time to add the final touches. A light dusting of powdered sugar turns these breakfast pastries into stunning treats. They’re sure to wow anyone who tries them.

A freshly baked, golden-brown glazed donut, its surface glistening with a smooth, shiny glaze. The donut is cut in half, revealing a creamy, luscious Bavarian cream filling that oozes out, its rich, custard-like texture complementing the light and airy donut. Soft natural lighting highlights the delicate details, casting gentle shadows that accentuate the donut’s inviting shape. The donut is placed on a clean, neutral-colored surface, allowing the viewer to focus solely on the decadent and visually appealing treat. An elegant and classic composition that captures the essence of a beautifully crafted Bavarian cream donut.
For a classic look, place the Bavarian cream donuts on a platter. Sprinkle powdered sugar over them just before serving. This adds a sweet touch and a beautiful contrast to the donuts’ golden color.
For a more indulgent treat, try drizzling them with chocolate glaze. Melt 8 oz of chopped semi-sweet chocolate with ½ cup of heavy cream until smooth. Dip each donut in the glaze, letting the extra glaze drip off before setting them aside.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Semi-sweet chocolate, chopped | 8 oz (225g) |
Heavy cream | ½ cup (120ml) |
Enjoy these Bavarian cream donuts while they’re still warm. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect treat. Their fluffy dough, creamy filling, and sweet toppings make them a hit in any home.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Bavarian Cream Donuts
After enjoying your bavarian donuts, you might have some left. It’s important to store them right to keep them fresh. Unfilled donuts can be frozen, but cream-filled ones like Bavarian cream need extra care.
For leftover Bavarian cream donuts, put them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the donut cream filling soft and the dough from getting soggy. Don’t freeze them, as the custard can get too runny and the pastry too moist when thawed.
Keeping Donuts Fresh in an Airtight Container
Make sure your bavarian donuts are cool before storing them in an airtight container or Ziplock bag. This stops moisture from making the donuts soggy. If you have glazed donuts, stack them carefully to prevent the glaze from sticking.
Reheating for Optimal Texture and Flavor
To warm up your Bavarian cream donuts, follow these easy steps:
- Put the donut on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat on high for 10-15 seconds.
- Check if it’s warm and soft. If not, heat in 5-second bursts until it is.
- Enjoy your warm Bavarian cream donut, with its creamy filling and soft pastry.
By using these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your bavarian donuts longer. Remember, taking good care of them is key to keeping their quality and flavor.
Donut Bavarian Cream: Understanding the Classic Filling
Bavarian cream donuts are a sweet treat among fried dough desserts. Their rich, velvety filling makes them stand out. But what makes this filling so special?
Ingredients That Make Bavarian Cream Special
The Bavarian cream’s creamy texture and taste come from its ingredients. It’s made with milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla extract. The milk is heated to 185°F (85°C) until it coats the back of a spoon.
This ensures the cream is thick and creamy. The recipe uses 2 large egg yolks for richness and stability. Cornstarch, about 2 tablespoons, thickens the filling further, making it smooth yet firm.
Difference Between Bavarian Cream and Other Custards
Bavarian cream is different from other custard fillings. It’s firmer and more stable, thanks to cornstarch. This makes it hold its shape well when piped into donuts.
The mix of milk, sugar, and vanilla gives it a sweet and aromatic flavor. This flavor complements the fried dough perfectly. The result is a perfect balance of taste and texture, making Bavarian cream donuts a favorite treat.
FAQ
What makes Bavarian Cream Donuts different from other filled donuts?
Bavarian Cream Donuts stand out with their creamy vanilla filling. It’s firmer than Boston Cream Donuts. The donuts are covered in powdered sugar, offering a sweet contrast to the airy dough and rich cream.
What ingredients do I need to make perfect Bavarian Cream Donuts at home?
To make perfect Bavarian Cream Donuts, you’ll need quality flour, sugar, and sea salt. You’ll also need milk, yeast, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, cornstarch, frying oil, and powdered sugar. Each ingredient is key to the donuts’ texture and taste.
How do I master the art of frying donuts?
To fry donuts well, keep the oil at 345-355°F (174-179°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side. Use parchment paper to prevent the dough from deflating.
What’s the best way to fill Bavarian Cream Donuts?
To fill Bavarian Cream Donuts, start by making the vanilla custard. Heat milk, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch, and cook until it reaches 185°F (85°C). Cool it down. Then, use a piping bag to fill each donut with 30-35g of cream.
How should I store leftover Bavarian Cream Donuts?
Keep leftover Bavarian Cream Donuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave them for 20-30 seconds. Enjoy them warm for the best taste and texture.
What makes the Bavarian cream filling special?
The Bavarian cream filling is special because of its ingredients. It’s made with milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla extract. This mix creates a smooth, rich custard. The cornstarch makes it firmer than regular pastry cream.
Source Links
- Bavarian Cream Pie – Curly Girl Kitchen
- 38+ Best European Desserts That Are Irresistible
- Irresistible Bavarian Doughnut Recipe: The Ultimate Guide for Perfect Pastries – WiViva
- Types of Donuts
- The Great Divide: Boston Cream vs Bavarian Cream Ingredients – THE CAKE LADY LLC
- Bavarian Cream Vs Boston Cream: What’s The Difference?
- Bavarian Cream Donuts
- Sourdough Doughnut Recipe with Bavarian Cream Filling
- Delicious Bavarian Cream Doughnuts: A Sweet Treat
- Pepples Donut Farm
- Bomboloni vs. Donuts vs. Berliners: What Are the Differences?
- Bavarian Cream Donut
- Bavarian Vs Boston Cream: Is There A Big Difference?
- Boston Cream Donuts
- Can You Freeze Donuts?
- How To Store Doughnut So They’re Not Stale The Next Day
- Homemade Bavarian Cream Donuts – Better Than Bakery – Recipes by Clare
- Bavarian Cream Doughnuts with Apricot Preserves – Curly Girl Kitchen