Crispy Nutella Bites

Indulge in a truly extraordinary dessert experience with these irresistible **Deep Fried Nutella** bites. Imagine a perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior giving way to an incredibly warm, gooey, and rich Nutella center. This decadent treat transforms a beloved hazelnut spread into a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to create at home.

For anyone who adores the creamy, chocolatey goodness of hazelnut spread, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast: the satisfying crunch of the fried batter followed by the luxurious melt of warm Nutella. It’s an addictive combination that promises to elevate your dessert game and impress family and friends.

This deep-fried delight is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. It takes mere minutes to prepare these golden nuggets, turning a simple snack into a gourmet indulgence. The magic happens when the cold Nutella meets the hot oil, creating a molten core encased in a perfectly crisp shell. Prepare yourself for a treat that will be requested time and time again.

If you’re a true Nutella aficionado, you might also enjoy exploring other delightful ways to incorporate this beloved spread into your baking. Discover recipes for Nutella Stuffed Cookies, a quick and easy Nutella Mug Cake, a creamy Nutella Frosting, and a heavenly Nutella Pie. For those with a sweet tooth beyond Nutella, we also have a fantastic collection of 25 Best Cotton Candy Desserts that are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Why You’ll Love This Deep Fried Nutella Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Deep Fried Nutella recipe stands out as a true crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with contrasting textures and rich flavors.

• Unforgettable Texture Contrast: The magic of this dessert lies in its perfect balance. You get a delightful crunch from the golden-fried batter, followed by the luxurious, molten warmth of the Nutella filling. This textural interplay is simply divine.
• Explosion of Flavor: Nutella’s signature hazelnut chocolate flavor is intensified when warmed, becoming even more fragrant and indulgent. It’s a concentrated burst of deliciousness in every bite.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. It’s the perfect dessert to whip up when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Kid-Friendly & Family Favorite: Children and adults alike are absolutely captivated by this treat. It’s a fun, novel way to enjoy a beloved spread, guaranteeing smiles all around your dinner table or at any gathering.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving something sweet, Deep Fried Nutella fits the bill. It’s versatile enough for a casual snack or an elegant dessert presentation.
• A Unique Twist on a Classic: If you think Nutella is delicious on toast, prepare to have your mind blown! Frying it transforms its consistency and flavor profile, offering a completely new and exciting way to enjoy this classic spread.

Essential Ingredients for Deep Fried Nutella

Crafting these heavenly Deep Fried Nutella bites requires just a handful of common ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, proving that extraordinary flavors don’t always demand a complex shopping list. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Nutella: This is the star of our show! While you can experiment with other chocolate hazelnut spreads, we highly recommend using genuine Nutella for its signature creamy texture and rich, balanced flavor. A full jar ensures you have plenty for delightful dollops.
• Pancake Mix: The secret to our crispy coating. Any good quality store-bought pancake mix will work perfectly. It provides a convenient and reliable base for the batter, ensuring a light and airy crust.
• Milk: Used to create the perfect consistency for our pancake batter. Whole milk is often preferred for a richer batter, but 2% or even a non-dairy alternative can also be used successfully.
• Vegetable Oil: You’ll need two separate amounts of vegetable oil. A small amount is mixed into the pancake batter for extra richness and crispiness, and a generous quantity is needed for deep frying. Choose a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, sunflower, or peanut oil, for the best frying results.
• Powdered Sugar: The finishing touch! A dusting of powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar) adds a beautiful presentation and a delicate sweetness that perfectly complements the rich Nutella.

You can find the precise measurements for these ingredients in the detailed recipe card located at the bottom of the page.

How to Make Deep Fried Nutella: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful Deep Fried Nutella bites is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. The key to success lies in proper preparation, especially freezing the Nutella and maintaining the correct oil temperature. Follow this guide for a perfect batch every time!

Step 1: Freeze the Nutella

Preparation is crucial for perfect Deep Fried Nutella. Begin by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop dollops of Nutella onto the prepared baking sheets. These don’t need to be perfectly round balls; irregular shapes work just fine. The goal is to have individual portions that are roughly uniform in size. Once all your Nutella dollops are on the parchment paper, place the baking sheets in the freezer. Allow them to freeze for 2 to 4 hours, or until they are completely solid. This freezing step is vital as it prevents the Nutella from melting too quickly when it hits the hot oil, ensuring a molten center and preventing leakage.

Step 2: Prepare the Oil and Batter

Next, set up your frying station. Pour about 3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pot, Dutch oven, or a heavy-bottomed frying pan. Alternatively, if you have a deep fryer, you can use that. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). A candy thermometer or deep-fry thermometer is highly recommended for accurate temperature control, which is essential for crispy, evenly cooked results. While the oil is heating, prepare the simple pancake batter. In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, one egg, milk, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth batter with no lumps. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the frozen Nutella generously.

Step 3: Dip and Fry

Once your oil is at temperature and your batter is ready, it’s time to fry. Carefully take the frozen Nutella dollops from the freezer. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and dropping the oil temperature, dip each frozen Nutella piece into the pancake batter, ensuring it’s completely coated. Gently lower the coated Nutella into the hot oil. Fry for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, turning them a few times with metal tongs to ensure even browning. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and a crispy exterior. Once fried to perfection, use the tongs to remove the Deep Fried Nutella from the oil and place them on a tray or plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil, ensuring they remain crispy and not greasy.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

The final step is to add that touch of elegance and extra sweetness. While the Deep Fried Nutella bites are still warm, sift a generous amount of powdered sugar over the top. The warmth of the fried batter will help the sugar adhere beautifully. The key to enjoying this dessert at its absolute best is to serve it immediately while it’s still warm. This is when the exterior is at its crispiest and the Nutella filling is perfectly molten and gooey. Prepare for a sensational treat that will disappear quickly!

Pro Tips for Perfect Deep Fried Nutella

Achieving Deep Fried Nutella perfection is easier with a few expert tips. These suggestions will help you master the technique and even explore exciting variations, ensuring every batch is a resounding success.

• Pancake Batter Excellence: While any good quality store-bought pancake mix works wonders, don’t hesitate to use your favorite homemade pancake batter recipe if you have one. The key is to achieve a relatively thick batter that will thoroughly coat the frozen Nutella and create a sturdy, crispy shell without being too heavy. If your batter seems too thin, add a tablespoon or two of extra pancake mix. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk.
• Precise Oil Temperature is Key: The temperature of your frying oil is paramount. Too cold, and your Nutella bites will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside warms through properly. Aim for a consistent 350°F (175°C). Use a reliable deep-fry thermometer and adjust your heat as needed. Overcrowding the pot will drop the oil temperature, so fry in small batches.
• Embrace Peanut Butter: For a delightful twist, consider substituting peanut butter for Nutella. Freeze and cook it exactly as you would the Nutella. Peanut butter enthusiasts will adore this savory-sweet option. Feeling adventurous? Try combining Nutella and peanut butter for a heavenly, nutty, chocolatey fusion that will satisfy all cravings. You can even add a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup inside a Nutella dollop before freezing for an extra surprise!
• Serve Immediately for Best Results: Deep-fried desserts are always best enjoyed fresh and warm. As they cool and are stored, the crispy batter tends to soften. While they are still delicious, that initial crisp-gooey contrast is truly something special. Plan to serve them as soon as they are ready.
• Enhance with Extracts: For an extra layer of flavor in your batter, consider adding a few drops of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a hint of espresso powder to the pancake mix. These subtle additions can elevate the overall taste profile.
• Ensure Nutella is Solid: Do not skip or shorten the freezing time for the Nutella. If the Nutella isn’t frozen solid, it will melt too quickly in the hot oil, potentially leaking out and making a mess, or resulting in a less-than-perfect gooey center.

Serving Suggestions for Deep Fried Nutella

While Deep Fried Nutella is absolutely divine on its own, especially when served warm and dusted with powdered sugar, there are many ways to elevate this decadent treat with additional toppings and accompaniments. Get creative and make it your own!

• Classic Powdered Sugar: A generous dusting of powdered sugar is the traditional and often preferred way to serve these. The delicate sweetness and elegant appearance perfectly complement the rich Nutella.
• A Scoop of Ice Cream: Pair your warm Deep Fried Nutella with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold, crispy and creamy, is simply heavenly. Our No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is an excellent choice for a homemade touch.
• Warm Sauces: Drizzle your fried Nutella with a warm sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
  • Hot Fudge Sauce: A classic combination! Our Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce Recipe adds a rich, dark chocolatey depth.
  • Caramel Sauce: A sweet and buttery caramel drizzle pairs wonderfully with the hazelnut notes of Nutella.
  • Raspberry Coulis: For a touch of fruity tartness, a fresh raspberry coulis can cut through the richness beautifully.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh, fluffy Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe adds lightness and a creamy texture that balances the richness.
• Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: Instead of plain powdered sugar, try a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. The warm spice adds another dimension of flavor that is incredibly comforting.
• Chopped Nuts: Enhance the hazelnut flavor by sprinkling some finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or pecans over the top.
• Fresh Berries: A few fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can add a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color, making the dessert feel lighter.
• Plain and Simple: Don’t underestimate the power of simplicity! These Deep Fried Nutella bites are so inherently delicious that they are truly great plain. Either way you choose to serve them, they are guaranteed to be a hit.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Deep Fried Nutella is undeniably best enjoyed fresh from the fryer, when the batter is at its crispiest and the Nutella is perfectly molten. However, if you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence with such a delicious treat!), proper storage and reheating methods can help you enjoy them later.

• Storage: Allow any leftover Deep Fried Nutella to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. It’s important to note that the crispy exterior will likely soften during refrigeration due to moisture.
• Freezing (Unfried): If you want to make ahead, freeze the Nutella dollops as instructed in Step 1. You can keep these frozen Nutella portions in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1-2 months. When ready to enjoy, prepare the batter and fry directly from frozen.
• Reheating for Crispiness: To bring back some of that desired crispiness, reheating is key. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soft and potentially soggy.
  • Air Fryer: This is an excellent method for reheating. Place the refrigerated or room-temperature Deep Fried Nutella in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and crispy again.
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the Deep Fried Nutella on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reheat for 5-8 minutes, or until warmed and crisped up.
  • Deep Frying (Quick Dip): For the ultimate crispness, you can quickly re-fry them in hot oil for about 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy again. Ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C).

While reheating can restore some crispness, the texture might not be identical to freshly fried. Nevertheless, the warm, gooey Nutella center will still be incredibly satisfying. Honestly, we rarely have many leftovers around here because everyone loves them so much!

Deep Fried Nutella Variations

The classic Deep Fried Nutella is a masterpiece on its own, but the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. With a few creative tweaks, you can easily transform these delightful bites into a personalized treat. Here are some exciting variations to try:

• Nutty Crunch: Before freezing the Nutella dollops, roll them in finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts (to enhance the Nutella flavor), almonds, or pecans. The nuts will get lightly toasted during frying, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Fruity Infusion: For a delightful sweet and tangy counterpoint, place a small piece of fresh fruit in the center of the Nutella dollop before freezing. Raspberries, strawberries, or even a small slice of banana work wonderfully.
• Spiced Batter: Elevate your pancake batter by adding warm spices. A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of pumpkin pie spice can create a comforting and aromatic experience.
• Marshmallow Core: For an ultra-gooey and nostalgic treat, embed a mini marshmallow into the center of each Nutella dollop before freezing. The marshmallow will melt into a fluffy, sweet surprise.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix a small amount of softened cream cheese with a little sugar and vanilla, then swirl it into your Nutella dollops before freezing. This adds a subtle tang and a wonderfully creamy texture.
• Chocolate Chip Batter: Stir a handful of mini chocolate chips into your pancake batter for an extra chocolatey crunch on the exterior of your fried Nutella.
• Different Spreads: Don’t limit yourself to Nutella! As mentioned in our Pro Tips, peanut butter is a fantastic alternative. You could also try cookie butter, almond butter, or even a rich caramel spread (though these might be softer when frozen, requiring more careful handling).
• Coconut Crusted: Mix a small amount of shredded coconut into your pancake batter for a tropical twist, or gently press shredded coconut onto the batter-coated Nutella before frying.

