Braided Nutella Buns: A Decadent and Delicious Treat Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with rich chocolate and nuts, then you are in for a real treat. This Braided Nutella Buns: A Decadent and Delicious Treat Recipe offers everything you could want from a homemade dessert: soft, pillowy buns intertwined with luscious Nutella and topped with crunchy hazelnuts. Each bite is a beautiful balance of sweetness and texture, perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon snacks, or sharing with friends. Once you try these buns, you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a beloved favorite that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is key to achieving those perfectly tender, flavorful buns. Each component plays a simple but essential role — from the flour providing structure to the Nutella adding that irresistible chocolate-hazelnut goodness.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your dough, giving it the perfect chew and rise.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to complement the Nutella.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the dough rise into soft, fluffy buns.
• 1/2 cup milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough and contributes to a golden brown crust.
• 1/2 cup Nutella: The star of the show, generously spreading creamy, chocolatey delight throughout.
• 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts: For a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor on top.

How to Make Braided Nutella Buns: A Decadent and Delicious Treat Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining 2 cups of flour with sugar, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. This mixture forms the base of your dough, ensuring your buns develop that perfect texture and rise evenly. Make sure to mix well so that the yeast is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Warm the Milk and Butter

In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and butter until warm but not hot (around 120-130°F). This temperature activates the yeast without killing it, setting you up for a beautifully risen dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the warm milk-butter mixture and the egg to your dry ingredients. Using a mixer or a sturdy spoon, beat on low speed for 30 seconds and then increase to high speed for 3 minutes. This vigorous mixing starts developing the dough’s structure.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Stir in the remaining flour until you have a soft dough that isn’t too sticky. This step is crucial to give your buns their tender crumb without becoming dense.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This physical effort strengthens the gluten network, resulting in that satisfying chew you want from a good bun.

Step 6: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp towel to trap the moisture. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size. Patience here rewards you with light and airy buns.

Step 7: Prepare for Braiding

Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. This makes it easy to spread your Nutella evenly and prepare the dough for slicing.

Step 8: Add Nutella and Roll

Spread half a cup of Nutella evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to make rolling easier. Then, roll the dough tightly lengthwise, creating a long log packed with chocolatey goodness.

Step 9: Slice and Braid

Slice the log into 8 even pieces, then take pairs of pieces to twist and braid them together. This braiding not only looks stunning but ensures each bite has that beautiful swirl of Nutella. Place your braided buns into a greased baking dish.

Step 10: Second Rise

Cover the buns again with a towel and let them rise for another 20 to 30 minutes. This second proofing makes the buns extra fluffy and light before baking.

Step 11: Bake and Garnish

Bake your buns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top for a delightful crunch, and let the buns cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Braided Nutella Buns: A Decadent and Delicious Treat Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts adds texture and enhances the nutty flavor already present in the Nutella. For an extra touch of elegance, dust your buns lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with a thin glaze of melted chocolate.

Side Dishes

These buns pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For brunch, consider serving them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness and add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your braided buns on a rustic wooden board or a bright, decorative plate to make them visually inviting. For a festive touch, nestle some edible flowers or mint leaves around them. You can also slice the buns and serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft while preserving the Nutella filling’s creaminess.

Freezing

If you want to make these buns ahead for a dessert emergency, wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, thaw buns overnight at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and revives the gooey Nutella center.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind it might make the buns denser and slightly alter the flavor. For best results, try a half-and-half mix with all-purpose flour.

Is it possible to make these buns dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk and use a vegan butter or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter.

Can I add other fillings besides Nutella?

Definitely! Cream cheese mixed with sugar or fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry jam make wonderful alternatives or additions to the Nutella.

Why didn’t my dough rise properly?

Yeast is sensitive to temperature. If your milk was too hot, it could have killed the yeast, or if too cold, the yeast might not activate. Make sure your liquid is comfortably warm but not hot when mixing.

How do I make the buns last longer?

Store them properly in an airtight container and refrigerate if you want to keep them for up to a week. Freezing is the best for longer storage, as previously mentioned.

Final Thoughts

Making Braided Nutella Buns: A Decadent and Delicious Treat Recipe is a beautiful way to bring warmth and sweetness into your kitchen. This recipe offers a perfect mix of simplicity and indulgence that anyone can master and enjoy. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or savoring a quiet moment alone, these buns are the kind of treat that brings smiles and satisfaction every time. So, tie your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create something unforgettable!

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