Brioche Donuts with Vanilla Custard Filling

Soft, sweet, and perfect for fall gatherings

When the crisp air of fall rolls in, there’s nothing cozier than filling your kitchen with the aroma of fresh brioche donuts. These golden, sugar-dusted treats are filled with a creamy vanilla custard that feels like the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re planning a holiday brunch, a Halloween party dessert for adults, or simply want a gourmet fall dessert to enjoy with coffee, this recipe is pure comfort.

Made with enriched brioche dough, these donuts are light yet rich, soft yet satisfying, and oh-so-pretty on a dessert table. Best of all, they’re versatile—swap in chocolate cream, pumpkin spice custard, or fruit jam for endless fall-inspired recipes. If you’re looking for the best fall baking recipes to impress, these brioche donuts are your answer. 🍩✨

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)
• Cook Time: 6 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 4 hours (including chilling & rising)
• Servings: 16 donuts

📝 Ingredients List

For the Brioche Dough:

• 1 packet active dry yeast (or 1 cup sourdough starter for variation)
• ½ cup warm whole milk (about 100°F)
• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup cane sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

• ½ cup cane sugar
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For Frying & Coating:

• Oil for frying (coconut oil or vegetable oil)
• ½ cup sugar for rolling

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Stand mixer (or mixing bowls + strong arms 💪)
• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Bench scraper
• Candy thermometer
• Piping bag (or Ziploc bag with tip cut off)
• Wire rack + baking sheet

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
   Warm milk to about 100°F. Stir in yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
2. Make the Dough
   In a stand mixer, add flour, sugar, eggs, salt, and yeast mixture. Mix until dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Incorporate Butter
   Add butter gradually, mixing until smooth, glossy, and elastic.
4. First Rise
   Shape dough into a ball, cover, and let rise for 1 hour (or until doubled).
5. Chill Overnight
   Punch down dough, cover, and refrigerate overnight for easier shaping.
6. Shape the Donuts
   Divide dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined tray. Cover and let rise 1–2 hours.
7. Fry to Golden Perfection
   Heat oil to 350°F. Fry 3–4 donuts at a time, 3 minutes per side, until golden. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on wire rack.
8. Coat in Sugar
   While still slightly warm, roll donuts in sugar for that perfect sparkle ✨.
9. Make the Vanilla Custard
   In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Slowly whisk in milk. Cook over medium heat until thick. Stir in vanilla and butter. Chill 30–60 minutes.
10. Fill & Serve
    Pipe custard into each donut until full and fluffy. Serve immediately—or enjoy with a warm cup of cider or coffee. ☕🍂

💡 Pro Tips

• Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Make Ahead: Fry donuts in advance and fill right before serving for the freshest texture.
• Flavor Twist: Try pumpkin custard, cinnamon sugar coating, or even chocolate ganache filling.
• Serving Idea: Stack on a cake stand with a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty fall dessert display.

📊 Nutrition Table

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Please consult a nutritionist for exact values