Heart-Shaped Fritters with Hazelnut Cream: A Sweet and Fluffy Treat!

These Heart-Shaped Fritters are a perfect blend of soft, fluffy dough and rich, creamy hazelnut filling. Lightly fried to golden perfection and coated in sugar, these sweet treats are ideal for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for a little extra love. Whether you serve them as a breakfast indulgence or a dessert, their irresistible texture and delicious filling will make them a favorite!

What Are Heart-Shaped Fritters?

Heart-shaped fritters are soft, golden-brown pastries, lightly fried and coated in sugar. This version is Italian-inspired, made with citrus-zested dough and stuffed with creamy hazelnut spread. Think of them as a cross between donuts and fried pastries, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the main reasons you'll love this recipe is that it's perfect for special occasions. These heart-shaped treats are romantic and festive. The dough is fluffy and soft, and the rich hazelnut filling will be a creamy surprise in every bite! In just a few simple steps you'll get a delicious result. Fried to golden perfection and coated in sugar, they'll turn out extra sweet.

Pro Tips for the Best Fritters

• Use Fresh Yeast: this ensures the fluffiest dough. If using dry yeast, substitute with 3g (1 tsp) of dry yeast.
• Let the Dough Rise Fully: allow it to double in size for the softest texture.
• Don’t Overfill: use a small amount of hazelnut cream to prevent leaks.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: maintain 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
• Drain Excess Oil: place fritters on paper towels after frying to absorb extra oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Another Filling?

Yes! Try chocolate ganache, fruit jam, custard, or peanut butter for a delicious variation.

Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

How Do I Get Even Heart Shapes?

Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (10cm size) and press firmly for clean edges.

Why Didn’t My Dough Rise?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and your dough rests in a warm, draft-free area.

Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.

What’s the Best Oil for Frying?

Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil for best results.

How to Freeze Heart-Shaped Fritters

To freeze unfried fritters, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to fry, let them thaw at room temperature and rise before frying.

How to Store Heart-Shaped Fritters

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they lose their crispiness, reheat them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

How to Make Heart-Shaped Fritters

Step 1

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, lemon zest, orange zest, egg, water, salt, and butter. Mix until a dough starts to form, then knead with your hands until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, lemon zest, orange zest, egg, water, salt, and butter. Mix until a dough starts to form, then knead with your hands until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2

Step 2

Divide the dough into two halves. Roll out the first half and use a 10cm heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. Use a smaller heart cutter to create a decorative center. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Divide the dough into two halves. Roll out the first half and use a 10cm heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. Use a smaller heart cutter to create a decorative center. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 3

Step 3

Roll out the second half of the dough and divide it into sections. Spread hazelnut cream on one section, cover with another, and seal the edges well. Use a heart-shaped cutter to trim the filled pieces. Place them on a tray and let rise for 1 hour.

Roll out the second half of the dough and divide it into sections. Spread hazelnut cream on one section, cover with another, and seal the edges well. Use a heart-shaped cutter to trim the filled pieces. Place them on a tray and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 4

Step 4

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan. Fry the fritters until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan. Fry the fritters until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5

Step 5

While warm, roll the fritters in sugar to coat evenly.

While warm, roll the fritters in sugar to coat evenly.

Step 6

Step 6

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serve immediately and enjoy!