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Plate of golden Bavarian cream donuts dusted with vanilla sugar, arranged on a rustic wooden table in warm natural light.

Bavarian Cream Donut

Indulge in these airy, soft brioche donuts filled with a luscious Bavarian cream—a smooth blend of custard and whipped cream, dusted with vanilla sugar for that perfect sweet finish. Enjoy a delightful treat that’s both elegant and satisfying!
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
dough proofing and chilling filling 4 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine German-inspired
Servings 18 Donuts
Calories 396 kcal

Ingredients
  

Brioche Donut Dough:

  • 4 1/2 cups 540g all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp 7g instant yeast
  • 3 Tbsp 36g granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks room temperature
  • 1/2 cup 113g salted butter, softened
  • 1 cup 8oz warm water

For Coating:

  • 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon and/or 1/2 tsp vanilla powder

Custard (Filling Base):

  • 3 large egg yolks room temperature
  • 1/2 cup 100g granulated sugar
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup 180mL whole milk
  • 2 Tbsp 28g salted butter, softened

Whipped Cream:

  • 1 1/3 cups 300mL heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup 30g powdered sugar

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large bowl, mix 4 1/2 cups flour, 2 1/4 tsp yeast, 3 Tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp salt.
  • Add 2 large eggs, 2 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup softened butter, and 1 cup warm water.
  • Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for 10–15 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

Shape the Dough:

  • Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface.
  • Divide the dough in half, roll each half into a log, and cut into equal pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a tight ball and arrange them on a parchment-lined tray.
  • Cover and let proof for 30–60 minutes until slightly puffed.

Fry the Donuts:

  • Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 360°F (182°C).
  • Fry the dough balls in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and immediately toss with a mix of 1 cup granulated sugar and cinnamon or vanilla powder.

Craft the Bavarian Cream Filling:

  • In a saucepan, whisk 3 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/8 tsp salt; slowly add 3/4 cup whole milk.
  • Cook over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes until thickened, whisking continuously.
  • Remove from heat, stir in 2 Tbsp softened butter, and let cool completely (chill if desired).
  • In a chilled bowl, whip 1 1/3 cups heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar to stiff peaks.
  • Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard until smooth.

Assemble the Donuts:

  • Allow the fried donuts to cool completely.
  • Using a piping bag, carefully fill each donut with the Bavarian cream filling.
  • Optionally, dust with extra vanilla sugar before serving.
Keyword Bavarian Cream Donut