As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of baking pastries reminded me of cozy mornings at my grandmother’s house, where every treat felt like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a beloved classic: Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts with Vanilla Bean Custard. This innovative recipe marries the flaky, buttery goodness of a croissant with the soft, sweet appeal of a donut, making it the ultimate breakfast indulgence. Not only are these donuts a delightful way to start your day—they’re also surprisingly easy to elevate with the tanginess of sourdough and the lusciousness of homemade vanilla custard. Best enjoyed fresh, these treats will leave your kitchen filled with happy chatter and satisfied smiles. Curious to discover how to create this masterpiece at home? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why Are These Donuts So Special?
Uniqueness: These Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts are a delicious blend of two pastry worlds, offering a unique experience that’s hard to resist.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can impress friends and family without needing expert skills.
Flavor Explosion: The tartness of fresh raspberries combined with creamy vanilla custard makes every bite a flavorful delight.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or a special celebration, these donuts are sure to wow any crowd.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch the raspberry for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries, or even try a chocolate version! Want to elevate your breakfast game further? Check out Indulge Raspberry Chocolate for another sweet treat!
Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts Ingredients
For the Donut Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the donuts; substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Active Sourdough Starter – Offers natural leavening and enhances flavor; make sure it’s fed and bubbly for the best rise.
- Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; any non-dairy milk can be used for a lactose-free option.
- Fresh or Frozen Raspberries – Provides fruity flavor and vibrant color; using fresh berries is preferred for better texture.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together and contributes to overall richness; unsweetened applesauce works as a vegan alternative.
- Softened Butter – Enhances flavor and creates a tender crumb; use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; no substitutions needed.
- Sugar – Sweetens the donuts; you can opt for coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Freeze-Dried Raspberry Powder – Optional, adds intensified raspberry flavor and color; crushed freeze-dried strawberries can substitute.
- Granulated Sugar (for coating) – Adds sweetness and texture; no substitutions needed.
For the Vanilla Bean Custard
- Whole Milk – Provides creaminess and smoothness; sugars will bring out the sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the custard; ensure it’s mixed well without lumps for a smooth texture.
- Egg Yolks – Enrich the custard and contribute to creaminess; use extra yolks for added richness.
- Vanilla Extract or Seeds – Offers flavoring; using premium vanilla will give the best taste.
For the Filling
- Raspberry Jam – Provides a delightful burst of fruit flavor; feel free to replace with any fruit jam of choice.
For Frying
- Frying Oil – Use coconut oil or beef tallow for frying; make sure your oil can handle high heat effectively.
These delightful Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts are a perfect way to combine flavors and textures, creating a memorable pastry treat for any occasion. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts
Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Purée
Start by blending about a cup of fresh or thawed raspberries in a food processor until smooth. Pass the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to strain out the seeds, reserving the vibrant juices. This purée will bring a delightful fruitiness to your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts, enhancing both flavor and color.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 cup of active sourdough starter. Add in the raspberry purée, 2 large eggs, sugar, salt, and optional freeze-dried raspberry powder. Mix on low until the dough is smooth, which should take about 5 minutes, then increase the speed for another 2 minutes until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Butter and Knead
Gradually add ½ cup of softened butter to your dough mixture while it continues kneading. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is elastic and slightly tacky. You’ll know it’s ready when it easily pulls away from the bowl’s sides. The butter will make your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts delightfully rich and tender.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm environment and let it rise for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size. To enhance the rise, perform stretch folds every 30 minutes; this encourages the development of gluten and structure.
Step 5: Cold Proof
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for 8-12 hours. This cold proof phase helps to deepen the flavor of the dough and makes it easier to handle when rolling out.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick. Wrap the rectangle tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in the freezer for 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial for achieving the desired flaky layers in your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts.
Step 7: Cut and Shape
After freezing, slice the dough into rectangles, then cut each rectangle diagonally into triangles. Starting from the wider end, roll each triangle tightly into a crescent shape, ensuring the point is tucked underneath to secure it. This shaping technique will give your donuts their delightful croissant-like appearance.
Step 8: Final Rise
Place the rolled donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Cover them loosely with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise in a warm spot for 2-5 hours, or until they are noticeably puffy. This second rise is essential for a light and airy texture in your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts.
Step 9: Fry
Heat frying oil, ideally coconut oil, in a deep pot or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry the donuts in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 10: Coat in Sugar
Once cool enough to handle but still warm, roll each donut in granulated sugar to coat fully. This sweet touch enhances the overall flavor of your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts and adds a delightful crunch.
Step 11: Fill with Custard and Jam
Using a piping bag fitted with a fill tip, carefully inject each donut with homemade vanilla bean custard and a burst of raspberry jam. This step creates a delicious surprise with each bite, blending the creamy custard with tangy fruit in your finished donuts.
Step 12: Serve Immediately
For the best experience, serve the filled Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts immediately while they’re still warm. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat that will surely impress family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts are perfect for those busy mornings when you need a delicious, homemade treat with minimal effort! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it into a rectangle, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it overnight. This allows the flavors to deepen while maintaining quality. Once you’re ready to finish, simply remove the chilled dough, roll it out, cut, and shape the donuts before their final rise (about 2-5 hours). For an even easier option, you can also fill the donuts with custard and raspberry jam up to 3 days before serving, just be sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container. This way, you’ll have freshly filled Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts ready to impress your family without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts
Room Temperature: Store your donuts at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 1 day. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place filled donuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to restore softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Once ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Reheating: To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste, warm the donuts in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This makes the Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts delightful again!
