These Lemon Curd Donuts are an irresistible combination of fluffy, golden donuts filled with zesty lemon curd, then dusted with powdered sugar. They offer the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making them an ideal treat for any occasion—from breakfast to dessert. Here’s an in-depth guide to making these amazing donuts, along with tips, variations, and more!
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Soft and Fluffy Donuts – These donuts are light, fluffy, and perfectly golden on the outside.
✔️ Tangy Lemon Curd Filling – The fresh lemon curd adds a delightful zesty kick.
✔️ No Deep Frying – These donuts can be baked or fried based on your preference.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s brunch, afternoon tea, or a holiday treat, these donuts will impress.
-Ingredients
For the Donuts:
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
1 cup (240ml) fresh lemon juice
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp lemon zest
For Coating:
1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Donut Dough
1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
-Step 2: Make the Lemon Curd Filling
1. In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch over medium heat.
2. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. Stir in the butter and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Cool the curd to room temperature and refrigerate until ready to use.
-Step 3: Shape & Fry the Donuts
1. Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ½-inch thick on a floured surface.
2. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter) to cut out donut shapes. Use a smaller cutter to remove the center to make donut holes.
3. Place the donuts on a greased baking sheet and let them rise again for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
-Step 4: Fill the Donuts
1. Once the donuts are cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a long, thin tip to fill them with the lemon curd.
2. Pipe the curd carefully into the center of each donut until filled.
-Step 5: Dust & Serve
1. Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar before serving.
2. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
-Tips for the Best Lemon Curd Donuts
✔️ Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh lemon juice and zest will give you the brightest flavor.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Lemon Curd – Stir constantly and remove from heat once it thickens.
✔️ Chill the Lemon Curd – Ensure the curd is chilled before filling the donuts for the best texture.
✔️ Fry at the Right Temperature – Keep the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to avoid oily donuts.
✔️ Don’t Overfill the Donuts – Fill only enough to give them a nice, balanced lemony bite without spilling.
-Variations & Substitutions
Orange Curd Donuts – Substitute lemon curd with fresh orange juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
Berry-Lemon Donuts – Add some fresh berries like blueberries to the filling for a sweet contrast.
Honey-Glazed Donuts – Coat the donuts in a honey glaze instead of powdered sugar for a different sweetness.
-How to Store & Reheat
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
❄️ Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for about 10 seconds or reheat in a low oven to restore softness.
-FAQs About Lemon Curd Donuts
1. Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and lemon curd ahead of time and assemble and fry the donuts on the day you plan to serve them.
2. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the donuts on a lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes or until golden.
3. What other fillings can I use?
Besides lemon curd, try chocolate ganache, vanilla pastry cream, or even strawberry jam for a fruity twist!
-Final Thoughts
These Lemon Curd Donuts are the perfect balance of fluffy, citrusy, and sweet. Whether enjoyed with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or served at your next brunch, they are sure to delight everyone.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a refreshing take on the classic donut with a lemony twist!