Soft, fragrant, and irresistibly rich, these Nutella-filled donuts are a morning treat that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make. Infused with fresh orange juice, a hint of cinnamon, and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, they strike the perfect balance between bright citrus and creamy decadence. Whether served at brunch, tucked into a lunchbox, or set out at a celebration, they disappear fast—so consider doubling the batch.
A Citrus Twist on a Classic Treat
The base of this recipe takes a familiar form—baked cake-style donuts—but leans on orange juice and zest to bring a fresh dimension. Unlike deep-fried versions, these are baked in a donut pan, which keeps things light and approachable. And instead of being glazed or frosted, they’re finished with a generous spoonful of Nutella in the center. That combination of warm spices, tangy citrus, and creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread is surprisingly sophisticated, yet deeply comforting.
Let’s Talk Ingredients
Each element in this recipe plays a purposeful role in the final texture and flavor. Here’s how it all comes together:
- Flour (110g) – Use standard all-purpose (or 00 flour if you have it) for a tender crumb. The fine texture helps create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Eggs (2) – These provide structure and richness. Beating them with sugar until light and airy ensures the donuts stay soft and sponge-like.
- Orange Juice (30ml) + Zest of One Orange – Fresh orange juice adds a bright note and subtle tang, while the zest brings essential oils for even deeper citrus aroma.
- Neutral Oil (60ml) – Choose a mild oil like sunflower or canola; it adds moisture without overpowering the flavor.
- Sugar (100g) – Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with the light texture when beaten with the eggs.
- Baking Powder (½ tsp) – Gives the batter lift so the donuts bake up fluffy instead of dense.
- Cinnamon (to taste) – Adds gentle warmth and complexity. You can adjust to your taste or skip it entirely if you prefer.
- Nutella (to taste) – The star of the show. It’s used as a rich, creamy filling after baking.
- Powdered Sugar (as needed) – A finishing touch for presentation and a little extra sweetness.
Ingredient Swaps:
For a dairy-free version, this recipe is naturally lactose-free. You can also swap in a different nut butter or dairy-free chocolate spread if you’re avoiding hazelnuts. Lemon zest can substitute orange for a more tart, punchy flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with the eggs and sugar.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This step is crucial—it incorporates air, which helps create that soft texture.
2. Add the wet ingredients.
Pour in the orange juice and oil. Whisk gently to combine, then stir in the orange zest and cinnamon. The batter will smell fresh and slightly spicy at this point.
3. Fold in the dry ingredients.
Sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free, but don’t overwork it—stop once it’s combined and silky.
4. Prep your donut pan.
Lightly grease a donut pan with oil or butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking. Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
5. Bake.
Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F), static mode if available, and bake for about 20 minutes. They should rise gently and turn a light golden color. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
6. Cool and fill.
Let the donuts cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Using a piping bag or small spoon, add a generous amount of Nutella into the center of each donut.
7. Finish with powdered sugar.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving. It adds a bit of elegance and a delicate sweetness that complements the filling.
Tips for Serving
These donuts are best enjoyed slightly warm, when the Nutella is soft and the citrus notes are most vibrant. Serve them with coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a satisfying treat that works morning to night.
Storage & Leftover Ideas
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days, though they’re best eaten fresh. Reheat briefly in the microwave (about 10 seconds) to soften the texture and revive the Nutella center.
You can also slice leftover donuts and use them as a base for a dessert parfait—layer them with whipped cream, fruit, or more Nutella for an easy no-bake dessert.
Extra Soft Baked Donuts with Nutella Filling
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 110 g all-purpose flour
- 2 pcs eggs
- 30 ml orange juice Freshly squeezed
- 60 ml neutral oil Canola or sunflower oil
- 1 pcs orange zest Grated zest of one orange
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 0.5 tsp baking powder
- to taste cinnamon Add to your preference
- to taste Nutella For filling
- as needed powdered sugar For dusting
Instructions
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.
- Add the orange juice, oil, orange zest, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, then mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Do not overwork the mixture.
- Lightly grease and flour a donut pan, then spoon the batter into each cavity, filling it about three-quarters full.
- Bake the donuts in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool slightly before removing them from the pan.
- Once cooled, pipe or spoon Nutella into the center of each donut.
- Dust the donuts with powdered sugar just before serving for a finishing touch.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, ensure the Nutella is dairy-free, or substitute with a different nut butter.
- These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days at room temperature.
Leave a Reply