Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins

Introduction

Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen, but with a delightful surprise hidden inside—rich, creamy Nutella. Welcome to the world of Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins, where two beloved treats merge into one irresistible indulgence. These soft, cake-like muffins boast the fluffy texture of doughnuts and the gooey center of a filled pastry, all in a convenient, handheld form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these muffins bring joy with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be approachable, fun, and utterly delicious. Get ready to elevate your baking game with a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is satisfying.

The History

The concept of stuffed muffins has evolved from classic American baking traditions, where bakers began experimenting with hidden fillings to add excitement to simple recipes. Meanwhile, doughnut-inspired muffins gained popularity as a healthier, less greasy alternative to traditional fried doughnuts. The fusion of these ideas paved the way for creations like Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins. Nutella, invented in Italy during the 1940s by Pietro Ferrero as a way to stretch scarce cocoa supplies, eventually became a global phenomenon. Its creamy, chocolate-hazelnut flavor pairs perfectly with soft baked goods, making it a favorite filling for pastries and desserts. Over the years, home bakers and food bloggers have reimagined how to incorporate Nutella into muffin form, leading to the now-beloved stuffed version that combines the best of both worlds: the moist crumb of a muffin and the decadent surprise of a filled confection. Today, Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins are a staple at brunch spreads, bake sales, and family gatherings, symbolizing comfort, creativity, and culinary innovation.

Ingredients Breakdown

To create the perfect batch of Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the ideal texture, flavor, and structure:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base structure for the muffins, ensuring a tender yet sturdy crumb.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Work together as leavening agents to give the muffins their rise and lightness, mimicking the airy texture of real doughnuts.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the richness of the other ingredients.
• Nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and depth, complementing the nuttiness of the Nutella.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter while contributing to a golden-brown crust when baked.
• Butter (unsalted): Adds moisture and richness; using unsalted butter allows control over the salt content.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the muffin’s structure and fluffiness.
• Vanilla Extract: Imparts a sweet, floral note that enhances the overall aroma and taste.
• Buttermilk: Reacts with baking soda to create lift and tenderness, giving the muffins a delicate, cake-like consistency.
• Nutella: The star of the show—this creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread provides the molten center that makes these muffins so special.
• Butter (for brushing) & Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Applied after baking, this combination gives the muffins their signature doughnut-like finish, adding crunch and flavor with every bite.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease thoroughly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, and a pinch of ground nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat ½ cup (1 stick) of softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with ½ cup of buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix to avoid dense muffins.
6. Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon about 1½ tablespoons of batter into each muffin cup, spreading it slightly to form a small well in the center.
7. Add Nutella: Place approximately 1 teaspoon of Nutella into the center of each batter-lined cup. Be careful not to let it touch the sides or rise above the surface.
8. Top with More Batter: Cover the Nutella with another 1½ tablespoons of batter, sealing the filling completely. Smooth the tops gently with a spoon or damp finger.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean (avoid piercing the Nutella core).
10. Cool Slightly: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
11. Coat with Butter and Cinnamon-Sugar: While still warm, brush the tops and sides generously with melted butter, then roll or sprinkle with a mixture of ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for that classic doughnut finish.
12. Serve Warm: Enjoy immediately while warm for the ultimate gooey Nutella experience!

Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, emulsified batter.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much Nutella can cause leakage during baking. Stick to 1 teaspoon per muffin for optimal results.
• Seal the Filling: Make sure the Nutella is completely covered by batter to prevent bursting or leaking in the oven.
• Use Quality Nutella: Fresh, high-quality Nutella ensures the best flavor and gooey texture. Avoid substituting with overly thick or stale spreads.
• Check Early: Ovens vary—start checking muffins at 18 minutes to prevent overbaking, which can dry them out.
• Brush While Warm: Applying melted butter and cinnamon-sugar while the muffins are warm helps the coating adhere better.
• Uniform Scooping: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon measure for consistent sizing and even baking.
• Cool Before Storing: Let muffins cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins lies in their versatility. Here are some creative twists to personalize your batch:

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a dollop of peanut butter alongside the Nutella for a rich, savory contrast.
• White Chocolate or Dark Chocolate Chips: Fold a handful into the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Fruit-Filled Options: Replace Nutella with raspberry jam, apple butter, or lemon curd for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for those with sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt mixed with lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), use vegan butter and dairy-free milk with vinegar for buttermilk.
• Mini Muffins: Make bite-sized versions using a mini muffin tin—bake for 10–12 minutes and use ½ tsp Nutella per muffin.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Add cocoa powder to the batter (2–3 tablespoons) to deepen the chocolate flavor.
• Spiced Version: Boost warmth with additional spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or pumpkin spice in the batter.
• Drizzled Finish: After cooling, drizzle with melted Nutella, white chocolate, or a simple powdered sugar glaze for added elegance.
• Stuffed with Marshmallows: Place a mini marshmallow under the Nutella for a gooey, melty surprise.
• Salted Caramel Core: Layer Nutella with a small amount of salted caramel sauce for a decadent combo.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins are undeniably indulgent, it’s important to enjoy them mindfully. Each muffin contains approximately 320–360 calories, depending on size and ingredients used. Key nutritional components include:

• Calories: Primarily from carbohydrates and fats due to sugar, flour, butter, and Nutella.
• Fat Content: Around 15–18g per muffin, mostly from saturated fat in butter and palm oil in Nutella. Opt for reduced-fat spreads cautiously, as texture may suffer.
• Sugar: High in added sugars (about 25–30g per muffin), mainly from Nutella and granulated sugar. Consider reducing sugar in the batter slightly if desired.
• Protein: Modest protein content (around 4–5g) from eggs and milk, but not a significant source.
• Fiber: Low in fiber unless whole wheat flour is used as a partial substitute.

To make a slightly healthier version:

• Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce sugar in the batter by ¼ cup without sacrificing too much sweetness.
• Use a lighter Nutella-style spread (though taste and texture may vary).
• Serve in moderation—these are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast item.
• Pair with a side of fresh fruit or Greek yogurt to balance the meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 12 teaspoons (approximately ½ cup) Nutella
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line or grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
3. In a separate bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
6. Spoon 1½ tablespoons of batter into each muffin cup.
7. Place 1 teaspoon of Nutella in the center of each.
8. Cover with another 1½ tablespoons of batter, sealing the Nutella inside.
9. Bake for 18–22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
11. Brush warm muffins with melted butter and coat generously with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
12. Serve warm and enjoy!

FAQ

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes! Bake and cool them completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving to restore the gooey center.

Can I freeze Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins?
Absolutely. Freeze cooled muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

Why did my Nutella leak out during baking?
This usually happens if the filling isn’t fully sealed by the batter or if too much Nutella is used. Ensure you cover the Nutella completely with more batter.

Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, though the texture will be slightly different. Use ⅓ cup of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) in place of butter for a moister crumb, but expect less richness.

Is there a way to make them without buttermilk?
Yes! Mix ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly curdled—it will work as a great substitute.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches if needed. Just don’t overcrowd your oven.

Are these muffins kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the surprise center and sweet flavor. They’re perfect for school snacks, lunchboxes (without the topping), or weekend baking projects.

Can I use a different chocolate spread?
Yes, though Nutella’s unique texture works best. Alternatives like generic hazelnut spreads or homemade versions may alter consistency and taste slightly.

Summary

Nutella Stuffed Doughnut Muffins combine the fluffy texture of muffins with the rich, gooey center of filled doughnuts, creating an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to delight, they’re a must-try for chocolate and baking lovers alike.