If you have a sweet tooth and a love for indulgent treats, then this Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts Recipe will quickly become your new obsession. These doughnuts boast a cloud-soft, golden-fried exterior with a luscious swirl of velvety chocolate hazelnut cream that’s both rich and satisfyingly light. Each bite is a heavenly blend of warmth, crunch, and creamy filling, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack that feels like a special occasion. Let me walk you through how simple ingredients come together to create this irresistible delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these doughnuts lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients that each have an important role. From the active yeast that helps the dough rise to that luscious chocolate hazelnut spread that fills each bite, every component adds delicious depth, texture, and flavor.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The secret agent that makes your dough light and airy by creating those perfect bubbles inside.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F): Provides the ideal environment to activate the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds everything together while giving the dough its tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- 2 large egg yolks: Contribute to richness, color, and a tender texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds moistness and that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Vegetable oil for frying: The golden bath that crisps your doughnuts perfectly while keeping them light.
- 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread: The star filling that brings irresistible nutty, chocolaty bliss to every bite.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped with the spread to create a fluffy, dreamy cream for the filling.
- Optional toppings – powdered sugar, melted chocolate, chopped toasted hazelnuts: Add extra flair, crunch, and sweetness to make your doughnuts look and taste extraordinary.
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the active dry yeast and granulated sugar into the warm milk. Let it hang out for about 5 to 10 minutes until it gets foamy on top. This foamy sign means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on your dough!
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the rich egg yolks and softened butter. Stir everything until it forms a soft dough. Then, knead it with your hands for 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic — like a stress ball of happiness.
Step 3: First Rise
Place your dough ball in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and tuck it somewhere warm. It will double in size in about an hour, turning your dough from humble to heavenly!
Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about half an inch thick. Use a 2 1/2 to 3-inch cutter to stamp out perfect rounds. Lay these doughnut circles on a floured surface, cover, and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and ready for frying.
Step 5: Fry the Doughnuts
Heat your vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Carefully lower the doughnuts in batches and fry them for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they’re golden brown perfection. Drain them briefly on paper towels and let them cool just a bit before filling.
Step 6: Make the Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Filling
Whip together the chocolate hazelnut spread and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and luscious. This is the filling that will turn ordinary doughnuts into something unforgettable.
Step 7: Fill the Doughnuts
Make a small hole on the side of each doughnut with a knife. Fill a piping bag fitted with a small round tip with your whipped chocolate hazelnut cream, and pipe the filling into each doughnut until you feel a gentle resistance. This filling makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Dust your doughnuts with powdered sugar, drizzle melted chocolate on top, or sprinkle with chopped toasted hazelnuts to add visual wow factor and extra texture. Each topping gives a slightly different spin on this classic treat.
How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Opt for a simple dusting of powdered sugar for classic elegance or drizzle melted chocolate over your doughnuts to accentuate that delicious hazelnut flavor. A sprinkle of chopped toasted hazelnuts adds crunch and nutty complexity, turning your doughnuts into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
These doughnuts pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a steamy latte, balancing their sweet richness with some comforting warmth. Alternatively, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a refreshing contrast that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange your doughnuts on a tiered cake stand for a casual brunch or dessert buffet. Or try slicing them in half and layering with extra chocolate hazelnut cream and fresh fruit slices for a decadent doughnut sandwich. The possibilities are endless and sure to impress your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This will maintain the filling’s creamy texture without drying out the doughnuts.
Freezing
Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen doughnuts will keep for up to one month. While they might lose a little of that freshly fried texture, the flavor and cream filling stay impressive.
Reheating
When you’re ready for a treat, reheat chilled or frozen doughnuts gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in an oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This revives their softness and ensures the chocolate hazelnut cream filling is perfectly luscious once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut spread instead of chocolate hazelnut?
Absolutely! Almond butter or even peanut butter blended with a bit of cocoa powder can produce delicious variations. Just make sure the spread you choose is smooth and sweet enough to mimic the original luscious filling.
Is it necessary to fry the doughnuts, or can I bake them?
While frying gives that signature golden crust and light texture, you can bake them for a healthier option. Bake at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden. The texture will be slightly different but still delightful, especially with the creamy filling.
How do I prevent the doughnuts from absorbing too much oil?
The key is to maintain your oil temperature steadily at 350°F. If the oil is too cool, doughnuts become oily and heavy. Using a thermometer helps keep the temperature spot on every time for perfectly crispy yet light doughnuts.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chocolate hazelnut cream filling several hours or even a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Whip it again briefly before filling your doughnuts to restore its light and fluffy texture.
What’s the best way to pipe the filling without making a mess?
Use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip for precision, and create a small hole on the doughnut’s side just big enough for the tip. Squeeze gently to fill without overstuffing, and wipe your tip clean often to keep edges neat and tidy.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts Recipe a try because it’s more than just a recipe—it’s a little celebration in every bite. The combination of fluffy dough, rich chocolate hazelnut goodness, and that perfect golden fry is so satisfying, you’ll find yourself reaching for more. Whether for a weekend treat or impressing friends and family, these doughnuts deliver pure joy. So roll up your sleeves, and dive into making this irresistible dream come true!
Print
Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Doughnuts, featuring a fluffy, golden fried dough filled with a luscious chocolate hazelnut cream. Topped optionally with powdered sugar, melted chocolate drizzle, and toasted hazelnuts, these European-inspired doughnuts combine the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnut in every bite. Perfect for a special breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
For the Doughnuts:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Filling:
- 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Topping (Optional):
- Powdered sugar
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
- Chopped toasted hazelnuts
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg yolks, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape the Doughnuts: Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut rounds using a 2 1/2–3 inch cutter. Place on a floured surface, cover with a towel, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil for frying doughnuts without touching the bottom.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Fry the doughnuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: Whip the chocolate hazelnut spread with heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
- Fill the Doughnuts: Make a small hole in the side of each cooled doughnut with a knife, then pipe the chocolate hazelnut cream filling inside.
- Add Toppings: Dust the filled doughnuts with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Sprinkle with chopped toasted hazelnuts if desired.
Notes
- For easier piping, create a small hole with a knife before inserting the filling tip.
- These doughnuts are best enjoyed the same day but can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Ensure the frying oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F for even cooking.
- Handle the doughnuts gently to avoid tearing the soft dough when filling.
