Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy brioche doughnut that gives way to a luscious burst of jam and silky custard, creating an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. The scent of freshly fried dough mingles with sweet fruitiness and creamy richness, making it impossible to resist these Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts.
These delightful treats are perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or as a show-stopping dessert at family gatherings, sparking joy and laughter with every bite. I still remember the first time I tried them at a charming little bakery; the experience was like a delicious hug that wrapped me in warmth and happiness—an unforgettable moment that makes me crave these doughnuts time and again.
Why Is Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts So Irresistibly Good?
Delightfully fluffy and tender, these brioche doughnuts are a sweet escape from the ordinary. Endless filling options let you customize each bite with your favorite jam or custard, ensuring everyone’s taste buds are satisfied. Quick to make, you’ll have these treats ready in under an hour—perfect for any occasion! Crowd-pleasers at parties or brunch, they’re sure to earn rave reviews. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that make these doughnuts unforgettable!
Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts Ingredients
For the Doughnut Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of your doughnuts, providing structure and texture.
- 1 packet active dry yeast – Essential for leavening; it helps your dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 cup sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough, balancing flavors and enhancing browning during frying.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity for better dough consistency.
- 1/2 cup milk (warm) – Activates the yeast while adding moisture and richness to the dough.
- 2 large eggs – Provide richness and help bind the ingredients together for a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted) – Adds a delicious buttery flavor and creates a soft texture in your doughnuts.
For the Filling
- 1 cup jam (of your choice) – Choose your favorite flavor for a delightful burst of sweetness inside each doughnut.
- 1 cup custard (prepared) – Adds a creamy, luscious filling that complements the sweetness of the jam perfectly.
For the Coating
- 1/2 cup sugar (for dusting) – Dust these warm doughnuts for an irresistible sweet finish that enhances their appeal.
How to Make Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts
1. Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well mixed.
2. Mix wet ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of warm milk, 2 large eggs, and 1/4 cup of melted butter to the dry mixture. Stir until a dough forms, bringing everyone together into a lovely ball.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic — your hands will feel the transformation!
4. Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough in a warm spot, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Patience is key here!
For Shaping and Frying:
5. Roll out the dough: After rising, roll out the dough gently on a floured surface to about half an inch thick. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass for perfect shapes.
6. Heat oil: In a deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). This is the magic temperature for frying that golden goodness!
7. Fry the doughnuts: Carefully place the circles into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. They should puff up beautifully while cooking!
8. Drain and cool: Once fried, drain your delicious creations on paper towels to remove excess oil and allow them to cool slightly before filling.
For Filling and Coating:
9. Fill with goodness: Using a pastry bag or a small spoon, fill each doughnut with your choice of jam (1 cup) and freshly prepared custard (1 cup). Watch them burst with flavor!
10. Dust with sugar: Finally, roll each filled doughnut in sugar (1/2 cup) before serving—this sweet touch makes all the difference!
Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for an added touch of warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts
- Flour Quality: Use high-quality all-purpose flour; it provides the right structure and texture for soft, fluffy doughnuts.
- Yeast Activation: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly; too hot can kill the yeast, leading to flat doughnuts.
- Kneading Technique: Knead until smooth for about 10 minutes; under-kneading can result in dense doughnuts that won’t rise properly.
- Rising Environment: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot; a cold environment can slow down the fermentation process significantly.
- Frying Temperature: Maintain oil at 350°F (175°C); frying at too low of a temperature can lead to greasy doughnuts, while too high may burn them.
- Filling Strategy: Use a pastry bag for filling; this ensures even distribution of jam and custard in each doughnut without making a mess.
How to Store and Freeze Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts

- Room Temperature: Enjoy your Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts fresh for up to 1 day at room temperature, preferably in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.
- Fridge: Store any leftover doughnuts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the doughnuts for up to 2 months. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.
- Reheating: To enjoy your doughnuts warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts Your Way
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and make it your own!
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. This swap not only gives a wholesome twist but also enhances the texture.
- Vegan: Replace the milk with almond or oat milk, the butter with coconut oil, and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. These changes will keep your doughnut soft while being entirely plant-based.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these treats accessible for gluten-sensitive friends. Just ensure your yeast is gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing zing. This little boost of flavor can elevate the sweetness and add brightness in every bite.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top your finished doughnuts with a rich chocolate ganache instead of just sugar dusting. The combination of chocolate with jam and custard creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into your dough for warm spice notes. These spices complement the sweetness beautifully, giving it an unexpected yet delightful depth.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the dough for added texture and flavor. The crunch will contrast wonderfully against the smooth filling, making each bite exciting.
- Caramel Filling: Instead of jam, try filling them with salted caramel sauce for a decadent alternative. The sweet-salty balance will create an irresistible treat that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
If you’re looking to save time while still indulging in the delightful experience of Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts, this recipe is your perfect candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the dough in advance by mixing together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, followed by adding 1/2 cup of warm milk, 2 large eggs, and 1/4 cup of melted butter. After kneading for about 10 minutes and allowing it to rise for an hour, you can shape the dough into circles up to 24 hours ahead. The filling can be made with your favorite jam and prepared custard as well. Simply store these components separately in the fridge and fry them when you’re ready to serve. Frying should take only about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown; just dust with sugar right before enjoying these sweet treats!
Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts Questions Answered
What type of flour is best for this doughnut recipe?
All-purpose flour works beautifully for these Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts, providing just the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you want an even richer texture, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour, which will enhance the dough’s chewiness.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
After letting the dough rise for about 1 hour in a warm place, it should have doubled in size. A good visual cue is to gently poke the dough; if the indentation stays, it’s ready to go! This indicates that the yeast has activated properly and your dough will yield light and fluffy doughnuts.
Can I use store-bought jam and custard?
Absolutely! Using store-bought jam and custard can save you time while still delivering delicious results. Just make sure to choose high-quality products that you enjoy since they will greatly impact the flavor of your doughnuts, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.
How should I store leftover doughnuts?
To keep your filled brioche doughnuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration may change their texture slightly; they might become a bit denser.
Can I freeze these doughnuts?
Yes! These delightful treats can be frozen before or after frying. To freeze unfilled doughnuts, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and fill with jam and custard before dusting with sugar.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising as expected, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh by checking its expiration date or conducting a simple test—mix it with warm milk (around 110°F/43°C) and sugar; it should foam within 5-10 minutes. If not, it’s time for new yeast! Additionally, ensure your mixing bowl is warm but not too hot during the rising phase.

Jam and Custard Filled Brioche Doughnuts
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk, eggs, and melted butter; mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly.
- Using a pastry bag, fill each doughnut with jam and custard.
- Dust with sugar before serving.




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