Braided Nutella Buns: Decadent and Delicious Nutella-Stuffed Pastry Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the cozy feeling of fresh baked goods, you are going to adore this recipe. Braided Nutella Buns: Decadent and Delicious Nutella-Stuffed Pastry Recipe combines the soft, fluffy texture of homemade bread with the rich, creamy Nutella filling that oozes with every bite. The subtle crunch of chopped hazelnuts on top adds a delightful contrast, making these buns irresistibly charming and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack anytime. Let me walk you through this delicious journey that fills your kitchen with an aroma that’s just as comforting as the taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the tender dough to the luscious Nutella filling, every component works together to give you that signature braiding that looks as lovely as it tastes.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft, yet sturdy base for the buns’ dough, making them tender and fluffy.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the Nutella’s richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The magic behind the dough’s rise and that light, airy texture.
• 1/2 cup milk: Brings moistness and tenderness to the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that soft crumb.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder and gives the buns a lovely golden color.
• 1/2 cup Nutella: The star ingredient, delivering decadence in every bite.
• 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and nuttiness to finish off the buns.

How to Make Braided Nutella Buns: Decadent and Delicious Nutella-Stuffed Pastry Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing 2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. This dry mix sets the stage for your dough, ensuring an even distribution of those essential flavors and helping the yeast activate properly.

Step 2: Warm the Milk and Butter

In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and butter until warm to the touch—between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect. This warmth helps wake up the yeast without killing it, contributing to that perfect rise later.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm milk and butter mixture along with the egg into your dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on low speed for about 30 seconds to combine, then crank it up to high for 3 full minutes. This thorough mixing helps develop the dough’s structure and activates the gluten.

Step 4: Add Remaining Flour and Form the Dough

Stir in the final 1/4 cup of flour to form a soft dough. It’ll be slightly sticky but manageable—just right for kneading.

Step 5: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead vigorously for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is key for developing that luscious texture—keep going until the dough feels soft, smooth, and springs back when pressed.

Step 6: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until doubled in size. This transformation is where your dough gains that airy, pillow-like quality.

Step 7: Prepare for Braiding

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then punch down the dough to release excess air and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. This canvas is ready to be adorned with Nutella!

Step 8: Spread Nutella Evenly

Generously spread that delicious Nutella over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This filling is the star of the show, so don’t be shy—it pays off deliciously!

Step 9: Roll and Slice

Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, then slice it into 8 even pieces. This portioning ensures every bun is packed with that amazing Nutella center.

Step 10: Twist and Braid the Dough

Take the dough slices and gently twist and braid them together. This creative step not only looks stunning but helps the Nutella meld beautifully within the dough as it bakes. Place the braid into a greased baking dish, shaping it to fit snugly.

Step 11: Let the Dough Rise Again

Cover the braid and let it rise for another 20 to 30 minutes. This additional rising gives the buns a final fluffiness and ensures a light texture inside.

Step 12: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your braided masterpiece for 20 to 25 minutes or until the buns turn a rich golden brown and are cooked through. The smell alone will have you counting down the minutes.

Step 13: Add the Finishing Touch

Once baked, sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts on top while the buns are still warm, so they stick and add that extra burst of texture and flavor.

Step 14: Cool Slightly Before Enjoying

Let your buns cool just a bit before digging in. This pause lets the Nutella settle into the dough, making every bite decadent and delicious.

How to Serve Braided Nutella Buns: Decadent and Delicious Nutella-Stuffed Pastry Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar can add a pretty, snowy look and subtle sweetness. Fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side brighten the plate and add a tart contrast that pairs wonderfully with Nutella’s richness.

Side Dishes

Serve these buns with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a complete indulgent experience. For an extra treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes the enjoyment to another level.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the buns on a rustic wooden board with scattered hazelnuts and small bowls of Nutella for dipping. You can also turn individual buns into make-your-own dessert sandwiches, layering fresh fruit or cream between split buns for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Braided Nutella Buns fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and avoids drying out, perfect if you want to savor these treats over a couple of days.

Freezing

These buns freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw overnight or at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to soften the dough and melt the Nutella slightly. This revives their fresh-baked charm in a snap.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Using whole wheat flour will give the buns a denser texture and a nuttier flavor. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a healthier twist without sacrificing too much softness.

Is it possible to make these buns dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. The buns will still be wonderfully soft and delicious.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after kneading for up to 24 hours. Just let it warm up and rise fully at room temperature before shaping and baking the next day for the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the Nutella from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to leave a small border around the edges when spreading Nutella to seal the roll completely when you roll and braid the dough. This helps keep the filling inside during baking.

What if I don’t have chopped hazelnuts? Can I skip them?

You can totally leave out the hazelnuts if you prefer or swap them with chopped almonds, pecans, or even a sprinkle of coarse sugar for added texture. The buns will still be wonderfully indulgent.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Braided Nutella Buns: Decadent and Delicious Nutella-Stuffed Pastry Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those feel-good recipes that makes your kitchen smell fantastic and your taste buds dance with joy. Whether for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a special dessert, these buns bring sweetness and a touch of magic to any occasion. Once you make them, you’ll want to bake them again and again!

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