Decadent Nutella-Stuffed Meatballs: A Sweet Sensation

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A Chocolate Lover’s Dream Dessert

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that defies expectations and delights the senses! These Nutella-Stuffed Meatballs are not your typical savory dish, but a unique and indulgent dessert that will leave everyone speechless. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy exterior only to discover a molten core of rich, creamy Nutella. It’s a unexpected twist that combines the comfort of a traditional treat with the pure excitement of a chocolate surprise.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Vegetable Oil: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
  • Milk: 100 g (3.5 fl oz)
  • Sugar: 100 g (3.5 oz)
  • Wheat Flour: 290 g (10.2 oz)
  • Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
  • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (5 g)

Filling and Coating

  • Nutella: 250 g (8.8 oz)
  • Frying Oil: As needed
  • Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture: For coating

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Nutella Filling

  1. Prepare Nutella Centers: Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out small, uniform balls of Nutella.
  2. Freeze Nutella: Place the Nutella balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This will help them maintain their shape during frying.

Making the Dough

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine wheat flour and baking powder.
  2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vegetable oil.
  3. Add Lemon Zest: Incorporate the fresh lemon zest into the wet ingredients.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

Assembling the Nutella Meatballs

  1. Create Dough Balls: Take small portions of the dough and flatten them into thin circles.
  2. Stuff with Nutella: Place a frozen Nutella ball in the center of each dough circle.
  3. Seal Completely: Carefully wrap the dough around the Nutella, ensuring it’s completely sealed.

Frying

  1. Heat Oil: In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to 170-180°C (340-350°F).
  2. Fry Meatballs: Carefully drop the Nutella-stuffed balls into the hot oil, frying until golden brown.
  3. Drain: Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Final Touch

  1. Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar: While still warm, roll the fried meatballs in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Serving

Serve warm, allowing the Nutella to remain wonderfully melted inside.

Nutritional Information

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 18g

Cooking Time and Preparation

  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Freezing Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the Nutella is well-frozen to prevent leaking during frying.
  • Use a candy thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even cooking.
  • Let the meatballs cool slightly before coating in cinnamon-sugar to prevent burning.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Filling Alternatives:
    • Replace Nutella with other chocolate spreads
    • Try filling with fruit preserves or caramel
  • Coating Variations:
    • Use powdered sugar instead of cinnamon-sugar
    • Drizzle with melted chocolate
  • Dietary Modifications:
    • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
    • Substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?

While frying provides the best texture, you can bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes, though the result will be less crispy.

How Long Can I Store These Meatballs?

Best consumed immediately, but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

Can I Prepare These in Advance?

You can prepare the dough and freeze the Nutella centers ahead of time.

Are They Suitable for Vegetarians?

Yes, these are vegetarian-friendly.

How Do I Prevent the Nutella from Leaking?

Ensure the dough completely seals the Nutella and that the Nutella is frozen solid before frying.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Room Temperature: Consume within 24 hours
  • Refrigeration: Not recommended as it affects texture
  • Freezing: Not ideal due to the fried nature of the dessert

Get ready to surprise and delight with these extraordinary Nutella-Stuffed Meatballs—a dessert that’s sure to become a memorable treat for chocolate lovers of all ages!