Nutella Star Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that tastes as good as it looks, this Nutella star bread might just become your new favorite. It’s buttery, fluffy, and filled with that irresistible hazelnut-chocolate spread we all know and love. This star bread is surprisingly simple to make (promise!) and is bound to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Imagine pulling apart those beautiful layers, with the soft dough giving way to gooey Nutella – it’s truly an experience.

I remember the first time I made this bread, I was hosting a brunch for friends and wanted to serve something extra special. As I brought it out of the oven, golden and warm, my friends’ faces lit up. When they realized it was filled with Nutella, there was a chorus of happy sighs. Since then, this star bread has become my go-to for gatherings or just a cozy weekend treat. Let me show you how to make it, step-by-step, so you can share that same joy with your loved ones!

this RECIPE

A bit about star bread and its origins

Star bread is a decorative twist on traditional filled bread, with its roots in Eastern European baking techniques. This intricate design involves layering dough with a sweet filling, then slicing and twisting it into a beautiful star shape. It’s similar to other enriched breads, like brioche or babka, but the twisting process gives it a unique look and texture. While classic versions might use cinnamon sugar or jam, this Nutella version brings a decadent twist that’s sure to please. Over time, this bread has evolved to include fillings like Nutella, making it a perfect treat for modern sweet-tooths!

Let’s talk ingredients: Nutella, eggs, and more!

Every ingredient here plays a key role in creating a tender, flavorful bread. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps keep the bread soft. If you’re out of unsalted butter, salted will work – just reduce the added salt slightly.
• Milk: Provides moisture and tenderness. Whole milk gives the best texture, but 2% will do in a pinch. Just avoid skim milk, as it might make the bread too dry.
• All-purpose flour: It gives structure to the dough. You could try using bread flour for a chewier texture, but I find that regular all-purpose flour works beautifully here.
• Yeast: This recipe calls for instant or active dry yeast, which helps the dough rise and gives it that airy, pillowy texture. Make sure your yeast is fresh for best results!
• Sugar: A touch of sugar gives a slight sweetness to the dough, which complements the Nutella filling.
• Eggs: These add richness and help bind the dough together. They also give a lovely golden color to the bread.
• Nutella: The star of the show! Nutella’s creamy hazelnut flavor takes this bread to a whole new level. If you prefer, you could use another chocolate spread or even a homemade hazelnut spread.

Essential kitchen tools for Nutella star bread

You don’t need a ton of fancy equipment to make this bread, but a few key tools will make the process easier.

• Stand mixer: While you can knead the dough by hand, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment will make your life a lot easier and save some elbow grease!
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough layers evenly.
• Pizza tray or baking sheet: A 12-inch round tray is ideal to hold your star bread, but any large baking sheet will do.
• Ramekin or small bowl: This helps to mark the center and guide your cuts when creating the star shape.
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter: You’ll need this to make clean cuts for twisting the dough into that iconic star shape.

Step-by-step guide to making Nutella star bread

1. Prepare the dough

Start by melting the butter with one-third of the milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning, then add the remaining cold milk to cool down the mixture. In your stand mixer bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add in the milk mixture and one egg, stirring until it forms a shaggy dough.

With the dough hook attachment, knead on medium speed for about 6-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, expect it to take around 10 minutes. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.

2. Let the dough rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, rolling it around to coat it with oil. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. (If it’s a chilly day, try setting it in the oven with just the light on for a cozy environment.)

3. Assemble the layers

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles and divide it into four equal pieces. Roll out the first piece into a 12-inch circle and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm up the Nutella slightly in the microwave – about 15 seconds will make it easier to spread.

Spread ¼ cup of Nutella over the first layer, leaving a one-inch border around the edge. Repeat with the second and third layers of dough, each time spreading Nutella in between. The final (fourth) layer goes on top without any Nutella.

4. Create the star shape

Place a small ramekin or bowl in the center of the stacked dough. Using a sharp knife, make four cuts from the ramekin to the edge, dividing the dough into quarters. Then, cut each quarter in half, and each eighth in half again, giving you 16 strips.

To create the twists, take two strips and twist them away from each other twice, then press the ends together to seal. Repeat with all pairs of strips until you’ve formed a star.

5. Final rise and bake

Cover the assembled star bread lightly with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. While it’s resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Just before baking, brush the top with a beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden finish.

Bake the bread for 22 minutes, rotating halfway through, until it’s golden and sounds slightly hollow when tapped. Let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

Variations and fun twists to try

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different fillings:

• Cinnamon sugar: Instead of Nutella, try spreading each layer with softened butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Jam-filled: Strawberry or raspberry jam works wonderfully as a filling, giving a fruity, slightly tart contrast.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and skip the egg wash, brushing the top with almond milk instead.
• Savory twist: Swap out Nutella for pesto, shredded cheese, or even a mix of herbs and garlic for a savory version. It’s perfect for brunch or as a unique appetizer!

Serving and presentation ideas

To serve, place your Nutella star bread on a large platter and let everyone pull apart their own piece. It’s especially delicious when enjoyed warm, so if you’re serving it for a gathering, consider timing it so it comes out of the oven shortly before serving. Dust it generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. You can also sprinkle a few crushed hazelnuts on top if you want to highlight that hazelnut flavor.

Beverage pairings

Pair this Nutella star bread with drinks that highlight its chocolatey, nutty flavors:

• Latte or cappuccino: The creamy coffee notes pair perfectly with Nutella.
• Hot chocolate: For a double-chocolate indulgence, serve with a rich hot cocoa.
• Chai tea: The spices in chai complement the hazelnut-chocolate flavors beautifully.
• Milk (or almond milk): A classic pairing that keeps things simple and lets the bread shine.

Storing and reheating tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, pop it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to warm it through without drying it out.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe makes a large star bread, perfect for sharing. If you’d like a smaller version, you can halve the recipe and create a mini star – just reduce the baking time to around 15-18 minutes. For a crowd, consider making two separate star breads to ensure everyone gets a piece!

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before assembling.

Q: What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
A: No worries! Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

Q: How do I keep the Nutella from leaking out?
A: Try to leave a small border around the edges of each layer, which will help seal in the filling as it bakes.

Q: Can I use other spreads besides Nutella?
A: Absolutely! Try peanut butter, almond butter, or a chocolate spread of your choice.

Q: How do I make sure the star shape holds?
A: Press the twisted ends firmly together, and be gentle when moving the dough to avoid pulling it out of shape.

Enjoy baking (and eating) this delightful Nutella star bread! It’s a real treat, and with a bit of practice, it’ll become your go-to impressive dessert for any occasion. Happy baking!

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