There's something magical about the combination of soft, pillowy bread and rich, chocolate-hazelnut spread. This Nutella Swirl Bread transforms a basic enriched dough into an irresistible treat that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. The beautiful swirls don't just look impressive – they ensure you get the perfect amount of Nutella in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1 cup Nutella
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
Start by preparing your enriched dough. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Once your yeast mixture is foamy, add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to it. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 18x12 inches. Brush the surface with melted butter, then spread the Nutella evenly across the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise down the middle, creating two long pieces. Twist these pieces around each other, keeping the cut sides facing up to expose the Nutella swirls. Carefully transfer to a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Cover the loaf and let it rise again for about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once risen, bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Though it's tempting to dive right in, letting it cool ensures the perfect texture and makes it easier to slice.
Tips for Success
The key to achieving beautiful swirls is working with well-chilled Nutella. Consider popping it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before spreading – this makes it easier to control and prevents it from seeping into the dough too much.
Don't worry if your twist isn't perfect; each loaf develops its own unique pattern, making every bake special. The most important thing is ensuring all layers are properly sealed to keep the Nutella from leaking during baking.
This bread stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It also freezes beautifully – wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months.
Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, this Nutella Swirl Bread brings a touch of indulgence to any moment. The combination of tender bread and rich Nutella creates an irresistible treat that's sure to become a family favorite.
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