Next, it’s time to prepare the dough that will form the delicious square donut shape. Donut dough is what gives these treats their fluffy texture and crispy outer layer once fried. Here’s how you can prepare the dough:
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 egg, 50g sugar, 360ml milk, and 40ml vegetable oil. This will create the wet mixture that binds all the dry ingredients together.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 380g flour, 30g powdered milk, 2 tablespoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk these ingredients together to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands. Once combined, knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes soft, sticky, and cohesive. The dough should be sticky but not too wet. If necessary, add a little more flour to reach the right consistency, but be careful not to add too much.
3. Shape and Fry the Donuts:
Once your dough is ready, it’s time to shape the square donuts. The square shape gives these donuts a unique, modern twist, while the familiar donut texture still shines through.
- Step 1: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and add more flour on top to prevent it from sticking. Roll the dough out to a thickness of 1 inch (2.5 cm). The dough should be thick enough to create a sturdy donut that can hold the pastry cream without falling apart.
- Step 2: Use a square cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into squares. Make sure the pieces are even so that they fry evenly.
- Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the square dough pieces into the hot oil. Fry the donuts for about 5-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.
- Step 4: Once fried, transfer the donuts to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before filling them with pastry cream.
4. Fill the Donuts with Pastry Cream:
Now that your donuts have cooled slightly, it’s time to fill them with the rich and creamy pastry cream.
- Step 1: Using a spoon or a piping bag, make an indentation in the center of each donut, making sure not to tear the sides.
- Step 2: Spoon or pipe the cooled pastry cream into the hole you created, filling each donut generously. The creamy center will be the highlight of these square donuts, giving each bite a luxurious texture and flavor.
5. Finish and Serve:
To add the perfect finishing touch, dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar before serving. The powdered sugar will provide a sweet contrast to the rich, creamy filling and the crispy fried dough, making each bite even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions:
These square donuts filled with pastry cream are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a tea party, or a special dessert night, these donuts will impress your guests. You can also serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of coffee for a delightful snack.
Pro Tip: If you want to get a little fancy, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.
Why You’ll Love These Donuts:
- Unique Shape: The square shape gives these donuts a modern twist on the traditional round donut, making them perfect for anyone who loves novelty treats.
- Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: The frying method ensures a crisp, golden exterior, while the soft dough inside creates a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
- Decadent Pastry Cream: The silky, homemade pastry cream filling is the star of this dessert. It’s rich, creamy, and comforting—everything you want in a dessert.
- Customizable: You can experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate mousse, whipped cream, or even fruit preserves. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts:
Making square donuts filled with pastry cream at home may seem like a daunting task, but with this detailed recipe, you can easily master it. The result is a beautifully fried donut with a rich and velvety cream center that will surely impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these square donuts will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, get ready to indulge in this delightful treat that’s sure to change your donut game forever!
