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Chocolate Hazelnut Twists

These delightful pastries combine rich Nutella and crunchy hazelnuts enveloped in soft, pillowy dough, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 36 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole milk Warm milk helps the yeast activate and gives the dough a tender texture.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Make sure your butter is soft for easy mixing.
  • 1 packet active dry yeast Fresh yeast is crucial for a good rise.
  • 4 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided This will sweeten the dough and help with yeast activation.
  • 2 large egg yolks, room temperature Egg yolks add richness; room temperature helps with incorporation.
  • 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt A little salt enhances flavors.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Use high-quality flour for the best results.
Filling Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup Nutella Feel free to warm up the Nutella slightly for easier spreading.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped hazelnuts Roasting them first brings out even more flavor.
  • confectioners' sugar for dusting This adds a lovely presentation touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the Milk and Butter: In a heat-safe dish, add milk and butter. Microwave for 1 minute or until melted, stirring to combine.
  2. Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk mixture, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it activate for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  3. Mix the Dough: With the mixer on medium speed, add egg yolks, remaining sugar, and salt. Gradually add flour and knead for 3-5 minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm environment for about an hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and spray a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the risen dough in two, rolling one half into a 14 x 10-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. Spread the Nutella: Heat Nutella for about 20 seconds until spreadable, then spread it over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top.
  3. Layer and Cut: Roll out the second half of the dough into another 14 x 10-inch rectangle and place over the filled dough. Cut into 12 strips, about 1 inch wide.
  4. Twist Into Shape: Twist each strip into a coil and roll into a cinnamon roll shape. Place each coiled twist into a muffin cup, upright.
  5. Brush and Bake: Mix egg whites with 1 tablespoon water and brush over the tops of the twists. Bake for 14-16 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Cool and Dust: Remove from muffin cups and cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving warm.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Can also refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.