Few treats evoke the feeling of pure indulgence like freshly made donuts. Their warm, fluffy texture and lightly crispy exterior make them a universal favorite across cultures and age groups. But when you take it one step further by filling these delightful confections with creamy Nutella, the result is an irresistible dessert that’s hard to beat.

Nutella-filled donuts combine the classic richness of fried dough with the chocolate-hazelnut flavor of a beloved spread. These homemade delights bring a café-style treat right to your kitchen. Whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or during a festive gathering, Nutella-filled donuts are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their versatility means you can enjoy them plain, dusted with sugar, or adorned with toppings for a more decadent presentation.

This recipe is not just about indulgence; it’s a way to create cherished memories with loved ones. The simple act of frying donuts, filling them with luscious Nutella, and sprinkling caster sugar can become a delightful ritual for family or friends. Let’s dive into the recipe, along with tips and tricks to make these donuts as perfect as possible.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 150 ml warm milk
• 35 grams sugar
• 5 grams instant yeast
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 325 grams bread flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 15 grams butter
• Cooking oil for frying
• Nutella (or chocolate jam or custard cream) for filling
• Caster sugar for dusting

Steps to Make Nutella-Filled Donuts

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (150 ml) and sugar (35 grams). Sprinkle the yeast (5 grams) on top and stir gently. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg lightly and add the yeast mixture, followed by the cooking oil (1 tablespoon).
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the bread flour (325 grams), salt (1/4 teaspoon), and baking powder (1/2 teaspoon). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Incorporate Butter: Add the butter (15 grams) and knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer. The dough should be smooth, soft, and slightly sticky.

2. First Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
2. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

3. Shape the Donuts

1. Punch down the risen dough to remove air.
2. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1 cm thickness.
3. Use a round cutter (about 7 cm in diameter) to cut out donut shapes. Gather and re-roll the scraps to make more donuts.
4. Place the cut-out donuts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes, or until puffed up.

4. Fry the Donuts

1. Heat the cooking oil in a deep pan or fryer to 175°C (350°F).
2. Fry the donuts in batches, about 2–3 at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Cook each side for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

5. Fill the Donuts

1. Once cooled slightly, use a piping bag fitted with a small nozzle to fill the donuts. Insert the nozzle into the side of the donut and fill with Nutella (or your chosen filling).
2. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the donuts to burst.

6. Finish with Caster Sugar

1. Roll each filled donut in caster sugar while still slightly warm for a sweet coating.
2. If desired, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a different finish.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes rising time)
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: Makes approximately 12 donuts
• Calories per Serving: ~250 kca

Why Nutella-Filled Donuts are Timeless

The appeal of Nutella-filled donuts lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, golden exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy interior. The Nutella filling adds an indulgent chocolatey richness that elevates these donuts to an extraordinary level.

Fried treats like donuts have been beloved for centuries in various forms across the globe, from beignets in France to loukoumades in Greece. Adding Nutella, a modern classic, to the mix makes this recipe a fusion of tradition and innovation. It’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, making it a timeless favorite.