Cream-Filled Portuguese Doughnuts

c
@cocinero44

These delectable Portuguese doughnuts, known as 'sonhos,' are fluffy, deep-fried pastries filled with a rich, creamy pastry cream. Perfect for an indulgent treat, they encompass the traditional flavors of Portugal in each bite.

Cream-Filled Portuguese Doughnuts recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
50min

Ingredients

8 Servings
(1 serving = 1 doughnut)

For the sonhos

  • grs of 0000 flour
    grs of 0000 flour
    500
  • of fresh yeast
    of fresh yeast
    50g
  • of margarine
    of margarine
    100g
  • of sugar
    of sugar
    100g
  • eggs
    eggs
    2
  • of salt
    of salt
    1pinch
  • vanilla essence
    vanilla essence
    1tsp
  • warm water
    warm water

For the custard

  • of milk
    of milk
    1/2L
  • of wheat flour
    of wheat flour
    35g
  • of cornstarch
    of cornstarch
    35g
  • of sugar
    of sugar
    250g
  • yolks
    yolks
    4
  • vanilla essence
    vanilla essence
    1tsp

How to make Cream-Filled Portuguese Doughnuts

Prepare the Dough

  1. Step 1

    In a bowl, dissolve yeast in a little warm water. Mix in 50 g flour to form a bubbly paste. Let rest 15 mins until frothy.

  2. Step 2

    In a large bowl, combine remaining flour, margarine, sugar, eggs, salt, vanilla, and yeast mixture.

  3. Step 3

    Gradually add warm water until a soft dough forms.

  4. Step 4

    Knead 5 mins, then let rise in a warm place 1–2 hours or until doubled.

Make the Custard

  1. Step 1

    Whisk all custard ingredients in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick. Cool completely.

Shape & Fry

  1. Step 1

    Divide dough into 30 g pieces, roll into balls, and place on a floured tray.

  2. Step 2

    Let rise 30 mins until puffy.

  3. Step 3

    Fry the sonhos in not very hot oil so that they cook well inside. Drain on paper towels.

Fill & Serve

  1. Step 1

    Pipe custard into each doughnut. Dust with powdered sugar.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

262.2kcal (13.11%)

Protein

5.3g (10.52%)

Carbs

32.4g (11.79%)

Sugars

29.5g (59.08%)

Healthy Fat

8.6g

Unhealthy Fat

3.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a lighter version, consider baking instead of frying, although the texture will differ slightly.

  2. For smoother custard, strain through a sieve after cooking.

FAQS

  1. Can I bake the doughnuts instead of frying?

    Yes, you can bake them for a lighter version, but the texture will differ slightly.

  2. How should I store leftover doughnuts?

    Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  3. Can I add flavor to the pastry cream?

    Yes, try adding a hint of citrus zest like lemon or orange for an added zing.

  4. How do I prevent oily sonhos?

    Maintain oil at 170-175°C (340-350°F) (use a thermometer)

    Don't overcrowd the pan

    Drain upside-down on a rack (not just paper towels)

  5. How do I prevent the pastry cream from forming a skin?

    Cover the pastry cream with plastic wrap directly on the surface while cooling.

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