Why You’ll Love Homemade Boston Cream Doughnuts Recipe

These homemade Boston Cream Doughnuts offer the perfect blend of textures and flavors: soft, airy doughnuts filled with silky pastry cream and topped with a rich chocolate glaze. Making them at home allows you to enjoy them fresh and customize the sweetness and size to your liking. It’s a fun and rewarding baking project for any dessert lover.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Doughnuts:

2 packets (.25 oz) active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (100°F)
1 1/4 cups room temperature milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp vanilla extract
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
Corn oil for frying

For the Cream Filling:

4 egg yolks
1 cup sugar
4 tbsp cornstarch
2 cups milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Glaze:

Powdered sugar
Cocoa powder
Salt
Water

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add milk, eggs, sugar, butter, vanilla, flour, and salt. Mix and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
Shape and Fry Doughnuts: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Cut into round shapes using a cutter, avoiding holes in the center. Let them rise briefly, then fry in heated corn oil at 350°F until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Cream Filling: In a saucepan, whisk sugar and cornstarch into milk and cook over medium heat until warm. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly add some of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to temper, then return all to the saucepan. Cook until thick, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool completely in the fridge.
Assemble the Doughnuts: Once the doughnuts are cool, fill each one with the chilled cream using a piping bag with a small nozzle.
Prepare the Chocolate Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt with water until smooth and glossy.
Finish the Doughnuts: Dip the top of each filled doughnut into the chocolate glaze and allow to set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 15–18 doughnuts.
Prep time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Mini Boston Cream Bites: Cut smaller circles and make bite-sized versions perfect for parties.
Chocolate Cream Filling: Swap out the vanilla pastry cream for a rich chocolate version.
Baked Option: Although traditionally fried, you can bake the doughnuts at 375°F until golden for a lighter version.
Coffee Glaze: Add espresso powder to the glaze for a mocha twist.
Fruit-Filled: Add a small layer of raspberry jam before piping in the custard for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store doughnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) to soften, but be aware the glaze may melt. For best texture, enjoy fresh.

FAQs

How do I know when the dough is properly kneaded?

The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it bounces back when pressed lightly, it’s ready.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in equal amounts. Skip the blooming step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Do I need a deep fryer to make these?

No, a heavy-bottomed pot and a thermometer work just as well for frying.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying.

How do I fill the doughnuts easily?

Use a piping bag with a long narrow tip to inject the filling into the center of each doughnut.

Is the cream filling the same as pastry cream?

Yes, it’s a classic pastry cream made with milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Corn oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil all work well due to their high smoke points and neutral flavor.

Can I freeze Boston Cream Doughnuts?

It’s best not to freeze filled doughnuts, as the cream texture may change. However, you can freeze the unfilled, unfrosted doughnuts and assemble later.

What if I don’t have cornstarch for the cream?

You can use flour as a thickener, though the texture will be slightly different.

How can I make the glaze shinier?

Add a small amount of corn syrup to the glaze for a glossy finish.

Conclusion

Homemade Boston Cream Doughnuts are a satisfying and luxurious treat that brings together tender fried dough, smooth vanilla custard, and rich chocolate glaze. While they take a bit of time and care, the result is absolutely worth the effort. Whether for a weekend baking project or a special dessert, these doughnuts are sure to impress.

Homemade Boston Cream Doughnuts