I can still remember the day my grandma first introduced me to the incredible combination of flaky phyllo dough, rich Nutella, and crunchy nuts. It was a family gathering, and the aroma of freshly baked baklava filled the air, beckoning me to take a closer look. As I took that first bite, the flavors exploded in my mouth – the silky Nutella melting with the buttery pastry, the toasted nuts providing a satisfying crunch. From that moment on, Nutella Baklava became a cherished tradition in our household, a treat we’d eagerly await during the holidays or any special occasion.
Why This Nutella Baklava Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Nutella Baklava
What sets this Nutella Baklava recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key lies in the layering process, where we carefully arrange the delicate phyllo dough sheets with just the right amount of Nutella and chopped nuts in between. This creates a harmonious interplay of flaky, crisp pastry, rich chocolate-hazelnut spread, and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts or pistachios.
The secret to achieving that irresistible caramelized top is in the basting process. By brushing the layers with melted butter and drizzling honey over the top, we create a shiny, golden-brown crust that’s simply divine. And the best part? This recipe can be whipped up in just 50 minutes, making it an absolute breeze to prepare for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this masterpiece, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 16 sheets phyllo dough: The foundation of this baklava, the delicate phyllo layers provide the perfect crisp texture.
- 1 cup Nutella: This creamy, chocolatey spread is the star of the show, adding a decadent richness to each bite.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios: The toasted nuts lend a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the Nutella beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: The butter helps the phyllo dough achieve that irresistible golden-brown hue and flaky texture.
- 1/4 cup honey: Drizzled over the top, the honey caramelizes the baklava, creating a shiny, sticky glaze that ties all the flavors together.
Step-by-Step Nutella Baklava Instructions
Preparing Your Nutella Baklava
With a total time of just 50 minutes, this Nutella Baklava recipe is a breeze to prepare. You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, a sharp knife, a pastry brush, and a few simple kitchen tools to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Unroll the phyllo dough sheets and lay them out on a clean, dry surface. Keep the dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out as you work.
2- In a small saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Brush the bottom and sides of the baking dish with some of the melted butter.
3- Carefully place 4 sheets of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish, brushing each layer with the melted butter as you go.
4- Spread 1/2 cup of Nutella evenly over the phyllo dough, then sprinkle 1/2 cup of the chopped walnuts or pistachios over the top.
5- Repeat the process, layering 4 more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing with butter, and topping with the remaining Nutella and nuts.
6- Finally, place the last 4 sheets of phyllo dough on top, brushing each layer with butter. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of honey over the top of the baklava.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room temperature phyllo dough for the easiest handling and layering.
- Brush the phyllo dough with a generous amount of butter to ensure a crisp, flaky texture.
- Chop the nuts into bite-sized pieces for a consistent texture throughout the baklava.
- Bake the baklava until the top is a deep golden brown for maximum caramelization.
Serving and Storing Your Nutella Baklava
Perfect Pairings for Nutella Baklava
This Nutella Baklava is a true showstopper, serving 12 people generously. For the ultimate indulgence, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of the warm, gooey baklava with the cool, creamy accompaniments is simply divine.
To balance the rich flavors, a cup of strong coffee or a glass of chilled milk makes the perfect pairing. And for a special occasion, a sweet dessert wine or a shot of espresso can elevate the experience even further.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Nutella Baklava is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be made ahead of time and stored for later. To store, simply cover the baked baklava tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the baklava. Cut it into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen baklava will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw the baklava at room temperature or reheat it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Nutella Baklava
Creative Nutella Baklava Variations
While the classic Nutella Baklava is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this recipe. Try swapping the Nutella for a different nut butter, such as creamy peanut butter or almond butter, for a new flavor profile.
You can also experiment with seasonal ingredients, like sprinkling in a handful of chopped dried cherries or cranberries during the holiday season. For a touch of citrus, grate some orange zest over the top of the baklava before baking.
Making Nutella Baklava Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, Nutella Baklava can be easily adapted. To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the phyllo dough with gluten-free puff pastry or even shredded coconut for a unique twist.
Vegans can enjoy this treat by using a dairy-free butter substitute and swapping the honey for a plant-based syrup, such as maple or agave. To reduce the carb count, you can use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit in place of the honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts or pistachios?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and bake this Nutella Baklava recipe?
A: The total time for this recipe is 50 minutes – 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of baking time.
Q: Can I make Nutella Baklava ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! Nutella Baklava can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.
Q: How many servings does this Nutella Baklava recipe make?
A: This recipe is designed to serve 12 people generously. Adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly if you need to feed a larger or smaller crowd.
Q: What should I do if the phyllo dough tears while I’m assembling the baklava?
A: Don’t worry, a few torn sheets won’t ruin the final result. Simply patch them up as best you can and continue layering the baklava. The melted butter will help hold the dough together.
Nutella Baklava
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of flaky phyllo dough, creamy Nutella, and crunchy nuts in this decadent Nutella Baklava recipe. A sweet twist on the classic pastry that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
– 16 sheets phyllo dough
– 1 cup Nutella
– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and lay the sheets flat on a clean work surface. Keep the dough covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with some of the melted butter.
4. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat with 7 more sheets, brushing each with butter.
5. Spread half of the Nutella evenly over the phyllo layers. Sprinkle half of the chopped nuts on top.
6. Add another 8 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with butter.
7. Spread the remaining Nutella over the phyllo and top with the remaining chopped nuts.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from oven and immediately drizzle the honey over the top.
10. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality Nutella and fresh, crunchy nuts. You can also experiment with different nut varieties like pistachios or almonds. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Conclusion
Nutella Baklava is a truly irresistible treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. With its flaky layers, rich Nutella filling, and crunchy nuts, this recipe is a delightful indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply enjoying it as a weekend treat, I guarantee this Nutella Baklava will become a new family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!
