Bavarian Cream Donuts

The first bite of a Bavarian Cream Donut is like a cozy embrace for your taste buds. The soft, pillowy dough melts away to reveal the creamy filling that’s rich yet light, with just a hint of vanilla sweetness. That velvety texture of the cream perfectly complements the slight crispness of the golden fried dough. The balance is flawless—neither the cream nor the donut steals the show, but instead, they work together to create a flavor that’s utterly comforting and satisfying.

What’s even better is the versatility of the filling. Some recipes call for a smooth, custard-like Bavarian cream, while others use a lighter whipped cream base, both offering their own take on the classic. You might even find yourself taking an extra second to savor the layers, feeling the way the cream and dough intermingle in the most delightful way.

I have to admit, there’s something incredibly nostalgic about these donuts. They remind me of the mornings I spent in the kitchen as a kid, attempting to perfect a doughnut recipe with my mom. We would always make the filling extra creamy, because, after all, what’s the point of Bavarian Cream Donuts without that lush, decadent cream? If you haven’t made them yourself yet, trust me when I say that the process is as satisfying as the final result. There’s nothing quite like biting into one fresh out of the fryer, with that creamy center spilling out and adding a little extra indulgence to your day.

Key Ingredients in Bavarian Cream Donuts

Every great recipe starts with the right ingredients, and Bavarian Cream Donuts are no exception. These ingredients work together to create a doughnut that’s soft, sweet, and indulgent, with a perfectly smooth filling that’s hard to resist.

All-purpose flour
The foundation of the dough, all-purpose flour gives the donut its structure, contributing to that pillowy texture when fried. It absorbs the liquids and helps create the right balance of fluffiness.

Sugar
Sugar sweetens the dough and helps the donuts achieve that golden-brown exterior during frying. It also adds a subtle sweetness to the dough itself, which pairs wonderfully with the cream filling.

Salt
A pinch of salt balances the sweetness of the dough, enhancing the overall flavor and providing contrast to the richness of the cream.

Instant yeast
This is the magic behind the dough’s rise. Instant yeast helps the dough rise quickly, ensuring a light and airy texture once the donuts are fried.

Ground nutmeg
A warm, slightly spicy flavor that adds depth to the dough. Nutmeg gives the donuts a hint of comforting warmth, which complements the sweet filling beautifully.

Whole milk
Whole milk helps hydrate the dough and adds a richness that contributes to the soft, tender crumb. It also plays a role in creating a smooth consistency in the Bavarian cream filling.

Water
Water combines with the milk to hydrate the flour, forming the perfect dough. It’s essential for the right consistency without overwhelming the flavor of the donut.

Large eggs
Eggs provide structure and richness to the dough. They help bind the ingredients together while adding flavor and moisture.

Unsalted butter
Butter makes the dough extra soft and rich. Its creamy texture helps the donut remain tender and adds a subtle richness to the flavor.

Vanilla extract
The essence of vanilla lends a sweet, fragrant flavor that enhances both the dough and the filling, tying everything together in a deliciously comforting way.

Vegetable oil (for frying)
Vegetable oil ensures the donuts fry up crispy and golden without absorbing too much oil, leaving them light on the inside while providing a satisfying crunch on the outside.

Heavy cream
Heavy cream is the star of the Bavarian cream filling. It creates a rich, velvety texture that’s both smooth and luxurious, making every bite feel indulgent.

Sugar
A bit of sugar in the filling sweetens the cream, creating that perfect balance between the rich creaminess and the delicate sweetness that’s so comforting.

Vanilla extract
Like in the dough, vanilla extract in the filling adds a fragrant sweetness, elevating the cream’s flavor and complementing the donut’s dough.

Cornstarch
Cornstarch helps thicken the Bavarian cream filling, giving it that luxurious, custard-like consistency without being too heavy or gloopy.

Whole milk
Whole milk in the filling adds creaminess and smoothness, helping to create a velvety texture while balancing out the richness of the heavy cream.

Large egg yolks
Egg yolks are essential in creating that smooth, custard-like texture. They add richness and help bind the cream filling together beautifully.

Sugar
Sugar in the filling provides sweetness, ensuring that the Bavarian cream doesn’t overwhelm the donut’s flavor but instead enhances the overall dessert.

Butter
A little butter in the filling rounds out the richness, giving the cream a silky smooth finish that’s just perfect for the donuts.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla in the filling brings that familiar, comforting flavor, tying all the creamy elements together for a delightful filling that complements the donut’s texture.

