If you have a craving for something wonderfully indulgent that feels like a hug in dessert form, you’re going to love this Cream-Filled Donuts with Nutella and Whipped Vanilla Cream Recipe. Each bite offers a tender, golden donut encasing a luscious, fluffy whipped cream filling with a delightful hint of vanilla, perfectly complemented by the rich, velvety Nutella. It’s a classic treat with an irresistible twist, sure to delight both your eyes and your taste buds. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or a cozy weekend treat, these donuts are a total showstopper that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully to create texture, flavor, and that perfect golden finish. Each item is essential — from the warm milk that nourishes the yeast for a perfect rise, to the heavy cream that whips into a heavenly filling.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure for fluffy yet tender donuts.
- Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise to airy perfection in just a couple of hours.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough ever so slightly and feeds the yeast for good rise.
- Salt: Balances flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- Whole milk, warm: Activates the yeast and creates a soft, tender crumb.
- Egg: Binds the dough and adds a lovely golden color when fried.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfectly crisp, golden donuts.
- Heavy cream, cold: The star ingredient for whipping into fluffy vanilla cream filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and dusts the donuts beautifully on top.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the whipped cream with a warm, inviting flavor.
- Nutella or chocolate cream spread: A delicious optional addition for a chocolatey twist inside or on top.
How to Make Cream-Filled Donuts with Nutella and Whipped Vanilla Cream Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by combining your all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients, setting the stage for a perfectly risen dough.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, warm whole milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently until a smooth dough begins to form. This melding of warm and rich ingredients brings life to the dough.
Step 3: Knead and Rise the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it feels soft and elastic — this step develops the gluten for that perfect chew. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. Watching the dough grow is half the fun!
Step 4: Shape the Donuts
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness, then use a round cutter to stamp out perfect circles. This shaping step makes each donut look inviting and ready for their fried transformation.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat your oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil and set aside to cool. This crispy exterior with a soft interior is the magic you’re after.
Step 6: Whip the Vanilla Cream Filling
Chill your heavy cream thoroughly and whip it together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. If you want to lavish your donuts in extra indulgence, gently fold in Nutella or chocolate cream to the whipped cream for a dreamy, chocolate-hazelnut filling.
Step 7: Fill the Donuts
Fill a piping bag with the whipped cream mixture, fitting it with a long nozzle. Poke a hole in the side of each cooled donut and pipe in a generous amount of cream. The moment you see the creamy filling gently bursting out, you’ll know the magic is complete.
Step 8: Add Finishing Touches
Dust the filled donuts lightly with powdered sugar for that classic look and sweetness. Add a delicate swirl of Nutella or chocolate cream on top to make these donuts absolutely irresistible – this extra touch makes the presentation pop and adds another layer of flavor.
How to Serve Cream-Filled Donuts with Nutella and Whipped Vanilla Cream Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle colorful edible flowers, crushed toasted hazelnuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce alongside the powdered sugar dusting. Each garnish adds not only beauty but a hint of complementary flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
These donuts pair wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee or a frothy latte to balance the sweetness. For brunch, serve alongside fresh berries or sliced fruits like strawberries and bananas to add a fresh, bright contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack them high in a decorative glass dome or arrange them in a pretty box lined with parchment paper for gifting. You can even create a donut board with assorted dips of caramel, melted chocolate, and fresh whipped cream for dipping, turning your homemade treat into an interactive delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover filled donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They will stay soft and creamy for up to 2 days, though they’re best enjoyed the same day for that perfect fluffy bite.
Freezing
You can freeze unfilled donuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw completely, then fill with fresh cream. This method keeps your donuts tasting just like fresh-baked.
Reheating
Gentle reheating can be done in a warm oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for a few minutes if you prefer a slightly warm donut. Avoid microwaving filled donuts as it can cause the whipped cream to melt and lose texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes! Just be sure to activate the regular yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar before mixing with the dry ingredients. This step isn’t needed for instant yeast, which saves time.
Is it possible to bake the donuts instead of frying?
Absolutely. Baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes can make lighter donuts, though they won’t have the classic crispy exterior frying gives. You can still fill and enjoy them the same way!
Can I substitute Nutella with another spread?
Definitely. Feel free to use any chocolate spread, peanut butter, or even fruit preserves to switch up the flavors in this Cream-Filled Donuts with Nutella and Whipped Vanilla Cream Recipe.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and a non-dairy butter substitute for the dough. For the cream filling, whip chilled coconut cream with powdered sugar and vanilla for a luscious dairy-free alternative.
What is the best way to prevent donut sogginess after filling?
Make sure your donuts are completely cooled before filling, and pipe the whipped cream filling just before serving. If stored filled, the donuts might soften quicker, so consume promptly for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about making and sharing this Cream-Filled Donuts with Nutella and Whipped Vanilla Cream Recipe. From the satisfying process of crafting the perfect dough to the heavenly reward of biting into creamy, chocolate-kissed goodness, it’s a recipe that brings smiles to any table. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at these delightful treats — your kitchen and your loved ones will thank you!
Print
Cream-Filled Donuts with Nutella and Whipped Vanilla Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus 1-2 hours rising time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These cream-filled donuts are a delightful homemade treat featuring a soft, fluffy fried dough filled with luscious whipped cream, and optionally enhanced with chocolate or Nutella. Perfectly golden and dusted with powdered sugar, they offer a perfect balance of lightness and rich sweetness.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warm
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying (enough to fill a deep pan about 2 inches)
Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Nutella or chocolate cream spread (optional)
Topping
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Nutella or chocolate cream (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning agents.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, warm milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
- Knead and proof dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until soft, smooth, and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape donuts: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness and use a round cutter to cut out circles for the donuts.
- Fry the donuts: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown and puffed. Drain on paper towels and allow to cool completely before filling.
- Prepare cream filling: Using a mixer, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. For chocolate variation, gently fold in Nutella or chocolate cream spread.
- Fill the donuts: Fit a piping bag with a long nozzle and fill each donut by injecting the whipped cream mixture inside.
- Finish and serve: Dust the filled donuts with powdered sugar. Optionally, garnish with a swirl of Nutella or chocolate cream on top for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature is consistent at 350°F to achieve perfectly fried donuts without oil absorption.
- Cold heavy cream whips better, so chill it along with the mixing bowl before whipping.
- Dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour as needed during kneading.
- Donuts should be cooled completely before filling to prevent melting the cream filling.
- Use a piping bag with a long nozzle to efficiently fill the donuts without damaging their shape.
