Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts: A Sweet Treat to Try Today!

Name: Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts: A Sweet Treat to Try Today!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)

Isabella

Posted on January 16, 2026

Desserts

Introduction to Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something special in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely adore these Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts! They’re a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the creamy custard flavor of crème brûlée with the soft, fluffy texture of donuts. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat to impress your loved ones, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

These Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts are not just a treat; they’re a lifesaver for busy days! They come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack. The rich, creamy flavor will transport you to a French café, while the soft, fluffy texture will have your family begging for more. Plus, they’re baked, so you can indulge without the guilt!

Ingredients for Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your donuts, giving them that soft, fluffy texture we all love.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It enhances the flavor and helps create that lovely caramelized topping.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise, making them light and airy.
Baking soda: Another leavening agent that works with the baking powder for that perfect lift.
Salt: Just a pinch! It balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang, making the donuts rich and creamy.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and flavor. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Large egg: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add structure to the donuts.
Vanilla extract: A must for that classic crème brûlée flavor! You can also use vanilla bean paste for an extra kick.
Granulated sugar (for topping): This is what you’ll sprinkle on top before caramelizing for that signature crunchy crust.
Brown sugar (for topping): Adds a deeper flavor and helps create a beautiful caramel color.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these scrumptious Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your donuts bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grease your donut pan with a little cooking spray or melted butter. This will help your donuts pop out easily once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well mixed. This step is crucial because it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, ensuring your donuts rise beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. The buttermilk adds a lovely richness, while the vanilla brings that classic crème brûlée flavor. Make sure everything is well combined for the best results!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and we want them light and fluffy!

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. If you overfill, you’ll end up with a messy pan and misshapen donuts!

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 7: Cool and Caramelize

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, mix the granulated sugar and brown sugar together. Sprinkle this mixture generously on top of the donuts. Then, using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and crispy. This step adds that signature crème brûlée crunch!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
Practice caution when using the kitchen torch to caramelize sugar.

Equipment Needed

Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Mixing bowls: Use at least two for wet and dry ingredients. Any size will do!
Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients. A fork can work too!
Kitchen torch: For caramelizing the sugar. If you don’t have one, broil the donuts in the oven for a few minutes instead.

Variations of Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Chocolate Crème Brûlée Donuts: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy topping.
Maple Pecan Donuts: Substitute maple syrup for some of the sugar and add chopped pecans to the batter for a nutty twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these donuts suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use almond milk instead of buttermilk. Coconut oil can replace the butter for a dairy-free treat.
Fruit-Infused Donuts: Fold in fresh berries or banana puree into the batter for a fruity flavor that brightens up the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Pair with a steaming cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, for a refreshing contrast.
Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving.
Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent experience.
Present on a beautiful platter to impress your guests at brunch!

FAQs about Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Can I make these Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before filling the donut pan. However, for the best texture, I recommend baking them fresh.

How do I store leftover donuts?

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping?

Yes! While granulated and brown sugar create that classic crème brûlée topping, you can experiment with coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the caramelization process may vary.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No worries! If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the donuts under the broiler in your oven for a few minutes. Just watch them closely to prevent burning!

Can I customize the flavors of these donuts?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even spices like cinnamon. The base recipe is versatile, so let your creativity shine!

Final Thoughts

Making Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts is more than just a cooking adventure; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your kitchen. The moment you take that first bite, the creamy custard flavor dances on your palate, and the crispy caramel topping adds a satisfying crunch. These donuts are perfect for sharing with family or friends, creating sweet memories together. Plus, they’re quick and easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for busy days. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of these donuts brighten your day!