Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try
If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your day, then you must try Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! These fluffy Italian doughnuts are filled with silky pastry cream, making them an irresistible indulgence. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a family gathering, these sweet delights will surely bring smiles all around.
What makes this recipe special is not just the heavenly taste but also how simple it is to make. You’ll find that the ingredients are straightforward and the process is manageable, even for novice bakers. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll create delicious bomboloni that impress everyone.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet treats, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the pastry cream in advance and fill the bomboloni right before serving!
- Versatile Filling Options: Experiment with different flavors of cream or jams for a unique twist every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create Bomboloni alla Crema. Gather your supplies, and let’s get started on this delightful treat!
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Pastry Cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Variations
One of the best things about Bomboloni alla Crema is how flexible this recipe can be! Feel free to get creative with your fillings and toppings.
- Try Different Flavors: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist.
- Add Fruit Preserves: Fill some bomboloni with your favorite fruit preserves for a fruity alternative.
- Chocolate Cream Filling: Swap out the pastry cream for chocolate pastry cream for all the chocolate lovers out there.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of powdered sugar, dust your bomboloni with cinnamon sugar for an extra flavor kick.
How to Make Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by mixing together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Once combined, add in the warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and lemon zest if you’re using it. Knead until you have a smooth dough. This step is crucial as it helps activate the yeast and creates that light texture we love.
Step 2: Let It Rise
Cover your dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—this usually takes about an hour. Patience is key here; letting the dough rise properly ensures fluffy bomboloni!
Step 3: Make the Pastry Cream
While waiting for the dough to rise, prepare your pastry cream. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk and half of the sugar. In another bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and remaining sugar until smooth. Gradually pour hot milk into this mixture while whisking continuously. Return everything to the pan and cook until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract and butter until fully combined.
Step 4: Shape Your Bomboloni
Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass. Let those circles rest for about 30 minutes; this will help them puff up nicely while frying.
Step 5: Frying Time!
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Carefully drop in the dough circles a few at a time—don’t overcrowd! Fry until golden brown on both sides; this should take about 2-3 minutes each side. Removing them from oil promptly helps keep them from becoming greasy.
Step 6: Fill the Bomboloni
Once cooled enough to handle, fill a piping bag with your cooled pastry cream. Poke a hole in each doughnut’s side and squeeze to fill them generously with cream—watch them puff up even more!
Step 7: Serve
Dust your beautiful bomboloni with powdered sugar right before serving. These treats are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for later indulgence.
Now you have everything you need to create Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! Enjoy baking these delightful treats and sharing them with loved ones!
Pro Tips for Making Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try
Making bomboloni can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these helpful tips to elevate your doughnut game!
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Use warm milk: Warmed milk helps activate the yeast more effectively, resulting in a fluffier and lighter dough. Make sure it’s not too hot—just warm enough to touch!
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Knead well: Kneading the dough for about 10 minutes ensures that gluten develops properly, which is essential for giving your bomboloni their signature texture. A well-kneaded dough will rise beautifully.
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Let the dough rise: Don’t skip the rising time! Allowing the dough to rise until it doubles in size gives the bomboloni their airy and soft quality. Patience is key here!
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Maintain oil temperature: Keeping the oil at a steady temperature (around 350°F or 180°C) while frying is crucial for achieving that golden-brown exterior without overcooking. Use a thermometer for best results.
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Fill generously: When piping in the cream, don’t be shy! A generous amount of filling will make each bite a creamy delight. Just make sure not to overfill, as this can cause them to burst.
How to Serve Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try
Serving bomboloni alla crema can be as fun as making them! With a little creativity, you can make these treats look as good as they taste.
Garnishes
- Powdered sugar: A classic dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and visual appeal. It’s simple yet effective!
- Chocolate drizzles: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the top for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Side Dishes
- Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad complements the richness of the bomboloni beautifully. Choose seasonal fruits for vibrant flavors.
- Espresso or coffee: Serve with a shot of espresso or your favorite coffee. The bold flavors pair perfectly with the sweet creaminess of the bomboloni.
- Vegan whipped cream: For those who enjoy an extra layer of creaminess, serve with a dollop of vegan whipped cream on the side for dipping or spreading.
- Herbal tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can balance out the sweetness and provide a comforting beverage option.
Enjoy your bomboloni alla crema with these delightful serving suggestions, and prepare to impress family and friends with your baking prowess!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Bomboloni alla Crema recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats at your convenience. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the bomboloni to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For best results, consume them within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Freezing
- Once the bomboloni are filled and dusted with powdered sugar, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw the bomboloni overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- For a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
- Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving again.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Bomboloni alla Crema that might help you out!
Can I make Bomboloni alla Crema ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make these delicious bomboloni in advance and store them as instructed earlier. Just remember to fill them just before serving for the best experience.
What is the secret to fluffy Bomboloni alla Crema?
The key to fluffy bomboloni lies in allowing the dough to rise adequately and ensuring you fry them at the right temperature. This helps achieve that light texture everyone loves!
How do I know when my Bomboloni alla Crema are done frying?
Watch for a golden-brown color and a puffed-up appearance. They should float on the oil’s surface when ready. A cooking thermometer should read about 350°F (175°C) during frying.
Can I use different fillings for Bomboloni alla Crema?
Yes! While this recipe features a creamy pastry filling, feel free to experiment with alternatives like fruit preserves or custards that suit your taste.
How long do Bomboloni alla Crema stay fresh?
When stored properly, bomboloni will remain fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature, but they’re best enjoyed within 24 hours!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful Bomboloni alla Crema as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they are a testament to the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring on your own, these little doughnuts will surely bring warmth and happiness to any occasion. Happy baking!
Bomboloni alla Crema
Indulge in the delightful experience of Bomboloni alla Crema: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! These airy Italian doughnuts are filled with luxurious pastry cream, offering a sweet escape that’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy brunches to festive gatherings. With a straightforward process and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create this mouthwatering treat. The fluffy texture combined with versatile filling options makes these bomboloni a hit among both kids and adults. Get ready to impress your loved ones while savoring each delightful bite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups whole milk for pastry cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar for pastry cream
- 4 large egg yolks for pastry cream
- ¼ cup cornstarch for pastry cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for pastry cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for pastry cream
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and optional lemon zest. Knead until smooth.
- Cover the dough with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Prepare the pastry cream by heating whole milk with half the sugar. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks with cornstarch and remaining sugar. Combine gradually with hot milk and cook until thickened; stir in vanilla and butter.
- Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Allow them to rest for 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to medium heat (around 350°F). Fry dough circles until golden brown on both sides.
- Once cooled slightly, fill each doughnut with pastry cream using a piping bag.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bombolone (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg