If you love the idea of a sweet, homemade treat that looks as impressive as it tastes, you are going to adore this Braided Nutella Buns Recipe. Soft, fluffy dough intertwines with rich Nutella, creating a decadent swirl of chocolatey hazelnut goodness in every bite. These buns are perfect for breakfast gatherings, afternoon snacks, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. The beautiful braided design not only makes them stunning to serve but also helps keep every morsel tender and full of flavor. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

Braided Nutella Buns Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple pantry staples that come together to build the perfect bun: soft, enriched dough paired with creamy Nutella and crunchy hazelnuts for texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding moisture, sweetness, structure, or that irresistible nutty flavor.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough that gives structure while keeping it tender.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the Nutella.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the buns more savory and balanced.
Active dry yeast: Responsible for that beautiful rise and airy texture.
Milk: Provides moisture for soft, tender buns and helps activate the yeast.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth feel to the dough.
Large egg: Binds the dough and gives richness and color.
Nutella: The star of the show, spreading creamy chocolate-hazelnut goodness throughout.
Chopped hazelnuts: Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and enhanced nutty flavor.

How to Make Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. This mixture forms the foundation for your dough, and combining these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of the yeast and flavor throughout.

Step 2: Warm Milk and Butter

Gently heat the milk and butter together until warm—around 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmth awakens the yeast and softens the butter, essential for making the dough tender and letting it rise beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the warm milk-butter mixture along with the egg to your dry ingredients. Beat on low for 30 seconds so everything starts to come together, then crank up the speed for 3 minutes to develop gluten and create a light, airy dough.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Stir in the remaining flour until the dough is soft and slightly sticky. Then turn it out onto a floured surface to knead. Kneading for 5 to 7 minutes develops the gluten network, giving you that elastic texture that rises perfectly in the oven.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rest in a warm spot. During this hour-long rise, the dough doubles in size as the yeast works its magic—this is when the flavor really begins to deepen.

Step 6: Roll Out and Spread Nutella

Once your dough has doubled, punch it down gently and roll it out into a neat rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the Nutella evenly, leaving a little border so it doesn’t spill out when you roll.

Step 7: Roll, Slice, and Braid

Roll the rectangle tightly into a log, then slice it into 8 even pieces. Twist and braid these pieces to form a decorative bun. This braiding isn’t just beautiful; it traps pockets of Nutella and creates those irresistible layers.

Step 8: Second Rise and Bake

Place your braided creation into a greased baking dish and let it rise again for 20 to 30 minutes. Then bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and perfectly cooked through.

Step 9: Add the Final Touch

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the warm buns to add crunch and highlight that wonderful nutty flavor. Let them cool slightly before diving in for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate pairs wonderfully with the buns’ rich Nutella flavor. You can also add a few more chopped hazelnuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-savory twist that absolutely delights the palate.

Side Dishes

Serve these buns with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte for a perfect breakfast or brunch. They also go well with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to lighten the richness and add a burst of freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Place your braided buns on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of hazelnuts and chocolate spread for a charming breakfast display. You can also slice the bun and use it as a decadent sandwich with mascarpone cheese and sliced strawberries for an unexpected, elegant treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover braided Nutella buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their softness, you can wrap the container with a clean kitchen towel that helps retain moisture without making the crust soggy.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these buns later, freeze them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature or overnight in the fridge for a fresh-baked feel without the work.

Reheating

Reheat the buns gently in a 325-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes to bring back their warmth and softness. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave also works but may slightly change the texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute whole milk with another type of milk?

Absolutely! You can use any milk you prefer, like almond or oat milk, but keep it unsweetened and warm to ensure the yeast activates properly and the dough rises nicely.

Is it necessary to use active dry yeast?

Active dry yeast is recommended for this recipe because it provides a reliable rise and flavor, but instant yeast can work too—you’d just mix it with the flour instead of activating it in the warm milk.

Can I use peanut butter or another spread instead of Nutella?

While Nutella’s unique chocolate-hazelnut flavor is iconic here, feel free to experiment with other spreads like peanut butter or even fruit preserves for a whole new delicious twist.

What if my dough is sticky and hard to handle?

It’s normal for enriched dough to be slightly sticky. Dust your hands and work surface lightly with flour to prevent sticking without adding too much, which can make the buns dense.

Can I make these buns vegan?

With some swaps like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer, you can definitely make a vegan version of the Braided Nutella Buns Recipe. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Braided Nutella Buns Recipe is one of those magical treats that bring joy to both the kitchen and the table. The combination of soft dough, luscious Nutella filling, and crunchy hazelnuts wrapped in a beautiful braid makes every bite unforgettable. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful homemade treasure. You’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is to create a show-stopping dessert that tastes like pure love.