Name: Nutella Churro Donut Holes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 2 tablespoons canola oil; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1/3 cup Nutella (melted); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted); 1/3 cup white granulated sugar (for coating); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy donut hole, only to discover a luscious swirl of Nutella inside. These Nutella Churro Donut Holes are the perfect combination of soft and chewy, with the delightful crunch of cinnamon sugar on the outside. They’re not just a treat; they’re an experience! Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or enjoying them as a sweet afternoon snack, these donut holes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Nutella Churro Donut Holes are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also bring together the best of both worlds: the delightful texture of churros and the rich, creamy goodness of Nutella. The outer coating of cinnamon sugar adds a perfect sweetness that complements the hazelnut chocolate filling. Plus, they are baked, not fried, making them a bit more guilt-free while still delivering on taste. You can whip these up in under an hour, making them an ideal choice for any occasion!

Shopping List

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup Nutella, melted
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup white granulated sugar (for coating)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Baking Sheet – For baking the donut holes.
Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients.
Whisk – To beat the egg and mix dry ingredients.
Ice Cream Scoop or Spoon – For portioning the batter.
Cooling Rack – To let the donut holes cool after baking.

How to Prepare Nutella Churro Donut Holes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, egg, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Add the Nutella

Gently fold in the melted Nutella until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Portion the Batter

Using an ice cream scoop or a spoon, drop small portions of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the donut holes in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donut holes are baking, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 9: Coat the Donut Holes

Once the donut holes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a cooling rack. While they are still warm, brush them with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Nutella Churro Donut Holes warm and watch them disappear in no time!

If You’re Out Of…

Canola Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
Milk: Use any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Nutella: Try using any chocolate hazelnut spread available.
All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour can work, but it may alter the texture slightly.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Donut Holes are Dense: This could be due to overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined.
Baking Too Long: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, and a couple of minutes can make a big difference.
Nutella Doesn’t Swirl: Ensure you gently fold in the Nutella instead of stirring it in. This will help create those lovely swirls.
Cinnamon Sugar Doesn’t Stick: Make sure the donut holes are still warm when you coat them with butter and sugar.

Best Ways to Store

Nutella Churro Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: They can last up to a week in the fridge, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Common Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve, or bake them and store them as mentioned above.

Can I use a different filling instead of Nutella?

Yes! Feel free to fill them with your favorite chocolate spread, peanut butter, or even fruit preserves.

What if I don’t have an ice cream scoop?

No problem! You can use a tablespoon to portion out the batter. Just try to make them as uniform in size as possible for even baking.

How can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour mix. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

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See You at the Table

These Nutella Churro Donut Holes are sure to be the highlight of your dessert table. They capture the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging in a little self-care, these little bites of heaven will leave you wanting more. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these delightful donut holes today! Happy baking!