Name: Nutella Star Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: ¼ cup water; ¾ cup whole milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 3¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 package instant yeast (or 2¼ teaspoons); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella); 1 egg yolk (beaten); Powdered sugar for dusting

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

Looking for something truly special to grace your holiday table? Imagine the aroma of warm bread wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the rich, nutty scent of chocolate hazelnut spread. Picture breaking into a golden, flaky layer of soft dough, revealing an enticing swirl of Nutella that’s both visually stunning and delicious. It’s a beautiful Nutella Star Bread, perfect for brunches or cozy winter gatherings.

Pin this for later!

This recipe not only looks like a showstopper, but it also carries that comforting, nostalgic feeling of baking with loved ones during the holidays. I remember the first time I surprised my family with this delightful treat; their awe and smiles were absolutely priceless. Trust me, your loved ones will feel the same joy as they savor your homemade creation. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring some magic to your kitchen with this Nutella Star Bread!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Nutella Star Bread
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Nutella Star Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just about two hours from start to finish, it’s perfect for an impressive breakfast without the fuss.
Irresistible Flavor: Soft, pillowy dough meets gooey, rich Nutella — it’s a match made in heaven!
Eye-Catching Appeal: Its star shape is not only unique but makes for a delightful centerpiece.
Flexible Serving: Great for any occasion — brunch, holiday gatherings, or a sweet snack!
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily substitute ingredients for gluten-free and vegan variations if needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

¼ cup water: To help activate the yeast for rising.
¾ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough; if you prefer dairy-free, almond or oat milk could work.
¼ cup unsalted butter: For a tender crumb; use margarine or coconut oil as a vegan option.
3¼ cups all-purpose flour: This is the base! Adjust up to 3½ cups if your dough feels too sticky.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough without overpowering.
1 package instant yeast (or 2¼ teaspoons): For a quick rise, ensuring a fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all flavors.
1 large egg: Binds the dough together; a flax egg is a great substitution for vegan bakers.
1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella): The star of the show! Feel free to use a store-brand alternative.
1 egg yolk (beaten): For brushing on top to get a beautiful golden finish.
Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a touch of sweetness and charm to your final presentation.

How to Make Nutella Star Bread

Heat and Combine: Start by heating the milk, water, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until the butter has melted and the temperature reaches 105° to 110° Fahrenheit. This is important, as it should be warm but not hot enough to kill the yeast. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together 3¼ cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. These dry ingredients will provide the structure for your Nutella Star Bread, and mixing them first ensures everything is evenly distributed.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the warm milk mixture and the large egg into the bowl with the flour mixture. Use a wooden spoon or a dough whisk to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy at this point; that’s completely normal!

Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes, or if using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, knead for 5 to 6 minutes. If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes soft, smooth, and slightly tacky but not wet. Shape the dough into a ball, which helps it rise evenly.

Let It Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it around to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until it doubles in size. Check occasionally and enjoy the fragrant, yeasty aroma that fills your kitchen.

Punch Down and Divide: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest on the counter for about 10 minutes. This will make rolling them out much easier.

Preheat and Prepare: While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. This ensures that your star bread bakes evenly and beautifully. Line a large baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Roll Out the First Layer: On a lightly floured surface, roll one of the dough balls into a 10″ to 12″ circle, about ⅛” thick. Carefully transfer this dough to your prepared baking sheet. Spread ⅓ cup of Nutella evenly over the surface, leaving a ½” to 1″ border all around to avoid any spillage while baking.

Layer the Dough: Roll out the second dough ball to the same size and place it atop the first layer. Spread another ⅓ cup of Nutella over this second layer, again leaving some space around the edges. Repeat the process with the third layer of dough and the last bit of Nutella, leaving the final layer unspread.

Cut and Twist: Place a round cutter or ramekin, around 2½” to 3″ wide, in the center of the dough stack. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 16 equal wedges from the outer edge to the center circle, stopping before you cut through. Remove the cutter and twist two adjacent strips away from each other 2 to 3 times, pinching the ends together to seal. Repeat this process until all eight points of your star are formed.

Brush and Bake: Brush the surface of your stunning creation with the beaten egg yolk for that gorgeous golden color. Bake your Nutella Star Bread in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until it’s deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should be around 190° Fahrenheit for a perfectly baked loaf.

Cool and Dust: Allow the bread to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This helps to set it up for slicing and makes it easier to dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your Nutella Star Bread warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Nutella Star Bread, keep it at room temperature wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to five days. For longer storage, it’s best to freeze the bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a preheated oven at 350° Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that reheating may slightly change the texture, but the warm, melty Nutella will bring it back to life!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid over-kneading the dough as it can make the bread tough; knead just enough until smooth.
Use room temperature eggs; it helps create a smoother dough.
If the dough doesn’t rise, check the yeast’s expiration date and ensure your liquids were warm, not hot.
For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla to the dough.
This recipe can be made ahead; just let it rise and shape it the evening before, then bake it in the morning.

A visually stunning and utterly delicious treat, your Nutella Star Bread will undoubtedly become a favorite. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a holiday gathering, it’s a wonderful way to share love and warmth with your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or decorations—each version will bring its own special touch. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy crafting this delightful showstopper!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different spread instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! You can substitute Nutella with any chocolate or nut spread you prefer, such as peanut butter or almond butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, and shape it. Cover it and place it in the fridge. In the morning, allow it to come to room temperature before baking. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat!

What if my dough isn’t rising?

If your dough isn’t rising, ensure that your yeast is active and that the milk and water weren’t too hot. Yeast needs warmth but can be killed by high temperatures. You may also try placing the dough in a warmer area or using a proofing box.

How can I make a vegan version of this bread?

For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

More Breakfast Recipes

👉 If you make my Nutella Star Bread recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.