Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 41 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: European, Italian-inspired

Description

These Braided Nutella Buns are a decadent and delicious homemade treat featuring a soft, rich dough braided with a luscious Nutella filling and topped with crunchy chopped hazelnuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these buns combine the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread with the irresistible sweetness of Nutella and nuts.


Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup additional flour (to finish dough)

Filling and Topping

  • 1/2 cup Nutella
  • 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts


Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and active dry yeast to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  2. Heat Milk and Butter: In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and unsalted butter until warm, reaching about 120-130°F, which helps activate the yeast without killing it.
  3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the warm milk and butter mixture along with the egg into the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on low speed for 30 seconds to combine, then increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes to develop the dough structure.
  4. Add Remaining Flour: Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of flour to form a soft and pliable dough that is slightly sticky but manageable.
  5. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead by hand for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
  6. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size, indicating the yeast has fermented properly.
  7. Preheat Oven & Prepare Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the risen dough to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape in preparation for filling.
  8. Spread Nutella: Evenly spread 1/2 cup of Nutella over the dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spilling during rolling.
  9. Roll Dough and Slice: Tightly roll the dough from one long edge to the other, then slice the roll into 8 even pieces to create the strands for braiding.
  10. Braid the Dough: Twist and braid the sliced pieces together to form an attractive loaf or braid shape and place it into a greased baking dish.
  11. Second Rise: Allow the braided dough to rise for another 20-30 minutes, letting it puff up slightly for a lighter texture after baking.
  12. Bake: Bake the braid in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the buns turn a golden brown color and are cooked through.
  13. Add Topping: Remove the buns from the oven and immediately sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the top for a crunchy, nutty finish.
  14. Cool and Serve: Let the braided Nutella buns cool slightly before serving, allowing the filling to set and the buns to be easier to handle and enjoy.

Notes

  • Make sure the milk and butter mixture is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • For extra shine, brush the tops of the buns with an egg wash before baking.
  • Nutella can be substituted with other chocolate-hazelnut spreads or jam for variation.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Chopped hazelnuts add texture and complement the Nutella flavor perfectly; feel free to toast them for extra aroma.