Nutella Babka Buns

Soft, swirled Nutella Babka Buns are the perfect homemade treat that appeals to all ages. These delicious buns are great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making them a versatile addition to any gathering. The combination of rich Nutella and a sweet glaze is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these buns will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The creamy Nutella filling paired with a sweet glaze creates a delightful taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These buns are ideal for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply as an everyday treat.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add chopped hazelnuts or other toppings to suit your taste preferences.
• Serves a Crowd: This recipe yields 12 fluffy buns, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking Nutella Babka Buns, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough, ensuring uniform buns.
• Baking dish: A greased baking dish offers the right environment for the buns to rise and bake evenly.

Ingredients

Soft, swirled yeasted buns filled with creamy Nutella and topped with a sweet glaze – a delicious homemade treat.

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup lukewarm whole milk
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling

• 1 cup Nutella spread
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

How to Make Nutella Babka Buns

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast. Add lukewarm milk, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Stir until a dough forms. Gradually incorporate softened butter while kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the dough and allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle.

Step 4: Fill with Nutella

Spread Nutella evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. If using, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the Nutella.

Step 5: Form the Buns

Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long edge. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the slices in a greased baking dish cut side up. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Glaze

While buns are still warm, mix powdered sugar with milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the buns and serve.

How to Serve Nutella Babka Buns

Nutella Babka Buns are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these buns will impress your guests and family alike. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Enjoy with Coffee

• Pair the warm buns with a fresh cup of coffee for a comforting morning ritual. The rich taste of Nutella complements the bold flavor of coffee beautifully.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Add a side of sliced strawberries or bananas to create a refreshing contrast. The sweetness of the fruit balances the richness of the Nutella.

Top with Whipped Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, serve the buns with a dollop of whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that enhances each bite.

Accompany with Ice Cream

• Try serving warm Nutella Babka Buns alongside a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream. The melting ice cream creates an irresistible combination.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the buns on a platter with assorted pastries and chocolates. This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Nutella Babka Buns

Perfecting your Nutella Babka Buns can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your buns turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the dough rise properly and improves texture.
• Knead thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Well-kneaded dough results in softer, fluffier buns.
• Monitor rising time: Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size, which usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours. A warm environment helps speed up this process.
• Don’t skip the glaze: Drizzling a sweet glaze over warm buns adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them visually appealing.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to customize by adding different fillings like chocolate chips or almond paste along with Nutella for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Nutella Babka Buns

Nutella Babka Buns can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various side dishes for a more complete meal. Here are some excellent side dish ideas to complement your buns.

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy, fruity contrast.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy pudding made from chia seeds soaked in almond milk adds nutrition and texture.
3. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that pairs well with sweet buns.
4. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer crunch and can be enjoyed as a snack alongside the soft buns.
5. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones can serve as a nice contrast to the sweetness of the Nutella-filled rolls.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your choice of fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for added health benefits.
7. Cottage Cheese Plate: Serve cottage cheese topped with honey and nuts for added protein that complements the sweet flavors.
8. Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can enhance your enjoyment while providing a calming effect perfect for afternoon breaks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Nutella Babka Buns can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results.

• Incorrect dough temperature: If your milk is too hot or too cold, it can kill the yeast or prevent it from activating. Always ensure the milk is lukewarm for optimal yeast growth.
• Not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading can lead to dense buns. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic to achieve the right texture.
• Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy buns. Don’t rush this step; let the dough double in size in a warm environment.
• Overfilling with Nutella: While it’s tempting to add more filling, too much Nutella can cause the buns to spill over during baking. Use the recommended amount for best results.
• Not letting the buns rise before baking: Allowing the sliced buns to rise again is key for a light texture. Cover them and wait 30 minutes before placing them in the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Nutella Babka Buns in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Nutella Babka Buns

• Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These buns can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Nutella Babka Buns

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place buns on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one bun at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a bun in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Nutella Babka Buns, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use different fillings besides Nutella?

Yes! You can experiment with other spreads like almond butter or fruit preserves for varied flavors.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel light and airy when you gently poke it.

What makes these Nutella Babka Buns so special?

The soft, fluffy texture combined with the creamy Nutella filling creates an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

Can I make these buns vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

How long do these buns take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 60 minutes, including prep and bake time. However, don’t forget about rising times!

Final Thoughts

Nutella Babka Buns are a delightful treat that’s both soft and sweet, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!