Nutella-Stuffed Heart Donuts

Name: Nutella-Stuffed Heart Donuts
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 donuts
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup Nutella; Powdered sugar for dusting; Chocolate syrup for drizzling (optional); Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

I absolutely adore making these Nutella-Stuffed Heart Donuts for special occasions. The moment you bite into the fluffy donut, the rich, gooey Nutella oozes out, and it’s pure bliss. We love decorating them with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of chocolate. They not only taste incredible, but they also look so cute and festive! Whether for a birthday, Valentine's Day, or just because, these donuts are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-01-15T10:47:34.139Z

When I first tried making heart-shaped donuts, I didn’t expect them to be so delightful! I used a simple dough recipe that’s rich and fluffy, and the addition of Nutella takes them to another level. The key is ensuring the oil is at the perfect temperature; this prevents them from absorbing too much oil and keeps them light and airy.

One tip I'll share is to allow the donuts to cool slightly before filling them. This helps the Nutella maintain its heavenly texture. I always have a smile on my face when I see friends and family enjoy these delicious treats!

        Reasons You'll Love These Donuts
        Soft and fluffy texture that's irresistible
Warm Nutella filling that spreads joy with every bite
Perfect for romantic celebrations or festive gatherings

      

Mastering the Dough

The key to achieving that perfect fluffy texture in your Nutella-Stuffed Heart Donuts lies in how you handle the dough. When mixing your ingredients, make sure the milk is warmed to about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast effectively. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, resulting in a dense donut. The dough should be kneaded until it's smooth and elastic, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. A well-kneaded dough will rise better and create those light, airy donuts we crave.

After kneading, cover your dough with a damp cloth and place it in a warm area to rise. A good tip is to turn your oven to the lowest setting for a couple of minutes, then turn it off and place your dough inside. This method provides the perfect warm environment for the yeast to work its magic. Watch for the dough to double in size, which usually takes around one hour; this is your indicator that it's ready to be shaped.

Perfect Frying Technique

Frying can be intimidating, but getting it right is essential for a delicious donut. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent oil temperature fluctuations, and keep a thermometer handy to ensure the oil stays at 350°F (175°C). Frying in batches of 2-3 at a time helps maintain the oil temperature, which is crucial; if the temperature drops too low, you’ll end up with greasy donuts. Cook each donut for about 2-3 minutes on each side, turning them when they develop a golden brown color.

After frying, let the donuts rest on a paper towel-line plate to absorb excess oil. They should be slightly warm when you fill them with Nutella. This slight cooling allows the Nutella to flow into the donut more smoothly without melting completely. Make sure you don't skip the dusting of powdered sugar; it not only adds to the appearance but also balances the richness of the Nutella filling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Dough Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling and Toppings

1 cup Nutella
Powdered sugar for dusting
Chocolate syrup for drizzling (optional)

Frying

Vegetable oil for frying

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect donuts:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Mix in melted butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla, then gradually add flour until a dough forms.

Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

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

Shape the Donuts

Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out donuts and place them on a floured surface.

Heat the Oil

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry donuts in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Fill with Nutella

Allow donuts to cool slightly, then use a piping bag to fill each donut with Nutella. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired.

Enjoy your fresh, warm Nutella-Stuffed Heart Donuts!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough.

Ingredient Variations

While Nutella is the classic filling for these donuts, feel free to experiment with other fillings. For a fruity twist, try using a raspberry or strawberry jam. Just be cautious with the amount; these fillings can be quite runny and might require a thicker dough to prevent leakage. You could also consider using almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the donut well.

If you're looking for a healthier option, you might substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This change can slightly alter the texture, making it denser, so be mindful of this if you prefer that light, fluffy bite. Additionally, using a non-dairy milk can make this recipe suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan; just ensure that the non-dairy milk is warmed adequately before adding it to the yeast mixture.

Storage and Enjoyment

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain tasty for up to two days, but the texture may change as they absorb moisture. To revive them, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before eating. Freezing is another option; place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.

For a fun serving idea, consider creating a donut bar! Set up toppings like crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles alongside your donuts, allowing guests to customize their treats. Alternatively, pair these donuts with coffee or a glass of milk for an indulgent treat. You can also drizzle additional chocolate syrup over the top right before serving for a more decadent experience. Let your creativity shine!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different filling instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! You can use peanut butter, fruit jam, or your favorite chocolate spread.

→ How can I ensure my donuts are fluffy?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and give the dough plenty of time to rise before frying.

→ What kind of oil is best for frying donuts?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works well due to their high smoking points.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and let it come to room temperature before shaping.