Imagine sinking your teeth into a donut that’s not just any donut but a delightful fusion of two luxurious desserts—donuts and crème brûlée. The warm, soft texture of a baked donut meets the rich, creamy flavor of crème brûlée, finished with a caramelized sugar glaze that shatters perfectly as you bite into it. With these glazed baked crème brûlée donuts, you can recreate the magic of a French patisserie in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Glazed Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

These donuts are a true treat for your senses. They’re baked, not fried, making them a lighter option. The combination of creamy custard flavors, golden-baked dough, and a crackling caramelized glaze makes this dessert truly special. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, dessert, or a mid-day indulgence, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients for Glazed Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Here’s everything you need to make these luxurious donuts:

Component	Ingredient	Quantity
Donut Batter	All-purpose flour	2 cups
	Baking powder	2 tsp
	Salt	¼ tsp
	Unsalted butter, melted	4 tbsp
	Granulated sugar	½ cup
	Brown sugar	¼ cup
	Vanilla extract	1 tsp
	Milk	¾ cup
	Large egg	1
Custard Filling	Egg yolks	4
	Granulated sugar	⅓ cup
	Heavy cream	1 cup
	Vanilla bean paste or extract	1 tsp
Caramel Glaze	Granulated sugar	½ cup
	Water	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions for Glazed Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

1. Preheat Your Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a donut pan or use nonstick spray to ensure easy release.

2. Prepare the Donut Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the batter is smooth.

3. Fill the Donut Pan and Bake

1. Spoon the batter into a piping bag for easy filling, or carefully spoon it into the prepared donut pan.
2. Fill each cavity about ¾ full to ensure even baking.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the donuts spring back when touched.

4. Make the Custard Filling

1. In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale.
2. Gradually add the heavy cream and vanilla bean paste, stirring constantly.
3. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Let the custard cool completely, then transfer it to a piping bag with a small nozzle.

5. Fill the Donuts

1. Once the donuts are cool, use a small knife or piping tip to create a hole in each donut.
2. Pipe the custard filling into the center of each donut.

6. Prepare the Caramel Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it caramelize until golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

7. Glaze the Donuts

1. Dip the tops of the filled donuts into the caramel glaze.
2. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Glazed Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

1. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts. Mix until just combined.
2. Cool Completely Before Filling: Warm donuts can melt the custard, making them messy.
3. Work Quickly with Caramel: The glaze hardens fast, so dip the donuts promptly after making it.
4. Use High-Quality Vanilla: Vanilla bean paste adds an authentic crème brûlée flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Donut)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	38g
Protein	4g
Sugar	22g

Why These Donuts Are a Game-Changer

Unlike traditional fried donuts, baked donuts are lighter and less greasy, making them an excellent option for those who want to indulge without the heaviness. The custard filling and caramel glaze elevate these donuts into something truly luxurious, making them a standout dessert.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Crème Brûlée Donuts

• Add cocoa powder to the batter and a chocolate custard filling for a rich twist.

2. Spiced Caramel Donuts

• Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter and add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel glaze.

3. Citrus Custard Donuts

• Add orange or lemon zest to the custard filling for a refreshing tang.

Serving Suggestions for Glazed Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

• With Coffee: Pair these donuts with a rich espresso or cappuccino for a decadent breakfast.
• For Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• At Brunch: Add them to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and mimosas.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
Yes! Use a muffin tin and shape the batter into rings using parchment paper molds.

2. How should I store leftover donuts?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

3. Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, but freeze them before glazing. Thaw at room temperature and glaze just before serving.

4. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of whole milk and melted butter.

5. Can I skip the caramel glaze?
While the glaze is key to the crème brûlée experience, you can dust the donuts with powdered sugar instead.

6. Can I make the custard filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate the custard up to 2 days in advance.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Twist You Can’t Miss

Glazed baked crème brûlée donuts are a dessert lover’s dream, combining the best elements of crème brûlée and donuts. They’re soft, rich, and indulgent, with a crackly caramel topping that makes them unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, these donuts are sure to impress.

Ready to indulge? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a luxurious twist on donuts that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Happy baking!

Print