Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic banana pudding flavors with the beloved donut in this mouthwatering recipe. Each bite offers a creamy banana pudding filling nestled within a fluffy donut, creating a heavenly treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Steps:
- Prepare Banana Pudding Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Set aside. In a saucepan, heat 1 1/2 cups of milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually whisk the sugar mixture into the simmering milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Fold the banana mixture into the pudding until well combined. Let cool.
- Prepare Donut Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in chopped walnuts if using.
- Fry the Donuts:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the donuts from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Assemble the Donuts:
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip to inject each donut with the cooled banana pudding filling.
Variation:
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the donut batter and top with chocolate ganache before filling with banana pudding.
- Experiment with different toppings such as crushed cookies, toasted coconut, or caramel drizzle for added flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to ensure the donuts cook evenly and maintain their shape.
- Use ripe bananas for maximum flavor in the pudding filling.
- Don’t overfill the donuts with pudding to prevent them from bursting open.
- Serve the donuts warm for the best taste and texture.
These Banana Pudding Donuts offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a standout dessert for any gathering or special occasion. Enjoy the creamy banana pudding filling encased in a fluffy donut for a treat that’s sure to please everyone’s taste buds!
