Hazelnut Cream Donuts

Indulging in a perfectly crafted donut is a delight, but when it’s filled with rich, velvety hazelnut cream, it becomes a luxurious treat that tantalizes the senses. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hazelnut cream donuts — from their irresistible features to how you can make them at home, along with expert tips, creative ideas, and answers to common questions.

What Are Hazelnut Cream Donuts?

Hazelnut cream donuts are soft, fluffy pastries filled with a luscious hazelnut-flavored cream, often topped with powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, or crushed nuts. These donuts combine the satisfying texture of fried or baked dough with the nutty, sweet, and slightly earthy flavor of hazelnuts, often enhanced by chocolate or vanilla undertones.

They are a popular treat in gourmet bakeries and coffee shops around the world, especially in regions where hazelnuts are a staple ingredient, such as Italy, Turkey, and France.

Features and Benefits of Hazelnut Cream Donuts

Hazelnut cream donuts are more than just a sweet snack. Here are some of their standout features:

Irresistible Flavor Profile

- Rich hazelnut taste with creamy texture

- Often blended with chocolate or vanilla for added depth

- Balanced sweetness that’s not overpowering

Versatile Presentation

- Can be filled, glazed, or topped in various ways

- Suitable for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day treat

- Pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or milk

Nutritional Highlights

While donuts are indulgent, hazelnuts themselves are packed with nutrients:

- High in healthy fats (monounsaturated)

- Rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants

- Provide a source of plant-based protein

Customizable for Dietary Needs

- Can be made gluten-free or vegan with substitutions

- Baked versions offer a lower-fat alternative

- Sugar alternatives can be used for diabetic-friendly recipes

Homemade Hazelnut Cream Donuts Recipe

Craving these delicious donuts at home? Here’s a detailed recipe to make about 12 hazelnut cream donuts from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast

- ¼ cup granulated sugar

- ½ tsp salt

- ¾ cup warm milk

- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)

- 2 large eggs

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Hazelnut Cream Filling:

- 1 cup heavy cream

- ½ cup Nutella or hazelnut spread

- 2 tbsp powdered sugar

- ½ tsp vanilla extract

For Frying:

- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Optional Toppings:

- Powdered sugar

- Melted chocolate

- Crushed roasted hazelnuts

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Add eggs, butter, and vanilla. Mix well.

3. Gradually incorporate flour and salt. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes).

4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Fry the Donuts

1. Roll out dough to ½ inch thickness and cut into circles using a donut cutter or glass.

2. Let the cut dough rise for another 30 minutes.

3. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.

4. Drain on paper towels and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Hazelnut Cream

1. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

2. Fold in hazelnut spread, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

3. Transfer to a piping bag with a round tip.

Step 4: Fill and Decorate

1. Use a knife to make a small hole in each donut.

2. Pipe in hazelnut cream until filled.

3. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle crushed hazelnuts.

Expert Tips for Perfect Hazelnut Cream Donuts

-Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is active for a good rise.

- Don’t over-knead: This can make the dough tough.

- Control oil temperature: Too hot and the donuts burn outside; too cold and they absorb oil.

- Cool before filling: Warm donuts can melt the filling and make them soggy.

- Use high-quality hazelnut spread: For the best flavor, choose a premium brand or make your own.

Creative Ideas to Make and Present Hazelnut Cream Donuts

1. Stuffed Hazelnut Cream Donuts with Chocolate Glaze

- Fill classic yeast-raised donuts with a rich, smooth hazelnut cream.

- Dip the top in a glossy dark chocolate glaze.

- Garnish with crushed hazelnuts for texture and presentation.

2. Hazelnut Cream-Filled Mini Donut Bites

- Make bite-sized donuts and inject them with hazelnut cream.

- Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.

- Serve in a paper cone or mini dessert cups for events or parties.

3. Hazelnut Cream Donuts with Caramel Drizzle

- After filling the donuts with hazelnut cream, drizzle with salted caramel sauce.

- Add a sprinkle of sea salt or roasted hazelnut crumbs.

- Serve warm for a gooey, decadent treat.

4. Baked Hazelnut Cream Donuts with Nutella Swirl

- Use a baked donut recipe for a healthier option.

- Swirl hazelnut cream (or Nutella) into the batter before baking.

- Top with a light glaze and a hazelnut praline crunch.

5. Hazelnut Cream Donut Sandwiches

- Slice donuts in half and spread a thick layer of hazelnut cream in between.

- Add sliced bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist.

- Dust with icing sugar and serve with a fork and knife for a gourmet touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is hazelnut cream made of?

Hazelnut cream is typically made from roasted hazelnuts, sugar, and sometimes cocoa or milk powder. It’s blended into a smooth, rich spread, similar to Nutella, but can also be homemade for a more natural version.

2. Can I use store-bought hazelnut spread for donuts?

Yes, store-bought hazelnut spreads like Nutella or other brands work perfectly as a filling or topping for donuts. You can also mix it with whipped cream or pastry cream for a lighter texture.

3. How do I fill donuts with hazelnut cream?

Use a piping bag with a long nozzle to inject the hazelnut cream into the center of the donut. Make sure the donuts are completely cooled before filling to avoid melting the cream.

4. Can hazelnut cream donuts be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the donuts and fill them a few hours in advance. However, for best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to fill and glaze them the same day they are served.

5. Are there any nut-free alternatives to hazelnut cream?

For those with nut allergies, you can substitute hazelnut cream with sunflower seed butter or chocolate spread made from seeds or soy. Always check labels for allergen information.