What Are Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns?
Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns are soft, rich, bakery-style sweet buns made from buttery brioche dough and filled with a molten chocolate-hazelnut center. When you bite into one, the exterior feels light and fluffy, while the inside reveals a warm, gooey Nutella surprise. These buns sit perfectly between a classic French brioche and a modern chocolate-filled pastry, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even a cozy evening treat.
What truly sets Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns apart is texture. Brioche dough is enriched with eggs, butter, and milk, giving it a tender crumb and subtle sweetness. When paired with Nutella, the contrast between the pillowy bread and the creamy filling feels indulgent without being overwhelming. This balance is exactly why these buns are so popular in home bakeries and professional pastry shops alike.
Why Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns Are So Popular
There is something universally comforting about Nutella. Its smooth chocolate-hazelnut flavor brings nostalgia, warmth, and richness in every bite. When Nutella is wrapped inside homemade brioche dough, it turns into a bakery-level experience right in your own kitchen.
Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns are popular because they feel special yet familiar. They are impressive enough to serve guests but simple enough to enjoy on a quiet morning with coffee. They also freeze well, reheat beautifully, and adapt easily to creative variations, which makes them a favorite for home bakers who like reliable yet luxurious recipes.
The Origin of Brioche and Its Modern Twist with Nutella
Brioche originated in France and dates back several centuries. Traditionally, it was considered a celebratory bread due to its high butter and egg content, ingredients that were once considered luxurious. Brioche dough was often reserved for special occasions, holidays, and important gatherings.
Nutella, on the other hand, has Italian roots. Created in the mid-20th century, Nutella quickly became a global phenomenon thanks to its creamy texture and rich flavor. Combining classic French brioche with Italian Nutella is a modern fusion that represents how traditional baking evolves with contemporary tastes.
Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns reflect this evolution perfectly. They respect the technique of classic brioche while embracing modern flavors that appeal to today’s dessert lovers.
Ingredients with Quantity for Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns
Brioche Dough Ingredients
To achieve soft, rich Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns, precise measurements matter. Each ingredient plays a role in texture, flavor, and structure.
You will need 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast, which equals one standard packet. Warm milk is essential for activating the yeast, and you will use ¼ cup milk warmed to about 110°F or 43°C. Sugar adds mild sweetness and feeds the yeast, so 2 tablespoons sugar are enough. Eggs provide richness and structure, and you will need 3 large eggs at room temperature.
For the dry base, use 2½ cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt to balance sweetness. Butter is the heart of brioche dough, and ½ cup unsalted butter, softened and cubed, ensures a tender crumb and luxurious mouthfeel.
Filling and Finish Ingredients
The star of Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns is the filling. You will need between ½ and ¾ cup Nutella, depending on how generous you want the center to be. For a glossy golden finish, prepare an egg wash using 1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon milk. Powdered sugar is optional but adds a delicate bakery-style look when dusted on top after baking.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method for Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns
Preparing the Nutella Filling
Before starting the dough, it is important to prepare the Nutella filling. Scoop Nutella into one-tablespoon portions and place them onto a parchment-lined plate. Freeze these Nutella mounds for 30 to 45 minutes until firm. This step makes stuffing the buns easier and prevents the filling from leaking during shaping and baking.
Making the Brioche Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This foam indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work.
Beat in the eggs until fully incorporated. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a rough dough forms. At this stage, the dough will look slightly sticky and uneven, which is normal.
Begin kneading the dough for about 5 minutes. Once it starts to come together, add the butter a few cubes at a time. Continue kneading for another 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, glossy, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size. This first rise is crucial for developing flavor and achieving the soft texture associated with Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns.
Shaping the Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece slightly and place a frozen Nutella mound in the center.
Carefully pull the dough edges up and around the Nutella, pinching the seams tightly to seal. This step is extremely important to prevent leaking. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.