These variations offer endless possibilities to customize your Deep Fried Nutella. Experiment with your favorite flavors and textures to discover your ultimate fried dessert creation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making Deep Fried Nutella, along with helpful answers to ensure your success.

Q: Why do I need to freeze the Nutella?

A: Freezing the Nutella is the most crucial step! It ensures that the Nutella stays solid long enough in the hot oil for the batter to cook and turn golden brown. If you don’t freeze it, the Nutella would melt instantly and seep out into the oil, creating a messy situation and a hollow fried shell.

Q: What kind of oil is best for deep frying?

A: For deep frying, it’s best to use neutral-flavored oils with a high smoke point. Good choices include vegetable oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil. These oils won’t impart unwanted flavors to your dessert and can withstand high temperatures without burning.

Q: How can I tell if my oil is hot enough without a thermometer?

A: While a thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, you can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a tiny amount of batter into it. If the batter sizzles immediately and floats to the surface, the oil is ready. If it sinks and doesn’t sizzle, the oil is too cold. If it burns instantly, it’s too hot. Be cautious and adjust the heat accordingly.

Q: Can I use homemade pancake batter?

A: Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade pancake batter recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure it’s thick enough to cling to the frozen Nutella dollops and creates a good coating.

Q: Can I bake or air fry these instead of deep frying?

A: You can certainly try, but the results will not be the same. Baking or air frying will not achieve the signature crispy, puffy exterior and molten interior that deep frying provides. The batter tends to flatten and the texture will be different. For the authentic Deep Fried Nutella experience, deep frying is recommended.

Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the Nutella dollops and freeze them far in advance (up to a month in an airtight container). When you’re ready to serve, simply make the batter and fry them. This makes them an excellent dessert for entertaining, as most of the prep can be done beforehand.

Q: My Nutella leaked into the oil. What went wrong?

A: The most common reason for leakage is that the Nutella wasn’t frozen solid enough, or the oil temperature was too low. Ensure the Nutella is rock hard before dipping, and maintain the oil at a consistent 350°F (175°C).

Q: What if I don’t like powdered sugar?

A: No problem! You can top them with cinnamon sugar, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or simply leave them plain. The warm Nutella is delicious enough on its own.

More Decadent Deep Fried Desserts

If you’ve fallen in love with the magic of deep-frying and are eager to explore more crispy, warm, and utterly delicious treats, you’re in for a delightful journey. Deep frying can transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary desserts. Here are some more fantastic deep-fried dessert recipes you absolutely have to try:

• Deep Fried S’mores: Imagine the classic campfire treat, but even better! A gooey marshmallow and melted chocolate encased in a crispy graham cracker crust, all deep-fried to perfection.
• Deep Fried Brownies: Take your favorite fudgy brownie, coat it in a light batter, and deep fry it until golden. The result is an incredibly moist, warm, and chocolatey treat with a delightful crunch.
• Deep Fried Pop Tarts: A nostalgic breakfast pastry gets a luxurious makeover! Frying gives Pop Tarts an irresistible warm, flaky crust and a gooey, sweet filling.
• Easy Fried Oreos: A carnival favorite that you can easily recreate at home. Oreos are dipped in a sweet batter and fried, resulting in a soft, cake-like exterior and a melted, warm cookie center.
• Fried Cookie Dough: Indulge your inner child with this gooey, rich treat. Chunks of edible cookie dough are battered and fried, creating a warm, soft interior.
• Deep Fried Snickers Recipe: This is for the ultimate chocolate and caramel lover. A Snickers bar, dipped in batter and deep-fried, becomes a warm, gooey, and crispy confection that’s truly extraordinary.

Each of these fried treats promises a unique and satisfying dessert experience. They’re perfect for special occasions, fun gatherings, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly decadent. Dive into the world of deep-fried desserts and discover your new favorite!

These little fried delights make the best dessert and taste absolutely amazing. They are easy to make, fun to customize, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Give them a try and come back to share your experience and leave a comment. We’d love to hear how your Deep Fried Nutella turned out!