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with fun twists and flavorful substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and butter with any non-dairy milk and coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version.
- Berry Mix: Swap fresh raspberries for a mix of strawberries and blueberries to create a delightful berry medley in each bite. The sweetness will balance beautifully with the tartness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist, and use chocolate custard instead of vanilla for a decadent treat. Chocolate-filled donuts are always a favorite!
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, like pistachios or almonds, into the donut dough for a delightful crunch. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that’s sure to impress.
- Spiced Custard: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your vanilla bean custard for a warm, cozy flavor profile perfect for chilly mornings. The aromatic spices will fill your kitchen with warmth!
- Vibrant Glaze: Drizzle a lemon or orange glaze over the cooled donuts for a burst of citrusy flavor that brightens their sweetness. It’s a playful and refreshing counterpoint to the richness!
- Zesty Raspberry Jam: Use lemon curd mixed with raspberry jam as your filling for a zesty, tangy surprise in the middle of each donut—it’s wonderfully refreshing.
- Smoothie Inspired: Blend your favorite fruit smoothie mixture (like mango or blueberry) into the raspberry purée for a unique flavor boost in your donuts. This ensures a fruity punch with every bite!
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, try making the Sourdough Pesto Grilled cheese sandwich for a unique lunch or indulge in some Raspberry Brownies Fudgy for dessert! You’ll be inspired to whip up something wonderful in the kitchen!
What to Serve with Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts
These donuts not only shine on their own but can also be elevated with the right accompaniments to create a perfect breakfast spread.
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Fresh Fruit Medley: A colorful mix of berries, citrus, and melon provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the raspberry flavor.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and honey, the creaminess complements the sweet, tangy donuts, creating a delightful breakfast harmony.
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Honeyed Ricotta: A dollop of ricotta drizzled with honey adds richness and a creamy texture, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Savory Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of crispy bacon balances the sweet donuts perfectly, providing that cherished sweet-and-salty experience.
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Refreshing Mint Tea: A fragrant cup of mint tea offers a soothing beverage option that clears the palate, enhancing every bite of the donuts.
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Classic Coffee: Brewed to perfection, a cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts, inviting cozy morning conversations.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve these donuts warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
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Chilled Sparkling Lemonade: The bright and zesty notes of sparkling lemonade cleanse the palate after the rich donuts, making it a vibrant pairing.
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Chocolate Fondue: For an extravagant twist, set up a chocolate fondue station; dipping pieces of the donuts into warm chocolate is pure indulgence.
Expert Tips for Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts
- Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active to achieve the best rise; a neglected starter may yield dense donuts.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep frying oil at 375°F; too low will lead to oily donuts, while too high can burn them.
- Kneading Time: Don’t rush kneading—proper gluten development is crucial for the soft texture of your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts.
- Filling Technique: To avoid overfilling, gently squeeze your piping bag when filling; too much can cause the donuts to burst.
- Storing Safely: If not served immediately, refrigerate filled donuts but enjoy best within a day for optimal freshness and flavor.
Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely! Make sure your sourdough starter is active, bubbly, and well-fed. An underactive starter won’t yield the fluffiness you crave in your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and give your starter the nourishment it needs.
How should I store these donuts?
You can store your Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 1 day to maintain freshness. If you’d like to keep them longer, place the filled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the very best experience, warm them briefly in the microwave before enjoying!
Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can! For optimum flavor, freeze unfilled donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer them to the fridge overnight. Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before serving, and they’ll taste like freshly made!
What if my donuts don’t rise properly?
Very often, the culprit for dense donuts is an inactive sourdough starter. Ensure it’s bubbly and has been fed within the last 4-6 hours. Also, environmental temperature matters; if your kitchen is too cold, consider placing the dough in a warm spot. Remember to perform stretch folds during the first rise to promote gluten development!
Can I substitute ingredients if I have allergies?
Certainly! For egg-restricted diets, you can replace each large egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, swap whole milk with any non-dairy milk for lactose intolerance. Be sure to check the labels of other ingredients like jam and custard for allergens to suit your dietary needs!
How do I make my donuts even fruitier?
If you love a stronger raspberry flavor, you can add a tablespoon or two of freeze-dried raspberry powder into your dough or simply increase the amount of fresh raspberries used, if desired. Feel free to experiment with different berries or even a mixed berry filling for a delightful twist on the recipe.
Raspberry Croissant Sourdough Donuts for a Sweet Morning Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Raspberry Purée by blending raspberries and straining.
- Make the Dough in a stand mixer with flour, milk, sourdough starter, and purée.
- Add softened butter gradually and knead until elastic.
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled.
- Cold Proof the dough in the refrigerator overnight.
- Roll Out Dough to ½ inch thick, freeze for 1 hour.
- Cut and Shape the dough into triangles, rolling into crescents.
- Final Rise on baking sheet until puffy.
- Fry in heated oil until golden brown and flaky.
- Coat in granulated sugar once cooled.
- Fill with custard and raspberry jam using a piping bag.
- Serve Immediately while warm.
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