Directions
- Make the Pastry Cream:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and half of the sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add the egg yolks and mix until smooth.
- Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking continuously until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until completely cool.
- Prepare the Donuts:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it until it forms a smooth ball. Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a square cutter to cut out the donuts.
- Fry the Donuts:
- In a deep pot or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the square donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding.
- Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Fill the Donuts:
- Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a long nozzle to fill each donut with the chilled pastry cream. Insert the nozzle into the side of the donut and squeeze gently until you feel a slight resistance.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Optionally, dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar, dip them in a simple glaze, or drizzle them with melted chocolate. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of soft donut and creamy pastry filling!
Tips for Perfect Square Donuts
- Make Ahead: The pastry cream can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to fill the donuts.
- Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature to ensure even frying and prevent the donuts from becoming too greasy.
- Variations: Experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate pastry cream, fruit preserves, or whipped cream, to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Square donuts filled with pastry cream are a unique and delicious treat that can brighten up any occasion. With their fluffy texture and rich filling, they offer a delightful combination of flavors that’s sure to please everyone. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own, these donuts are a must-try for any dessert lover. So roll up your sleeves, get in the kitchen, and whip up a batch of these delectable square donuts today!
