Indulge in the delightful flavors of these Traditional Oven-Baked Custard Doughnuts. Inspired by classic Italian pastry techniques, these doughnuts are crafted from a delicate choux pastry and generously filled with smooth, rich custard. This baked version offers a lighter alternative to the traditional fried pastry, providing a perfect balance of airy texture and creamy filling.
Why You’ll Love This: These custard doughnuts are perfect for those who appreciate the elegance of European pastries without the heaviness of frying. The choux pastry puffs up in the oven, creating a light shell that is beautifully complemented by the velvety custard inside. Each bite is a blend of subtle sweetness and buttery richness, making these doughnuts a refined treat for any dessert lover.
Perfect Occasion: These doughnuts are ideal for any gathering or celebration where you want to impress your guests with something a bit special. They are great for afternoon tea, brunches, or as a sophisticated dessert at dinner parties. Their elegant appearance and exquisite taste make them suitable for holiday celebrations or as a luxurious weekend treat.
Decoration Tips: Before serving, dust the doughnuts with powdered sugar for a classic finish. For a festive touch, you can drizzle them with a light glaze or top them with a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest to complement the custard. Presenting them on a vintage cake stand or a platter lined with lace doilies can enhance their charm and appeal.
Ingredients:
- 120 grams of water
- 100 grams of eggs (about 2 medium)
- 75 grams of all-purpose flour
- 60 grams of butter
- A pinch of salt
- For the custard:
- 500 milliliters of milk
- 2 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or potato starch
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the water, butter, and a pinch of salt to a boil. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour all at once with a whisk.
- Return the pan to the heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture dries slightly and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer to a mixer with a paddle attachment. Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Once the dough is glossy and smooth, spoon it into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
- Pipe the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming rings.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 220 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius and continue baking for 30-35 minutes until puffed and golden.
- For the custard, mix milk, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, flour, and lemon zest in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Once the doughnuts are cool, fill them with the custard using a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve.
Enjoy these luxurious Traditional Oven-Baked Custard Doughnuts, a delightful treat that brings a taste of Italian elegance to your table!