Bomboloni alla Crema

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Bomboloni alla Crema, a classic Italian dessert that is sure to impress your taste buds. These creamy-filled donuts are easy to make and perfect for a special treat or gathering. As a seasoned chef, I can assure you that this recipe will become a favorite in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and creamy pastry cream filling that oozes with flavor.
- Quick and simple preparation, perfect for a weekend baking project.
- Versatile and suitable for any occasion, from brunches to dessert tables.
Ingredient Notes:
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Instant yeast
- Salt
- Whole milk
- Eggs
- Unsalted butter
- Lemon zest (optional)
For the Pastry Cream:
- Whole milk
- Granulated sugar
- Egg yolks
- Cornstarch
- Vanilla extract
- Unsalted butter
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil
- Powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and lemon zest. Knead until smooth.
- Let the dough rise, then roll it out and cut circles.
- Fill with pastry cream, fold, and let rise again.
- Fry until golden brown, then dust with powdered sugar.
Helpful Tips:
- Use a thermometer to ensure the milk is at the right temperature for the dough.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal results.
- Customize the filling with different flavors like chocolate or fruit.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a piping bag to fill the bomboloni for a clean and uniform look.
- Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy Bomboloni alla Crema with a cup of espresso for a classic Italian pairing.

Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store leftover bomboloni in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
- Yes, but you may need to activate it in warm water first.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before frying.
- Can I freeze the bomboloni?
- Yes, freeze them after frying, then reheat in the oven before serving.
- Can I substitute the pastry cream with a different filling?
- Yes, get creative with your favorite fillings like Nutella or custard.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the delightful flavors of Bomboloni alla Crema. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that will elevate any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try it out and share your feedback with us!
PrintBomboloni alla Crema
Bomboloni alla Crema is a delightful Italian dessert consisting of fluffy doughnuts filled with creamy pastry cream. These indulgent treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 bomboloni 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Pastry Cream:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix in warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and lemon zest. Knead until smooth. Let rise.
- Make the Pastry Cream: Heat milk and sugar. Whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, and vanilla. Gradually mix hot milk into egg mixture. Return to heat until thickened. Stir in butter.
- Fill and Fry: Roll out dough, cut circles, place cream, seal, and let rise. Fry in oil until golden. Dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
- You can customize the flavor of the pastry cream by adding different extracts or zest.
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying to achieve perfectly cooked bomboloni.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomboloni
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Italian dessert, pastry cream, fried doughnuts, sweet treat, indulgent dessert