Ingredients

Chocolate-Filled Donuts:

• Chocolate: 120g | 4.3 oz | 1/2 cup
• Olive Oil: 30 ml | 1/8 cup
• Butter: 30g | 1 oz | 2 tbsp
• Cottage Cheese: 250g | 8.8 oz | 1 cup
• Sugar: 70g | 2.4 oz | 1/3 cup
• Eggs: 2 pcs
• Salt: 1/4 tsp
• Cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Flour: 240g | 8.4 oz | 2 cups
• Baking Powder: 1 tsp
• Vegetable Oil: 400 ml | 2 cups (for frying)
• Icing Sugar: 1 tsp (for dusting)

Chocolate Candies:

• Condensed Milk: 240g | 8.4 oz | 1 cup
• Cocoa Powder: 100g | 3.5 oz | 3/4 cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chocolate-Filled Donuts:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Filling:
   • Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Set aside.
2. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, and salt. Mix until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
   • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is creamy.
   • Mix in the cinnamon, followed by the melted butter and olive oil, stirring until well incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough:
   • In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the donuts tough.
4. Shape and Fill the Donuts:
   • Divide the dough into small portions, flatten each portion, and add a small amount of melted chocolate in the center. Carefully fold and seal the dough around the chocolate to form a ball, ensuring no filling leaks.
5. Fry the Donuts:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat until it reaches approximately 175°C (350°F).
   • Fry the donuts in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, until golden brown on all sides (about 2–3 minutes per side).
   • Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
6. Dust with Icing Sugar:
   • Once slightly cooled, dust the donuts with icing sugar.

Chocolate Candies:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder with condensed milk. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Shape the Candies:
   • Scoop the mixture into small portions and shape into small balls. Optionally, you can roll the candies in cocoa powder or icing sugar for a more finished look.
3. Set the Candies:
   • Place the candies on a plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 1 hour or until firm

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving for both donuts and candies):

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 30g

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake these donuts at 180°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes. They may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.

Q2: What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
You can use ricotta or a mixture of Greek yogurt and cream cheese for a similar texture.

Q3: Can I use a different filling for the donuts?
Absolutely! Try using Nutella, fruit jam, or even a vanilla custard as filling alternatives.

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Donuts and Candies

1. Control Oil Temperature:
   Keep the oil temperature steady for perfectly fried donuts. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of dough. If it sizzles but doesn’t brown immediately, it’s ready.
2. Seal the Dough Well:
   To avoid the filling leaking out, ensure the dough is well-sealed around the chocolate before frying.
3. Alternative Candy Coatings:
   Roll the chocolate candies in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed cookies for a fun twist.
4. Flavor Variations for Candies:
   Add a few drops of peppermint or orange extract to the chocolate candy mixture for added flavor.

Storage Tips

• Donuts: Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
• Candies: Store the chocolate candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

These homemade chocolate-filled donuts paired with rich chocolate candies are the ultimate sweet indulgence. The donuts offer a warm, gooey center encased in a soft, cinnamon-scented dough, while the chocolate candies bring a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert rotation.