Nutella stuffed dough balls are the ultimate indulgence, featuring soft, pillowy dough filled with warm, melty Nutella in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a fun baking project, a sweet snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is simple, delicious, and impossible to resist.
These golden, fluffy dough balls are lightly crisp on the outside, soft and airy inside, and bursting with a rich, chocolate-hazelnut center. Unlike store-bought pastries, making them at home allows complete control over ingredients and freshness, ensuring the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
If you’ve been searching for an easy yet impressive homemade dessert in 2025, these Nutella stuffed dough balls are a must-try!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, no special equipment needed
- Soft, Fluffy Dough: A light texture that pairs perfectly with creamy Nutella
- Perfectly Gooey Center: Melted chocolate inside every bite
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance for baking anytime
- Customizable: Try different fillings like peanut butter, caramel, or fruit jam
Essential Equipment for Nutella Dough Balls
- Mixing bowls – For preparing and proofing the dough
- Stand mixer or hand mixer – Helps knead the dough effortlessly
- Baking sheet – To bake the dough balls evenly
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier
- Small cookie scoop or spoon – To portion Nutella neatly
- Pastry brush – For an optional egg wash to create a golden finish
Ingredients for Nutella Stuffed Dough Balls

For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- ½ cup Nutella (chilled for easier handling)
For Finishing:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing after baking)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If using a stand mixer, knead for 5 minutes on low speed).
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Portion and Fill with Nutella
- While the dough is rising, scoop small teaspoons of Nutella onto a lined plate and freeze for 15-20 minutes (this prevents Nutella from melting too quickly).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each dough piece into a small disc and place a frozen Nutella scoop in the center.
- Pinch the edges tightly to seal and roll into a smooth ball.
3. Second Rise and Baking
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
- Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the tops with melted butter or an egg wash for a golden crust.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden and fluffy.
4. Finishing Touches and Serving
- Once baked, brush with more melted butter for extra softness.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Serve warm while the Nutella is still gooey inside!
Tips for the Best Nutella Dough Balls
- Use Chilled Nutella: Freezing the filling helps prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Seal the Dough Properly: Make sure to pinch the edges well to avoid Nutella oozing out.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until just golden to keep them soft and fluffy.
- Want Extra Sweetness? Roll in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.
- Try Different Fillings: Swap Nutella for peanut butter, Biscoff spread, or caramel.
What to Serve with Nutella Dough Balls
These warm, chocolatey dough balls pair beautifully with a variety of drinks and sides.
Perfect Pairings:
- Iced or Hot Coffee – Complements the rich Nutella flavor
- Vanilla or Chocolate Ice Cream – A decadent combination
- Fresh Strawberries or Bananas – Adds a fruity contrast
- Warm Milk or Hot Chocolate – A cozy pairing for chilly evenings
Storing & Reheating Nutella Dough Balls
These treats are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored and reheated easily.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, let them thaw at room temperature before baking.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore their soft texture and gooey center.
FAQs About Nutella Stuffed Dough Balls
1. Can I use store-bought dough instead of making my own?
Yes! You can use pre-made biscuit or pizza dough for a quicker version.
2. How do I prevent Nutella from leaking out?
Ensure the edges are tightly sealed and freeze the Nutella before filling.
3. Can I air-fry these instead of baking?
Absolutely! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden.
4. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based butter and almond milk as substitutes.
5. What if I don’t have yeast?
Try a quick dough using self-rising flour and yogurt for a shortcut version.
Final Thoughts: A Chocolate Lover’s Dream in Every Bite
Nutella stuffed dough balls are a delectable, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings bakery-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a weekend indulgence, a holiday dessert, or a fun baking project, this recipe guarantees irresistible results every time.
If you love easy, handheld desserts that are packed with gooey goodness, these Nutella-filled dough balls are a must-try in 2025!

Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup Nutella (chilled)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Chill the Nutella: Scoop teaspoon-sized portions of Nutella onto a baking sheet and freeze for 15 minutes.
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla, stirring until a dough forms.
- Shape & Fill: Divide the dough into 12 pieces. Flatten each, place a frozen Nutella portion in the center, and wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges.
- Bake or Air-Fry:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes.
- Dust & Serve: Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, brush with melted butter before baking.
- Want a deep-fried version? Fry in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Pair with: Vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce!