Name: Bomboloni alla Crema Recipe: Irresistibly Creamy Doughnuts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 4 cups All-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture); 1 packet Active dry or instant yeast (proof in warm water with sugar if using active dry); 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (adjust for less sweetness if desired); 1 cup Whole milk (dairy-free option: almond milk); 2 large Eggs (ensure at room temperature); 1/4 cup Unsalted butter (can substitute with margarine if needed); 2 cups Pastry cream (can be made in advance and refrigerated); 1 cup Powdered sugar (for dusting before serving)

The aroma of freshly fried pastries wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to a quaint Italian café, where Bomboloni alla Crema reign supreme. These delightful cream-filled doughnuts boast a soft, pillowy texture and a luxurious creamy center that makes every bite a celebration. Best of all, this Bomboloni alla Crema recipe offers the thrill of indulgence made effortlessly at home—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings or impressing guests at brunch. Plus, you can whip them up the night before, allowing the dough to rise while you sleep! Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a decadent dessert, these little gems promise to bring a touch of Italian magic to your table. Curious about how simple it is to create these heavenly bites? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Love Bomboloni alla Crema?

Indulgent, creamy delight: Each bite of these Italian doughnuts reveals a rich, velvety filling that’s absolutely irresistible.

Quick prep time: Enjoy a delightful homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe allows for easy preparation.

Fluffy texture: The dough’s soft, pillowy nature creates a perfect contrast to the creamy center, making every bite a heavenly experience.

Easily customizable: While this recipe shines with the classic filling, you can experiment with flavors like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves to suit your taste.

Crowd-pleasing treat: These beauties are perfect for brunch gatherings or festive occasions! Pair them with coffee or tea for an extra special touch.

Try them alongside Zucchini Sweet Skillet for a delightful meal that impresses with every bite!

Bomboloni alla Crema Ingredients

For the Dough
All-purpose flour – Forms the dough structure; consider using bread flour for a chewier texture.
Active dry or instant yeast – Leavens the dough for lightness; proof in warm water with sugar if using active dry.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and nourishes the yeast; adjust for less sweetness if desired.
Whole milk – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with almond milk for a lovely dairy-free option.
Eggs – Provides richness and aids in leavening; ensure they are at room temperature for even mixing.
Unsalted butter – Adds flavor and tenderness; can substitute with margarine if needed.
For the Filling
Pastry cream – The luxurious filling that provides a rich, velvety texture; can be made in advance and refrigerated.
For Dusting
Powdered sugar – For dusting, adding sweetness and making these Bomboloni alla Crema visually appealing.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bomboloni alla Crema Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry or instant yeast, and a pinch of salt. Gradually pour in warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C), followed by beaten eggs and melted unsalted butter. Mix until combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic, then shape it into a ball.

Step 2: First rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffy and holds an indentation from your finger.

Step 3: Shape and second rise
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release air. Turn it onto a floured surface and divide it into equal portions, shaping each piece into a ball. Place the dough balls on parchment paper, spaced apart. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for 30 to 60 minutes until they’re noticeably puffed up.

Step 4: Fry the doughnuts
In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few dough balls at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd. Fry for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried Bomboloni to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Fill with cream
Once the Bomboloni have cooled slightly but are still warm, prepare your pastry cream. Use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to fill each doughnut. Insert the tip into the doughnut’s side and gently squeeze until you feel some resistance, ensuring each doughnut is generously filled with that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Dust and serve
Finally, roll each filled Bomboloni in powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Make sure they are well-coated to enhance their sweetness and visual appeal. Serve these delightful Bomboloni alla Crema fresh, inviting everyone to indulge in their soft, airy texture and rich filling.

How to Store and Freeze Bomboloni alla Crema

Room Temperature: Store Bomboloni in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Fridge: Refrigerate Bomboloni alla Crema for up to 3 days if you need to keep them longer. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the doughnuts for up to 2 months. Wrap each in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for best freshness.

Reheating: To restore their delightful texture, reheat chilled or frozen Bomboloni in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy these creamy treats at their best!

Make Ahead Options

These Bomboloni alla Crema are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy indulgence at a moment’s notice! You can prepare the pastry cream up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dough can also be made the night before; after the first rise, refrigerate it instead of letting it rise again. When you’re ready to fry, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and frying. This way, you’ll ensure the Bomboloni are just as delicious and fluffy as fresh. Dust them with powdered sugar just before serving for that perfect finish!

