Ingredients and Their Purpose
Dough Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
Purpose: Forms the structure of the bread. All-purpose flour gives softness while still holding shape. - ¼ cup granulated sugar
Purpose: Adds mild sweetness and helps activate the yeast. - 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
Purpose: Makes the dough rise and creates a light, fluffy texture. - ½ teaspoon salt
Purpose: Balances sweetness and strengthens the dough structure. - ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
Purpose: Activates the yeast and adds softness. - ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Purpose: Adds richness and tenderness. - 1 large egg, room temperature
Purpose: Adds structure, softness, and color. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Purpose: Adds gentle sweetness and aroma.
Filling Ingredients
- ¾ to 1 cup Nutella, softened
Purpose: Creates the chocolate-hazelnut layers.
Nutella should be spreadable, not cold or stiff.
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Purpose: Creates a golden, shiny crust.
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Melted chocolate drizzle
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Clean work surface
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Clean kitchen towel
Section 4: Preparing the Yeast
In a small bowl:
- Pour in the warm milk.
- Add the sugar.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the top.
Stir gently and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
The mixture should become foamy.
If it does not foam, the yeast may be inactive and should be replaced.
Mixing the Dough
In a large bowl:
- Add the flour and salt.
- Pour in the yeast mixture.
- Add the melted butter.
- Add the egg and vanilla.
Mix with a spoon until a rough dough forms.
The dough should look slightly sticky but manageable.
Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead for 8 to 10 minutes:
- Push the dough away with your palm
- Fold it back over itself
- Turn and repeat
The dough is ready when:
- It feels smooth and elastic
- It springs back when pressed
- It is no longer sticky
First Rise
Form the dough into a ball.
Place it in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover with a clean towel.
Let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Rising is essential for soft texture.
Preparing the Nutella
While the dough rises:
- Make sure Nutella is soft and spreadable
- If needed, warm it slightly at room temperature
Do not melt it completely.
Dividing the Dough
Once risen:
- Gently punch down the dough.
- Divide it into 4 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
Let rest for 10 minutes.
This makes rolling easier.
Rolling the Dough Layers
Roll each dough ball into a circle about 10 inches in diameter.
Try to keep all circles the same size.
Place the first circle on parchment paper.
Layering with Nutella
Spread a thin, even layer of Nutella on the first circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
Place the second dough circle on top.
Spread Nutella again.
Repeat with the third circle and Nutella.
Place the fourth circle on top with no Nutella.
You should have:
- Dough
- Nutella
- Dough
- Nutella
- Dough
- Nutella
- Dough
Shaping the Star
Place a small glass in the center and gently press to mark the middle.
Using a sharp knife:
- Cut the dough into 4 sections.
- Cut each section into 2 sections.
- You now have 8 strips.
Take two neighboring strips:
- Twist one away from you
- Twist the other toward you
- Pinch the ends together
Repeat all around.
You will now have a star shape.
Second Rise
Cover the shaped bread loosely with a towel.
Let rest for 20 to 30 minutes.
This improves softness and final volume.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place rack in the center.
Egg Wash
Whisk the egg and milk together.
Gently brush over the entire bread.
This gives color and shine.
Baking the Bread
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
The bread is done when:
- Deep golden brown
- Firm on the outside
- Soft inside
If browning too fast, cover loosely with foil.
Cooling
Remove from oven.
Let cool for at least 15 minutes.
Nutella inside will be very hot.
Section 18: Final Touches
Optional:
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Add chopped nuts
- Drizzle with chocolate
Serving
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pull apart each section gently.
Perfect for sharing.
