Classic Chocolate Filled Donuts

These fluffy donuts filled with luscious chocolate offer a perfect combination of comforting sweetness and a tender, golden crust. Ideal for breakfast or a sweet snack, they bring a touch of indulgence while maintaining a classic homemade charm.

I remember making these on a chilly morning when the whole house smelled like fresh baking and chocolate. Now whenever I make them, it brings a smile to everyone’s face and feels like a little celebration.

Ingredients

• Active dry yeast: for that essential rise giving donuts their airy lightness
• Whole milk: warmed to just the right temperature to activate the yeast without killing it
• Granulated sugar: to sweeten the dough delicately and help yeast fermentation
• Unsalted butter: softened for richness and tender crumb in the dough
• One large egg: adding structure and moisture for a balanced texture
• Allpurpose flour: as the sturdy base choose a fresh bag for best results
• Salt: to enhance and balance all the flavors
• Vegetable oil or canola oil: for deep frying ensures a neutral taste and crisp exterior
• Semisweet or milk chocolate chips: combined with heavy cream create the smooth filling pick good quality chocolate for best flavor
• Powdered sugar: optional for a light dusting finish to add a touch of elegance

Instructions

Soothe the Yeast:

Combine active dry yeast with warmed milk in a large bowl. Let it rest for five minutes until foamy to make sure the yeast is alive and ready for action.

Mix the Dough:

Add sugar, softened butter, egg, flour, and salt directly to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough begins to form, making sure no dry flour patches remain.

Knead the Dough:

Move the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for five to seven minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic which is crucial for light, fluffy donuts.

First Rise:

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and leave in a warm place until doubled in size. This generally takes about one hour and is what creates the airy texture.

Shape the Donuts:

Deflate the dough gently and roll it out evenly to about half an inch thickness. Use a round cutter two and a half to three inches wide to cut circles for your donuts.

Second Rise:

Arrange the cut dough on a baking sheet and cover with a clean towel. Let them rise again for thirty minutes to fluff up and become soft before frying.

Prepare the Oil and Fry:

Heat oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the donuts in batches, turning after one to two minutes until golden brown and cooked inside. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Make the Filling:

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 20 second spurts, stirring each time until completely melted and smooth.

Fill the Donuts:

Once slightly cooled, fill each donut with the melted chocolate using a piping bag or a small knife carefully to create a perfect gooey center. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for a pretty finish.

Chocolate is my favorite ingredient here because it melts perfectly into the warm donut, making each bite feel like a small celebration. I still recall the first time I filled these and how the chocolate spilled out invitingly; it was pure happiness on a plate.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid the fridge as it can dry them out. Reheat briefly in a microwave or oven to revive softness.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond milk or oat milk warmed for a dairy-free alternative with a subtle change in flavor. Coconut oil can replace butter for a different richness but keep the quantity the same. For a variety in filling, try using a jam or custard if you want something other than chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate to complement the warm flavors. Dusting with powdered sugar adds an elegant touch but a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk is also delicious. Serve them slightly warm for the best gooey chocolate experience.

These chocolate filled donuts are best served warm for maximum gooeyness. Share them fresh with friends or family for the most enjoyment.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How do I achieve fluffy donuts?

Activate the yeast properly and allow ample rising time to develop a light, airy dough. Kneading until smooth and elastic is key.

→ What type of chocolate is best for the filling?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips melted with heavy cream create a smooth, rich filling that balances sweetness.

→ At what temperature should I fry the donuts?

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, ensuring a cooked-through interior.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and allow it to proof in the refrigerator overnight for improved flavor development.

→ How should I store leftover donuts?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate to prolong freshness.