Second Rise for Maximum Softness
Cover the shaped buns loosely and allow them to rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, they will become puffy and light. This second rise ensures that Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns bake up soft and airy instead of dense.
Baking the Buns
Preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C. Brush each bun gently with the prepared egg wash to create a shiny, golden crust.
Bake the buns for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are deep golden brown. The internal temperature should reach around 190°F or 88°C for perfectly baked brioche. Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for a classic bakery finish.
Texture, Flavor, and Serving Experience
Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns are best enjoyed warm. The exterior is soft with a light golden crust, while the inside remains fluffy and tender. The Nutella center becomes silky and molten, creating a rich contrast with the delicate bread.
These buns pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. They work equally well as a breakfast pastry or a dessert centerpiece. The aroma alone fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Creative Variations of Nutella filled brioche
Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns are incredibly versatile. You can add orange zest to the dough for a chocolate-orange twist that feels bright and aromatic. For added texture, incorporate chopped toasted hazelnuts into the filling for a subtle crunch.
If you want a quicker option, these buns can also be baked in an air fryer at 330°F for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye, as air fryers cook faster than conventional ovens.
You can also experiment with portion sizes. Mini Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns work well for parties, while larger buns feel more indulgent for special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns
Can I make Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns ahead of time?
Yes, Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns can be prepared ahead. You can shape the buns and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. Bake them fresh the next day for best texture and flavor.
Why did my Nutella leak out during baking?
Leaking usually happens when the seams are not sealed tightly or when the Nutella is too soft during shaping. Freezing the Nutella portions and pinching the seams firmly helps prevent this issue.
Can I freeze Nutella filled brioche?
Yes, these buns freeze very well. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently to restore softness and melt the filling.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be used. You can mix it directly with the dry ingredients, but the dough may rise slightly faster.
How do I keep Nutella filled brioche soft?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheating briefly in the oven or microwave helps maintain softness.
Conclusion
Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns are the perfect combination of classic baking technique and modern indulgence. With their soft, buttery crumb and rich chocolate-hazelnut center, they deliver a bakery-quality experience that feels both comforting and luxurious. By following careful preparation, proper rising, and thoughtful shaping, you can create Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns that rival those from professional pastry shops. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, shared with loved ones, or customized with creative variations, this recipe offers a reliable and satisfying way to elevate your home baking while delivering flavor, texture, and pure enjoyment in every bite.
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Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes–1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
There is something universally comforting about Nutella. Its smooth chocolate-hazelnut flavor brings nostalgia, warmth, and richness in every bite. When Nutella is wrapped inside homemade brioche dough, it turns into a bakery-level experience right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Brioche Dough
2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
2 tbsp sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened and cubed
Filling & Finish
½–¾ cup Nutella
1 egg + 1 tbsp milk (egg wash)
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Nutella
Scoop Nutella into 1-tbsp mounds on a parchment-lined plate.
Freeze 30–45 minutes until firm.
This makes stuffing easier.
2. Make the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Beat in eggs.
Add flour and salt; mix until a rough dough forms.
Knead 5 minutes, then add butter a few cubes at a time.
Continue kneading 8–10 minutes until smooth, glossy, and elastic.
Cover and let rise 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
3. Shape the Buns
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces.
Flatten each piece, place a frozen Nutella mound in the center.
Pinch seams tightly and roll into smooth balls.
Place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.
4. Second Rise
Cover loosely and let rise 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
5. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush buns with egg wash.
Bake 15–18 minutes, until deep golden brown.
Cool slightly; dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
These Nutella Stuffed Brioche Buns are irresistibly soft and chocolatey, perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack. For extra decadence, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving. They also taste amazing slightly warmed, straight from the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1–1.5 hours for dough rising)
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French / Bakery
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: ~350 kcal
Keywords: Nutella brioche buns, stuffed brioche buns with Nutella, Nutella filled brioche, chocolate hazelnut brioche buns, Nutella stuffed bread buns
