If you dream about perfectly soft donuts rolled in sparkly sugar, with rich, velvety chocolate hidden inside, then Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate are your new happy place! This recipe has all the fun of homemade donuts—pillowy, golden, and decadent—but kicks things up a notch with an irresistibly gooey chocolate center.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Show-stopping Texture: Each bite is ultra-soft, fluffy, and meltingly tender, thanks to the rich, homemade dough.
- Hidden Chocolate Surprise: Cutting (or biting!) into one reveals a generous, silky chocolate center—pure joy for chocoholics and kids alike.
- Rolling in Sugar Bliss: The warm donuts get rolled in crunchy granulated sugar, creating an instant bakery feel at home.
- Customizable & Fun: Whether you play with fillings or toppings, these donuts let you get creative and make them your very own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate is how a handful of humble ingredients can create something utterly irresistible. Each component plays a special part, from airy dough to that magical molten center, bringing bakery-level bliss to your own kitchen.
- Milk: Adds tenderness, moisture, and helps activate the yeast—just make sure it’s lukewarm, not hot!
- Instant Yeast: The secret to that pillowy rise and light, airy texture—fresh yeast makes all the difference.
- White Caster Sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the richness, without making it cloying.
- Vanilla Sugar (or extract): Adds subtle floral notes that make your donuts smell like heaven.
- Butter: Richness and flavor, plus a delicate crumb in the finished dough.
- Egg: Binds everything together and makes the dough richer and softer.
- All-purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough; be sure to measure carefully for the fluffiest results.
- Salt: Just a pinch elevates the sweetness and chocolate filling.
- Chocolate Spread: The irresistible, melty center—go classic, or try a hazelnut-chocolate blend for extra decadence.
- Granulated Sugar: For rolling and coating, creating that iconic sparkle and crunch on the outside.
- Sunflower Oil (for frying): Gives you a light, golden crust and neutral taste.
Variations
One of my favorite things about Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate is just how easy they are to make your own. Whether it’s switching up flavors to please picky eaters, or adapting for allergies, you can play with the fillings and the coatings. Let your creativity shine!
- Different Fillings: Try swapping the chocolate for jam, dulce de leche, or even peanut butter for a fun twist.
- Bake Instead of Fry: If you prefer, bake your donuts at 350°F/175°C until golden, then brush with butter before rolling in sugar (they’ll be lighter, but still delicious).
- Go Vegan: Use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and dairy-free chocolate spread for an equally dreamy vegan version.
- Spiced Sugar Coating: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to your rolling sugar for an aromatic, warming note.
How to Make Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate
Step 1: Make and Knead the Dough
Start by gently warming your milk until it’s just lukewarm (not hot—that’s crucial for yeast!). In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, instant yeast, white caster sugar, and vanilla sugar. Whisk vigorously so the yeast can wake up and mingle. Then add the melted butter and beaten egg, mixing until well combined. Sprinkle in the flour and salt, and knead by hand or mixer for 10–12 minutes until your dough is soft, elastic, and just a bit tacky. Don’t rush the kneading—this gives your donuts their signature fluff!
Step 2: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball, cover the bowl, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. The dough should double in size (this is always the most magical part for me!). If your kitchen is chilly, you can use a turned-off, pre-warmed oven as a cozy rising spot.
Step 3: Shape and Fill
Once risen, punch down the dough—so satisfying! Divide it into 12 equal pieces (aim for about 58g each), and roll each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a small circle, then pipe or spoon a little chocolate spread into the center. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal. A tiny dab of water helps the edges stick if needed. It’s so important to seal them well: you want your chocolate to stay inside where it belongs.
Step 4: Second Rise
Let your chocolate-filled bundles rest and rise a second time, covered, for about 30 minutes. They’ll get puffy, soft, and ready for frying—almost doubling again in size. This stage is the secret to that pillowy bite you love in Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate!