How to Make Bavarian Cream Donuts

Serving Suggestions for Bavarian Cream Donuts

1. Pair with a Hot Cup of Coffee
There’s just something magical about the combination of warm, freshly fried donuts and a rich cup of coffee. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a creamy latte, the slight bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the Bavarian cream, creating the perfect breakfast or afternoon treat. Trust me, it’s the kind of pairing that makes you feel like you’re indulging at a cozy café.

2. Add Fresh Fruit for a Pop of Brightness
If you’re looking to add a bit of freshness, serve your Bavarian cream donuts with a side of fresh berries. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries work especially well, cutting through the richness of the cream with their natural tartness. It’s a little contrast that brings out the best in both the donut and the fruit, plus the colors just make the whole thing look more irresistible.

3. Serve with a Dollop of Whipped Cream
For those who like their desserts extra indulgent (guilty!), top each Bavarian cream donut with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A light, airy topping adds a dreamy finish and makes these donuts feel like a luxurious treat. You could even add a hint of cinnamon or vanilla to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, it’s the little touches that elevate the whole experience!

How to Store Bavarian Cream Donuts

Once you’ve made these irresistible Bavarian Cream Donuts, you may want to store them for later, but keeping them fresh and delicious can be a bit of a challenge. The trick is to preserve that crisp exterior and the creamy filling without compromising flavor. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare), the best way to store them is by wrapping each donut individually in wax paper or parchment paper. This helps protect the cream from spilling out and keeps the donuts from getting too soggy. Place the wrapped donuts in an airtight container, and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, heat them up gently in the microwave for just a few seconds—this will revive that soft dough and creamy center. If you want to bring back that crispy outer layer, consider popping them in the oven for a minute or two at 350°F to warm them up. The donut will feel almost like it’s fresh from the fryer, and you’ll get that delicious contrast between the warm dough and chilled cream.

However, if you have extra filling left over, store it in a separate airtight container in the fridge. You can easily pipe it into the donuts just before serving, keeping everything fresh and perfectly balanced. Just make sure the filling is chilled when you use it again, as it helps maintain the smooth and rich consistency.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about Bavarian Cream Donuts, isn’t there? The warm, golden dough paired with that smooth, indulgent filling is like a little moment of joy with every bite. From the simple yet satisfying ingredients to the hands-on process of making them, these donuts bring both comfort and a touch of nostalgia—whether you’re baking them solo or sharing the fun with loved ones.

I hope this recipe inspires you to give it a try and make your kitchen smell like heaven! Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee, some fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream, these donuts are bound to make your day a little bit sweeter.

I’d love to hear your thoughts if you try making these Bavarian Cream Donuts yourself! Got any questions about the recipe, or maybe a suggestion to make them even better? Drop me a comment or share your experience—I’m always here to chat!

Print Recipe

Bavarian Cream Donuts

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 45 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 2 hrs 15 mins

Calories: 420

Description

Soft, pillowy donuts filled with rich, velvety Bavarian cream that melts in your mouth. With a light dusting of powdered sugar, every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and smoothness, making them irresistibly delicious and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• ¹⁄₄ cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons instant yeast

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ³⁄₄ cup whole milk

• ¹⁄₄ cup water

• 2 large eggs

• ¹⁄₄ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• ¹⁄₂ cup whole milk

• 2 large egg yolks

• ¹⁄₄ cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon butter

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and ground nutmeg.
2. Warm the whole milk and water together in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches about 110°F, then remove from heat.
3. Add the warm milk mixture to the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Add the eggs to the dough mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract to the dough and knead the mixture until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes.
6. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
7. While the dough is rising, make the Bavarian cream filling. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat until it starts to simmer, but do not allow it to boil.
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, whole milk, egg yolks, and sugar until smooth.
9. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while continuously whisking to temper the eggs.
10. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency.
11. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
12. Transfer the Bavarian cream to a clean bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour.
13. After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air.
14. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
15. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out donut shapes from the dough.
16. Place the cut donuts on a floured baking sheet, leaving space between each donut. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes, or until puffed up.
17. While the donuts are rising, heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or frying pan to 350°F.
18. Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
19. Remove the donuts from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
20. Once the donuts are slightly cooled but still warm, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to fill them with the chilled Bavarian cream.
21. Sprinkle the donuts with powdered sugar or glaze them with a simple sugar glaze, if desired.
22. Serve the Bavarian cream donuts immediately while still fresh and enjoy!

Note

• For a lighter texture, ensure the dough is kneaded well but not overworked.
• You can substitute the whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• For a richer Bavarian cream, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
• Keep the oil temperature steady at 350°F for even frying and golden donuts.
• Bavarian cream can be flavored with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for variety.

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