Hazelnut Cream Beignets: Soft, Fluffy Pastries Filled with Rich Hazelnut and Chocolate Cream

Why You’ll Love Hazelnut Cream Beignets Recipe

These beignets combine the irresistible texture of classic French‑style fried dough with a rich hazelnut and chocolate cream filling. The dough is soft and easy to work with, and the filling is smooth and flavorful, making every bite luxurious and satisfying. Whether you love baking or want to try something new and impressive, this recipe delivers a crowd‑pleasing result.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:
250g all‑purpose flour
100g milk
12g fresh yeast
5g salt
1 large egg
25g sugar
50g butter, softened

For the Hazelnut Cream Filling:
250g whole milk
40g egg yolks (about 2 yolks)
15g cornstarch
100g chocolate (dark or milk)
150g hazelnut spread

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, warm milk, yeast, salt, egg, and sugar. Knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes until combined. Add softened butter and continue kneading for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise: Cover and let dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–2 hours).

3. Shape the Beignets: Punch down the dough, divide into 10 equal pieces, shape into balls, and let them rise on a floured surface for 30–45 minutes.

4. Fry: Heat oil to 170–180°C (340–350°F). Fry the dough balls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

5. Make the Filling: In a saucepan, whisk milk, egg yolks, and cornstarch over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate and hazelnut spread until smooth. Cover and cool.

6. Fill the Beignets: Using a piping bag, insert a nozzle into each beignet and fill with the hazelnut cream.

7. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 hazelnut cream–filled beignets. The total time includes about 1.5–2.5 hours for rising and prep, plus frying and filling.

Variations

• Extra chocolate drizzle: Melt additional chocolate and drizzle over the beignets for more sweetness.
• Nut topping: Sprinkle finely chopped hazelnuts over chocolate for texture and flavor.
• Different spreads: Swap the hazelnut spread for almond or peanut spread for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover filled beignets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at low temperature (about 150°C / 300°F) for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy.

FAQs

What is a beignet?

A beignet is a deep‑fried pastry that’s light, fluffy, and often dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I use store‑bought dough instead of making my own?

Yes, but homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor for this recipe.

What kind of hazelnut spread works best?

You can use any chocolate‑hazelnut spread you like, such as classic nut cocoa spreads.

Can these be baked instead of fried?

Baking won’t give the same crisp exterior, but you can bake them if you prefer a less oily version.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

Heat until it reaches about 170–180°C (340–350°F); a thermometer helps ensure the right temperature.

Why did my beignets turn out dense?

Under‑proofing (not rising enough) or too hot oil can make them dense. Let the dough rise fully and maintain the correct oil temperature.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the hazelnut cream ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.

How should I store unused dough?

Refrigerate for up to a day or freeze for longer storage before shaping and frying.

Is it necessary to use fresh yeast?

You can use dry yeast if you convert the measurements appropriately.

What drink pairs well with hazelnut cream beignets?

Coffee, hot chocolate, or tea pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.

Conclusion

These Hazelnut Cream Beignets are an indulgent treat with a light, airy dough and a rich, creamy filling that combines chocolate and hazelnut flavors perfectly. With a little preparation and patience, you can make bakery‑style pastries at home that are delightful for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion.