Lemon Crème Brûlée Donut Rolls

A Decadent Twist on a Classic Treat

Lemon Crème Brûlée Donut Rolls combine the best of two indulgent desserts silky crème brûlée and pillowy donuts. These rolls are filled with a luscious lemon custard, then topped with caramelized sugar for that signature brûlée crunch. With a golden, crispy exterior and a creamy, citrusy center, they’re perfect for a special breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

I first made these on a whim, craving both donuts and crème brûlée. The moment I cracked through the caramelized top into the soft, custard-filled roll, I knew this was a keeper. It’s an elegant treat that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredient Notes

Dough

A classic yeast dough ensures a soft and fluffy texture. You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade dough adds a richer flavor.

Lemon Custard

The filling is a creamy, tangy lemon custard made with egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Cornstarch helps thicken it to the perfect consistency.

Sugar Topping

Granulated sugar is caramelized with a kitchen torch to create the signature brûlée crust. For extra depth, use a mix of white and brown sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Make a soft yeast dough, knead until smooth, and let it rise until doubled in size.

2. Make the Lemon Custard

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Slowly add warm cream and cook until thickened. Strain for a silky texture, then chill.

3. Shape and Fry the Rolls

Roll out the dough and cut into rounds. Let them rise again before frying in hot oil until golden brown.

4. Fill with Custard

Once cooled, poke a hole in each roll and pipe in the lemon custard using a pastry bag.

5. Caramelize the Sugar

Sprinkle granulated sugar on top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize until crisp and golden.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

1. Perfecting the Dough

Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly, and knead until smooth for a light, airy texture.

2. Achieving a Smooth Custard

Strain the custard after cooking to remove any lumps for a velvety consistency.

3. Even Caramelization

Hold the torch at a slight angle and move in circles for even browning without burning.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee: The creamy, citrusy filling pairs beautifully with a strong espresso or cappuccino.
• As a Dessert Plate: Serve with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Brunch Favorite: A standout addition to any brunch spread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

Freeze unfilled rolls for up to a month. Reheat and fill before serving.

Reheating

Warm in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to refresh the texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the caramelized top.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes! Bake at 350°F for 15-18 minutes until golden, then fill and caramelize.

2. What if I don’t have a torch?

You can use the broiler—watch closely to avoid burning.

3. Can I use store-bought custard?

Absolutely! If short on time, lemon curd mixed with pastry cream works well.

4. How do I get the sugar to stick?

Lightly brush the tops with a bit of water or melted butter before sprinkling the sugar.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Crème Brûlée Donut Rolls are the perfect fusion of rich custard, caramelized sugar, and soft dough. Whether for a weekend treat or a show-stopping dessert, they’re sure to impress. Try them out and let me know how you like them in the comments!

Print