Step 5: Fry and Coat
Heat sunflower oil in a deep skillet or pot to 175°C/350°F. Gently lower each donut in, frying in batches until beautifully golden on both sides—about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain briefly on paper towels. While still warm (but safe to touch), roll each donut in granulated sugar, coating generously for that classic sparkle and crunch.
Pro Tips for Making Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate
- Lukewarm Magic: Always use milk that’s between 37-40°C—too hot, and you’ll stunt your yeast, too cold, and your dough will rise painfully slow.
- Knead Until Silky: The dough should feel stretchy, soft, and pass the “windowpane test” (it stretches thin without tearing)—this gives unbeatable texture.
- Seal the Fillings: Be meticulous about sealing the chocolate filling—moistening the dough edges helps avoid leaks and ensures a gooey center.
- Sugary Coating Timing: Roll your donuts in sugar while they’re still warm from the fryer—it sticks much better for the ultimate crunch and sparkle!
How to Serve Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate
Garnishes
Though Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate are already showstoppers, you can dress them up with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of extra melted chocolate, or even a pinch of flaky sea salt for a contemporary twist. For extra sparkle, add a sprinkle of edible glitter on top—why not?
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a steaming mug of coffee or hot chocolate for all the cozy café vibes. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes these donuts an unforgettable dessert, while fresh berries add brightness and balance to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the donuts on a cake stand for an eye-catching centerpiece, or thread a few onto skewers for a fun brunch treat. For parties, arrange mini donut “bites” around bowls of chocolate ganache or fruit dips—guests will adore the interactive twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have extras, pop cooled Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate into an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, but are always best enjoyed fresh—just like at the bakery!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these beauties! Let them cool completely, skip the sugar coating, and freeze in a single layer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw, warm, and roll in fresh sugar for that just-made taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat in a low oven (about 150°C/300°F) for a few minutes until warm and pillowy. Skip the microwave if you can—the oven keeps the outside crisp and prevents the chocolate from escaping!
FAQs
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Can I make Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough a day ahead and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. Fill, shape, and do the final rise when you’re ready to fry the next day—fresh, warm donuts on demand!
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My donuts are oily. What went wrong?
Most often, donuts absorb too much oil if your frying temperature is too low. Always let your oil come up to 175°C/350°F, and fry in small batches to maintain the heat.
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Can I use other fillings besides chocolate?
Definitely! Jam, caramel, or even lemon curd work beautifully. Just be sure your filling isn’t too runny, which can make sealing more difficult.
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How can I tell the dough is kneaded enough?
Your dough should feel smooth and stretchy and pass the “windowpane test” (stretch a small piece between your fingers—it should thin out without breaking). If in doubt, knead another minute or two!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to bite into a warm, sparkling donut and discover that soft chocolate center. Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate truly transform any day into a celebration, and sharing them with friends or family is even sweeter. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed how simple, fun, and joyful homemade donuts can be!
Print
Sugar Donuts Filled With Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of these homemade sugar donuts filled with rich chocolate spread. These decadent treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack anytime!
Ingredients
DOUGH
- 190 ml milk
- 7 g instant yeast
- 30 g white caster sugar
- 16 g vanilla sugar
- 35 g butter
- 1 egg
- 400 g flour
- 4 g salt
FILLING
- 200 g chocolate spread
COATING
- Granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine lukewarm milk, instant yeast, white caster sugar, and vanilla sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter, beaten egg, flour, and salt. Knead for 10-12 minutes until smooth. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Fill and Shape: Divide dough into 12 pieces. Roll each into a circle. Fill with chocolate spread, fold, and seal. Let rise for 30 minutes.
- Fry: Heat oil to 175°C/350°F. Fry donuts until golden. Roll in granulated sugar while warm.
Notes
- Ensure milk temperature is around 37-40°C for yeast activation.
- Proper kneading results in a light dough texture.
- Seal dough edges well to prevent filling leakage during frying.
- Roll donuts in sugar while warm for better adherence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: Approximately 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
