Name: Braided Nutella Buns Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (320 gr) bread flour; 1 packet (1/4 oz, 21 gr) active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup (50 gr) sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk; 4 oz (115 gr) unsalted butter, softened; about 1 cup Nutella or other chocolate spread; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon water

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 33 reviews

If you are on the lookout for an irresistible treat that is both comforting and playful, this Braided Nutella Buns Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine soft, fluffy dough swirled with rich, creamy Nutella, twisted into elegant braids, then baked to golden perfection. These buns are perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a delightful dessert. The combination of pillowy bread and luscious chocolate-hazelnut spread will have you reaching for seconds before you know it!

Ingredients You'll Need

Two images show the making of a rolled dough treat on a white marbled surface. The dough is light beige with a smooth texture and is rolled out flat into a rectangle. It has a thick layer of dark brown chocolate spread on top, covering most of the dough evenly. In the first image, a woman's two hands are gently folding the dough over from the bottom edge, starting to roll it up. In the second image, a woman's both hands are seen fully rolling the dough into a log shape, with the chocolate layer on the inside. The dough has some slight brown spots and powdery flour dust on it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital part in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the bread flour that gives structure to the dough, to the warm milk and butter which ensure tenderness, every ingredient counts.

Bread flour (2 ½ cups or 320 gr): Provides the ideal protein content for a soft yet sturdy bun.

Active dry yeast (1 packet or 21 gr): Essential for a fluffy rise and that perfect airy crumb.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Sugar (¼ cup or 50 gr): Adds subtle sweetness and helps with browning.
Large egg (1): Adds richness and aids binding in the dough.

Warm milk (½ cup or 120 ml): Activates the yeast and makes the dough tender.
Unsalted butter (4 oz or 115 gr, softened): Contributes to softness and flavor depth.
Nutella or chocolate spread (about 1 cup): The star ingredient for that ooey-gooey chocolate-hazelnut surprise.

Egg for egg wash (1) and 1 teaspoon water: Gives the buns a glossy, golden finish.

How to Make Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

Step 1: Combine and Knead the Dough

Start by adding the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, the egg, and warm milk into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a hook attachment. This is where magic begins - as you mix everything together, the dough will start to form. Once it comes together, add the softened butter in pieces and knead on medium speed for about 10 minutes until the dough turns smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing gluten, which helps your buns rise beautifully and keeps them soft.

Step 2: First Rise

Lightly flour your counter and transfer the dough there. Give it a quick knead by hand and shape it into a ball. Place it in a large bowl sprinkled with flour, cover it, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. This patient rising allows the yeast to work its magic, giving your buns their airy texture.

Step 3: Roll Out and Layer with Nutella

Once the dough has doubled, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 15 by 20 inches. Then spread a thin, even layer of Nutella over the dough. If your Nutella is a bit stiff, warming it briefly in the microwave for a few seconds will make spreading easier without tearing the dough. Next, gently fold the dough into thirds along the long side, forming a narrower 5 by 20 inches rectangle layered with Nutella inside.

Step 4: Cut and Braid the Strips

Slice the rectangle into eight strips, each about 5 by 2.5 inches. For each strip, cut two lengths down the center, creating three narrower strips, then carefully braid these together. This braiding technique not only looks gorgeous but helps trap the chocolate spread inside every twist. After braiding, roll each braid up along its length into a knot-like shape.

Step 5: Second Rise in Muffin Tins

Grease eight muffin tins and nestle each rolled braid inside. Cover them and let the buns rise again for about one hour until they puff up nicely. This second rise ensures your buns will be light and fluffy with that perfect tender crumb.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Just before baking, whisk the egg with a teaspoon of water to create the egg wash, then brush it gently over the tops of the buns. This gives them that stunning golden shine we've all come to love. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 18 minutes until the buns are beautifully browned. If the egg wash sticks to the muffin tins, carefully loosen the edges with a knife after baking to make removal easy. Let them cool slightly and prepare for deliciousness!

How to Serve Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

In the image, there is a close-up view of a single muffin cup filled with a twisted dough knot. The dough is pale yellow, soft, and smooth, with multiple layers clearly visible, wrapped around a dark brown chocolate-like filling that peeks through the folds. The twisted layers alternate between the dough and the rich filling, creating a striped effect. The muffin tin is white instead of its original color, placed on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is visible gently holding the edge of the muffin tin. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these buns are stunningly tasty on their own, feel free to sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the top for a touch of elegance. A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a few chopped hazelnuts can add attractive textures and make your presentation pop.

Side Dishes

Serve these buns alongside a warm mug of coffee or tea for a lovely breakfast or brunch setting. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a small bowl of yogurt to balance the richness of the Nutella filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate by arranging the buns on a pretty wooden board or wicker basket lined with a colorful napkin. You can also serve them in mini cake stands or tiered trays for a charming brunch party feel. These buns practically steal the show with their braided shape and glossy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Wrapping each bun individually in plastic wrap will help keep them soft and prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the buns by first placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to one month. When you're ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive the buns, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This gives the exterior a fresh-baked crispness while warming the Nutella filling to melty perfection. A quick microwave zap for 15-20 seconds works if you’re in a hurry, but the oven method is my personal favorite.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular flour for bread flour?

You can use all-purpose flour if bread flour is not available, but the texture might be slightly less chewy and structured. Bread flour helps create that perfect soft yet resilient bun.

Is it possible to make these buns dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a plant-based milk warmed to activate the yeast. The texture may vary a bit but the flavor will still impress.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. Take it out the next day to come to room temperature before proceeding with rolling and shaping.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No worries! You can mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It just requires a bit more elbow grease but is totally doable and rewarding.

Can I use other fillings besides Nutella?

Definitely! Try almond butter, peanut butter with honey, or even fruit jams like raspberry or apricot for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Braided Nutella Buns Recipe is a wonderful way to treat yourself and loved ones with something truly special yet simple to make. The joy of braiding dough and the bliss of warm Nutella filling combine into an irresistible delight you’ll crave again and again. I promise you, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire. Go ahead and make some magic happen in your kitchen today!

Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need