What You’ll Need: Ingredients Breakdown
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the mixing and frying, let’s start with what you’ll need. This recipe simplifies the doughnut making process without compromising on taste:
- 1 cup all purpose flour – The base of our doughnut structure.
- 1/4 cup sugar – Just the right amount for a light sweetness.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Ensures our doughnuts puff up nicely.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk – Adds moisture to the dough.
- 1/4 cup melted butter – Brings richness and tender texture.
- 1/4 cup Nutella – The star ingredient for that chocolate hazelnut goodness.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Oil for frying – Canola or vegetable oil is perfect for achieving a crispy finish.
Step by Step Doughnut Making Process
Preparing the Dough
Let’s start by combining our dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and everything is evenly distributed.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, Nutella, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture should be velvety and irresistible, hinting at the delicious doughnuts to come.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix here. The dough should be sticky but manageable.
Frying to Perfection
Getting the Oil Ready
Heat your oil in a deep saucepan over medium heat to 350°F (180°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, a small piece of dough should sizzle when it hits the oil.
Cooking Your Doughnuts
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop balls of dough into the hot oil. They need space to expand, so don’t crowd the pan. Fry the doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown.
Finishing Touches
Transfer the cooked doughnuts onto a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil. This step is vital as it helps keep them from becoming greasy.
Decorating and Serving
Adding Extra Flair
While the doughnuts are still warm, you can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with additional Nutella. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances the flavor.
Enjoying Your Creation
These Nutella doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them warm to experience the full gooey, chocolatey goodness of the Nutella filling.