There’s something undeniably magical about the way homemade bread fills your kitchen with warmth and anticipation, and Braided Nutella Buns take that magic to a whole new level. Imagine tender, pillowy dough twisted and coiled with swirls of creamy Nutella, baked to golden perfection and lightly dusted with powdered sugar. These beautiful, show-stopping buns are every bit as delightful to eat as they are satisfying to make. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned bread maker, you’ll fall in love with the comforting aroma, the striking shape, and the gloriously melty chocolate-hazelnut center in every bite of these Braided Nutella Buns.

Braided Nutella Buns Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore most about this recipe is how each humble ingredient plays a starring role. The straightforward staples create soft, rich buns, while the Nutella filling shines as the decadent heart of every twist. Here’s everything you’ll need for irresistible Braided Nutella Buns, and why each item matters.

All-purpose flour: Provides the essential structure for the dough—go for unbleached if you want even more tender buns.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness wakes up the yeast and seasons the dough.
Instant yeast: The secret to a lofty, pillowy rise—make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt: Just enough to balance the sweet flavors and round out the dough.
Warm milk: Adds richness and softness; make sure it’s warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
Large egg: Enriches the dough, improving both flavor and texture.
Unsalted butter (softened): Lends a silky tenderness and buttery taste that makes these buns so irresistible.
Nutella: The star! Its chocolate-hazelnut creaminess brings each layer to life—use a generous swirl for the most flavor.
Egg yolk mixed with milk (for egg wash): This gives your buns that shimmering, golden bakery-style finish.
Powdered sugar (optional): A soft snow-like dusting over the top makes for an ultra-pretty final touch.

How to Make Braided Nutella Buns

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start the adventure by combining flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add the warm milk, one large egg, and softened butter, then mix until a shaggy dough forms. This is your base, and it should come together easily. Knead for about 8–10 minutes either by hand or with a dough hook—you’re looking for a smooth, elastic dough that can hold its shape. Don’t rush the kneading; this is what gives Braided Nutella Buns their fluffy, tender texture.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, until it has doubled in size. Watching dough rise is always a small thrill—you’ll see all the tiny bubbles and feel the anticipation build as the yeast works its magic.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

Gently punch down the dough to release excess air, then divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten each into an 8×4-inch rectangle. Now comes the best part: spreading a generous but thin layer of Nutella over the surface, leaving a small border so it doesn’t spill out. Roll each rectangle up tightly from the long side into a log.

Step 4: Braid and Coil

Slice each log in half lengthwise with a sharp knife to reveal the beautiful layers of swirl. Place the halves cut-side up, gently twist them together, then coil each twist into a bun shape. This step makes your Braided Nutella Buns look like they came straight out of an artisan bakery, and the swirled Nutella peeking through is always exciting!

Step 5: Second Rise and Baking

Arrange the shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 20–30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Just before baking, brush each bun lightly with the egg yolk-milk wash for that luxurious shine. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until gloriously golden and fragrant. If you’d like, dust the cooled buns with powdered sugar for extra prettiness.

How to Serve Braided Nutella Buns

Garnishes

Right before serving, a delicate dusting of powdered sugar creates an enchanting snow-kissed look. For even more decadence, try sprinkling some finely chopped toasted hazelnuts over the top, or drizzle with a little melted chocolate for a special touch. These finishing details make Braided Nutella Buns truly irresistible at any brunch or dessert table.

Side Dishes

These buns are so decadent they can stand alone, but they’re extra delicious paired with fresh seasonal fruit, a simple yogurt parfait, or a cold glass of milk. If you’re serving them for brunch, they also work beautifully with coffee, tea, or a just-squeezed orange juice for a complete, cheerful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the warm Braided Nutella Buns in a basket lined with a pretty napkin for a homey, inviting touch, or stack them on a tiered cake stand for maximum visual impact. For parties, separate the buns and wrap each in parchment with a ribbon for charming grab-and-go treats. These beautiful buns always steal the show, no matter how you serve them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Braided Nutella Buns (a rare joy!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Line the container with a paper towel to help absorb moisture and prevent the buns from becoming soggy. Enjoying them fresh is always best, but they’ll still taste dreamy the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, let your buns cool completely before wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep wonderfully for up to 2 months. When ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or gently reheat directly from the freezer for a comforting treat any time.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked softness, warm the Braided Nutella Buns in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or microwave them in 10-second bursts until soft. This brings out the melty Nutella magic all over again, making breakfast or snacktime truly special.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread, go for it. Just make sure it’s at a spreadable consistency so it layers easily without tearing the dough.

Do I need a stand mixer to knead the dough?

Not at all. While a stand mixer makes quick work of kneading, you can easily knead the dough by hand. It takes a bit of muscle and about 8–10 minutes, but the result is just as lovely and rewarding.

Can these be made ahead for brunch or parties?

Yes! You can shape the Braided Nutella Buns the night before, cover them well, and refrigerate. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and finish their last rise before baking. This way, you can serve them fresh from the oven at just the right moment.

How can I keep the Nutella from leaking out during baking?

Try leaving a border when you spread the Nutella and sealing the dough well before slicing and braiding. If some filling leaks, don’t worry—it only adds to the aroma and gives those caramelized edges everyone loves!

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. You can double all the ingredients if you need more buns; just be sure to divide the dough evenly and give your buns enough space on the baking sheet to rise and bake beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special joy in baking something as gorgeous and delicious as these Braided Nutella Buns. I hope you’ll treat yourself and your favorite people to a batch soon—you might just discover your new go-to breakfast or dessert. Enjoy every sweet, swirled, chocolatey bite!

Braided Nutella Buns Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 14 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes rising)
Yield: 8 buns 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Braided Nutella Buns are a delightful treat that combines the richness of Nutella with soft, fluffy dough, creating a perfect balance of chocolate-hazelnut flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack, these braided buns are sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm milk
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Filling and Topping:

3/4 cup Nutella
1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, egg, and softened butter. Mix and knead until smooth. Let rise for 1 hour.
Shape the Buns: Divide dough, roll each portion, spread Nutella, roll up, slice, twist, and coil into bun shapes. Let rise again.
Bake: Preheat oven, brush buns with egg wash, and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
Finish: Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar if desired.