Bomboloni alla Crema Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with this delightful doughnut recipe! Each twist adds a personal touch that your taste buds will surely love.

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and use dairy-free margarine for a completely plant-based treat.
Chocolate Bliss: Replace the pastry cream filling with rich chocolate ganache for a decadent experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
Fruit-Filled: Use delightful fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot instead of pastry cream for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for an aromatic hint of citrus that brightens the entire doughnut.
Nutty Crunch: Mix chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios, into the pastry cream filling for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Sweetness: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Glazed Delight: Instead of dusting with powdered sugar, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the warm doughnuts for a shiny finish.
Savory Option: Experiment with savory fillings like a cream cheese blend or ricotta mixed with herbs for a unique appetizer that surprises and delights.

Why not serve your Bomboloni alongside Air Fryer Chicken for a sweet and savory pairing that your family will cherish?

What to Serve with Bomboloni alla Crema?

Imagine a delightful spread that perfectly complements those plump, creamy doughnuts and creates an unforgettable dining experience.

Espresso or Cappuccino: The rich coffee flavors cut through the sweetness of the Bomboloni, enhancing every bite with a balancing bitterness.
Rich Chocolate Sauce: A velvety chocolate sauce drizzled on top adds an indulgent twist and pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a fresh, tart counterpoint that elevates the sweetness of the doughnuts.
Cinnamon Sugar Dust: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar gives your Bomboloni an extra layer of warmth and spice, complementing their creamy interior.
Vanilla Panna Cotta: This silky, creamy dessert echoes the flavors of the filling, offering a sophisticated end to your meal.
Gelato Affogato: Pour hot espresso over a scoop of creamy gelato for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor after enjoying Bomboloni.
Homemade Lemon Curd: The bright citrus notes from lemon curd refresh the palate and add a zesty twist to the doughnuts’ rich creaminess.
Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits helps lighten the overall meal, adding texture and freshness alongside the sweet treats.
Sweet Chardonnay or Moscato: These wines provide a fruity, bubbly accompaniment, enhancing the doughnuts’ sweetness while cooling them down.

Expert Tips for Bomboloni alla Crema Recipe

Perfect Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C); this ensures the doughnuts are crispy outside and fluffy inside without absorbing excess oil.
Dough Rising Time: Don’t rush the rising process! Letting the dough rise fully is key to achieving that light, airy texture in your Bomboloni alla Crema.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing; this helps the dough come together smoothly and rise more effectively.
Piping Technique: When filling the doughnuts, insert the piping bag tip gently into the side and fill slowly to avoid bursting, ensuring each Bomboloni alla Crema is decadent and delicious.
Storage Smartly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 3 days—reheat slightly to restore their texture.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with different fillings! Try chocolate or fruit preserves, giving your Bomboloni a personal twist that everyone will love.

Bomboloni alla Crema Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for Bomboloni alla Crema?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, opt for all-purpose flour or bread flour for a chewier consistency. Use fresh active dry or instant yeast for best results—if using active dry yeast, remember to proof it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar to activate it fully. Your eggs should ideally be at room temperature to help with the mixing process, contributing to a smooth dough.

How should I store Bomboloni alla Crema?
For optimal freshness, store your Bomboloni in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days but ensure they’re covered to prevent drying out. I often place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture!

Can I freeze Bomboloni alla Crema?
Yes, absolutely! To freeze your Bomboloni, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes—this restores their delightful texture.

What are some common issues when making Bomboloni alla Crema?
A common issue is undercooked doughnuts. Ensure your oil is at the correct frying temperature of 350°F (175°C); I always recommend using a thermometer for accuracy! Also, allowing the dough to rise fully is vital—if it hasn’t doubled in size, the texture won’t be as airy. Thick pastry filling or bursting doughnuts can happen if you’re not gentle while piping; insert the bag tip slowly and fill with care.

Are Bomboloni alla Crema suitable for dietary restrictions?
While traditional Bomboloni contain dairy and gluten, you can certainly make them more inclusive! For a dairy-free option, switch whole milk for almond or oat milk. Plus, ensure your pastry cream is made with dairy-free alternatives if needed. Just keep in mind; they may not have that classic richness but will still be delicious!

Can I customize the filling for my Bomboloni alla Crema?
The more the merrier! You can fill these delightful doughnuts with a variety of options like chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or fruit preserves. Just ensure your chosen filling complements the dough’s soft texture, making every bite a pleasing experience!