Desserts

Cream-filled Bomboloni

Name: Cream-filled Bomboloni
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup pastry cream; Vegetable oil for frying; Extra sugar for rolling

Chef Olivia

November 30, 2025
3 min read

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

Cream-filled Bomboloni are delightful Italian doughnuts that bring joy to any occasion. They are soft, fluffy, and filled with silky pastry cream, making them perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Making these treats at home allows you to customize the filling and enjoy them fresh, offering a taste that is hard to beat. Plus, they are fun to make and a hit with family and friends!

how to make Cream-filled Bomboloni

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup pastry cream
Vegetable oil for frying
Extra sugar for rolling

Directions:

In a small bowl, warm the milk and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter.
Let the circles rise for another 30 minutes.
Heat the oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on both sides.
Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly.
Fill each doughnut with pastry cream using a piping bag.
Roll in sugar before serving.

how to serve Cream-filled Bomboloni

Serve these delicious Bomboloni warm for the best taste experience. They are exquisite on their own but can be garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar or chocolate sauce for an extra treat. Pair them with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.

how to store Cream-filled Bomboloni

Store any leftover Bomboloni in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them for up to two days. If you wish to maintain their softness, consider storing them in the refrigerator, although this might alter the texture slightly.

tips to make Cream-filled Bomboloni

Make sure the milk is warm but not hot when dissolving the yeast. This helps the yeast activate correctly.
Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, ensuring soft and stretchy Bomboloni.
Fill the doughnuts with the pastry cream just before serving to maintain their freshness.

variation

You can experiment with different fillings, like chocolate cream, fruit jams, or lemon curd, to give a different flavor twist to your Bomboloni.

FAQs

1. Can I make Bomboloni without yeast?
Yes, you can, but the texture will be different. Yeast gives Bomboloni their airy and fluffy quality.

2. What can I use instead of pastry cream?
You can use whipped cream, custard, or even chocolate ganache for filling variations.

3. Can I freeze Cream-filled Bomboloni?
It’s best to freeze them unfilled. After frying, let them cool and then place in a freezer bag. Fill them with cream after thawing for the best texture.