Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats

Name: Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 treats
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

I can’t resist the allure of these Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats! Combining the flaky layers of a croissant with the sweet decadence of a doughnut, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds. Each bite is a crispy, buttery explosion of flavor that tantalizes your taste buds. I love how they’re surprisingly easy to make at home, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while baking is simply heavenly. Trust me, these treats are worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T20:29:27.525Z

When I first attempted these Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats, I was amazed at how perfectly the textures meshed. The first bite was all it took to be hooked. I learned that letting the dough rest is crucial as it allows the layers to develop, creating that signature flaky finish.

Experimenting with toppings also became a delightful journey! Whether I chose a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar, each combination enhanced the flavors without overpowering the buttery goodness. For an added twist, I sometimes fill them with a rich pastry cream!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flaky layers reminiscent of traditional croissants
Luscious sweetness from the doughnut glaze
A delightful fusion perfect for brunch or dessert

Understanding the Dough Structure

The dough for Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats is designed to achieve a perfect meld of flakiness and richness. The combination of all-purpose flour and butter creates a gluten structure that allows for layers while retaining a tender crumb. When mixing, ensure the dough is neither too wet nor too dry; a well-hydrated dough will lead to a more expansive rise during frying. If you find your dough too sticky, a light dusting of flour can help achieve the desired consistency without compromising the layers.

Temperature plays a crucial role in dough development. It’s essential to use warm milk, at around 110°F, to activate the active dry yeast effectively. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, leading to a flat overflow of forgiveness in your treats. After mixing the ingredients, knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic - this usually takes about 5 minutes. Kneading not only develops gluten but also ensures the dough achieves the right texture for frying.

Perfecting Your Frying Technique

Frying is where the magic truly happens in this recipe. Use a deep fryer or a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to maintain consistent heat. Ideally, the oil should be heated to around 350°F, which is optimal for frying. If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it—if it bubbles vigorously and rises to the surface, you're good to go. Frying the dough until it’s golden brown, roughly 3-4 minutes per side, will ensure a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender and fluffy.

Avoid overcrowding the pan; giving each dough round enough space allows for even cooking and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too quickly. If you find that one side browns faster, carefully flip them halfway through cooking to achieve a uniform golden finish. Once fried, let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, which will help maintain the desired texture and flavor integrity of your treats.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape and Fry

Roll out the dough to 1/2 inch thickness and cut into circles. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan. Fry the dough rounds until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the warm treats in the glaze and set on a cooling rack to let the glaze set.

Pro Tips

Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free area for optimal results. Don’t skip the resting time
it is essential for achieving that lovely flakiness.

Glazing Options

The glaze plays an important role in adding an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal to your Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats. You can customize your glaze by adjusting the consistency to your liking. If you want a thicker glaze that coats the doughnut generously, use less milk; for a thinner, more translucent finish, add a little more. This flexibility allows you to tailor your treats to your preference.

In addition to the classic vanilla glaze, consider infusing flavors into your treatments, such as citrus zest, cocoa powder, or even spices like cinnamon for added depth. Experimenting with flavors can lead to exciting variations, such as a chocolate ganache or a maple glaze, which would pair beautifully with the doughnut's sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

For those who want to enjoy these treats throughout the week, they can be made ahead and stored appropriately. Once the Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you intend to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Freeze the fried treats in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, which helps to preserve their texture and flavor. They can last up to a month in the freezer.

To reheat frozen treats, simply place them in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. While reheating, this method helps retain the outer crispness, breathing new life into your Croissant Doughnut Hybrid Treats, making them taste freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying.

→ What oil should I use for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for the best frying results.

→ Can these treats be baked instead of fried?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, but the texture will be different from traditional fried doughnuts.

→ What variations can I try?

Feel free to experiment with fillings such as chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or flavored cream cheese to customize each treat!