There’s something irresistible about homemade coconut cream filled donuts. This coconut cream filled donuts recipe combines light, fluffy donuts with a rich, tropical coconut cream filling, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a decadent dessert that everyone will love.
This comprehensive guide will show you how to make these delectable donuts from scratch, offering tips, variations, and plenty of details to ensure you get it just right. By the time you finish, your kitchen will smell like a bakery, and you’ll have a batch of deliciously filled donuts to enjoy!
Why Make This Easy Coconut Cream Filled Donuts Recipe?
Donuts have long been a favorite treat across the world, but filled donuts take it to another level. The soft, fried dough encases a sweet, creamy filling, and in this case, we’re using coconut cream for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence. Coconut cream adds a unique richness, complementing the lightness of the donut perfectly.
Coconut is often used in tropical desserts, and for a good reason. It brings a mild sweetness and a rich texture that pairs wonderfully with pastries. Combining coconut cream with the classic donut structure creates a dessert that’s not too heavy but still packed with flavor. Plus, with this recipe, you’ll have the opportunity to learn some key baking and frying techniques.
Ingredients Needed for the Best Coconut Cream Filled Donuts Recipe
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Having everything prepared beforehand will make the entire process more efficient and enjoyable.
Donut Dough for Coconut Cream Filled Donuts Recipe:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Coconut Cream Filling for the Donuts Recipe:
- 1 ¼ cups coconut milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Shredded coconut flakes
- Chocolate glaze
Equipment Needed:
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Rolling pin
- Donut cutter
- Piping bag
- Thermometer (for checking oil temperature)
Step 1: Preparing the Dough for Your Coconut Cream Filled Donuts Recipe
Making the perfect donut dough is crucial to achieving that soft, airy texture that makes these donuts irresistible. Yeast-based dough provides a fluffy interior and a slight chew that pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut filling.
- Activate the yeast: Start by dissolving the yeast in warm milk. The temperature should be around 110°F — warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot to kill it. Let the yeast sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial because it ensures that the yeast is alive and will help the dough rise properly.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sugar, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. Slowly add in the yeast mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but still manageable.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. Proper kneading is essential for developing the gluten, which gives the donuts their structure and softness.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to work its magic, creating light and airy donuts.
For more tips on working with dough and achieving the perfect texture, check out this guide to sourdough discard recipes.
Step 2: Shaping and Frying Your Cream Filled Coconut Donuts
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape and fry the donuts. Frying donuts gives them that classic crispy exterior with a soft, airy inside.
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out circles of dough. If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use a round glass or cookie cutter.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat your oil to 350°F. Maintaining the right oil temperature is critical to ensure that the donuts cook evenly and don’t become greasy.
- Fry the donuts: Fry the donuts in small batches, cooking them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donuts. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Frying is an essential part of making traditional donuts. For a healthier alternative, you could opt to bake the donuts at 350°F for 10-12 minutes instead, though they won’t have the same crispy exterior.
Step 3: Making the Perfect Coconut Cream Filling for Your Donuts Recipe
The coconut cream filling is what sets these donuts apart. A rich and creamy filling is key to making this coconut cream filled donuts recipe extra indulgent.
Thicken the cream: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until it thickens, stirring constantly. Once it thickens, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
For a more detailed take on how to create the perfect coconut cream filling, check out this helpful guide from Cooking Channel TV.
Heat the coconut milk: In a saucepan, bring the coconut milk to a simmer over medium heat.
Whisk egg yolks and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Temper the eggs: Slowly pour the hot coconut milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Step 4: Filling Your Homemade Coconut Cream Donuts
Now that your donuts have cooled and the coconut cream is ready, it’s time to fill your donuts.
- Prepare the piping bag: Fit a piping bag with a small round nozzle and fill it with the chilled coconut cream. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
- Poke holes in the donuts: Use a small knife or a chopstick to make a small hole in the side of each donut. This hole is where you’ll insert the coconut cream filling.
- Fill the donuts: Insert the piping bag nozzle into the hole and gently squeeze to fill the donut with coconut cream. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the cream to spill out.
Step 5: Topping Ideas for Coconut Custard Filled Donuts
Once your donuts are filled, you can add toppings to give them an extra special touch. Here are a few ideas:
- Powdered sugar: Dust the tops of your donuts with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
- Shredded coconut: Roll the tops of the donuts in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate glaze: Drizzle a simple chocolate glaze over the tops of your donuts for an indulgent touch.
For more dessert inspiration, check out this banana brownies recipe, which makes a perfect pairing with your coconut-filled donuts.
Step 6: Serving and Storing Your Coconut Cream Filled Donuts
Your coconut cream filled donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later as well.
- Serving: These donuts are best served at room temperature or slightly warm. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked texture.
- Storing: Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them for longer, place them in the refrigerator, but note that this may affect the texture of the donut.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Coconut Cream Filled Donuts
Achieving the perfect coconut cream filled donuts requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
- Check your oil temperature: Too hot, and your donuts will burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Too cold, and they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Don’t over-knead the dough: Overworking the dough can make the donuts tough. Aim for smooth and elastic, but not overly stiff.
- Use full-fat coconut milk: The creamier the coconut milk, the richer the filling will be. You can even use coconut cream for an extra thick filling.
Variations of Coconut Cream Filled Donuts
If you’re looking to change things up, here are a few delicious variations on the classic coconut cream filled donuts recipe:
- Lemon Coconut Cream Donuts: Add the zest of one lemon to the coconut cream for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Glazed Coconut Cream Donuts: After filling the donuts, dip the tops in a simple chocolate glaze for a decadent finish.
- Vegan Coconut Cream Donuts: Use plant-based milk and egg substitutes for the dough, and swap the eggs in the coconut cream filling with a vegan custard alternative.
For more variation ideas, take a look at this pumpkin muffins recipe.
FAQs
What is the difference between coconut milk and coconut cream?
Coconut cream is thicker and contains more fat than coconut milk, making it ideal for rich dessert fillings like the one in this recipe.
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
Yes! You can bake the donuts at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, although they won’t have the same crispy exterior as fried donuts.
How long can coconut cream-filled donuts be stored?
They are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them, but the dough may lose some of its softness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Simply substitute the dairy and eggs with vegan alternatives, such as almond milk and a flax egg substitute.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making coconut cream filled donuts at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to enjoy a bakery-quality treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. From preparing the soft, airy dough to creating the rich and luscious coconut cream filling, each step builds toward a mouth-watering dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you decide to stick with the classic recipe or experiment with variations like lemon or chocolate glaze, these donuts are sure to impress your friends and family.
Additionally, with proper storage, you can enjoy these donuts for a couple of days, although they are best when freshly made. Furthermore, if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the vegan option for a plant-based twist on this delightful dessert. The recipe is versatile, allowing for creativity while maintaining the irresistible combination of flavors.
Finally, by following these detailed steps and tips, you can master the art of making coconut cream filled donuts. Now it’s your turn to roll up your sleeves, head to the kitchen, and create your own batch of delicious donuts. Happy baking!