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easy custard doughnut

Cheats Custard Doughnut

This genius easy custard doughnut recipe turns frozen dinner rolls and pantry staples into golden, sugar-dusted wonders in under 90 minutes. With clever shortcuts, you'll enjoy the perfect combination of fluffy dough and velvety filling without the traditional effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Proofing Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 doughnuts
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 frozen dinner rolls Bridgford or Rhodes brands work best
  • 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
Custard Components
  • 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix 3.4 oz
  • 1 3/4 cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla bean paste
  • 2 tbsp salted butter

Equipment

  • Deep heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Candy thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Piping bag with Bismarck tip (#230)
  • Small Saucepan
  • Paper towel-lined baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Proof the dough rolls according to package directions (4–5 hours at room temperature). For faster results, place in oven with bowl of boiling water for 90 minutes.
  2. Combine pudding mix, milk, vanilla paste, and butter in saucepan. Whisk constantly over medium heat until thickened (3–4 minutes). Chill 1 hour.
  3. Heat oil to 350–375°F in heavy pot. Gently lower proofed rolls into oil using slotted spoon. Fry 90 seconds per side until golden brown. Remove to paper towels.
  4. Roll warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar.
  5. Transfer chilled custard to piping bag. Insert tip into each doughnut and fill with about 2 tbsp custard, until it begins to emerge. Serve immediately.

Notes

Try adding orange zest or a splash of bourbon to the custard for a flavor twist. For gluten-free, use GF frozen dough and cornstarch-based pudding.