Nutella Baklava: Indulge in This Heavenly Dessert!

Introduction to Nutella Baklava

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, finding a dessert that’s both impressive and easy to whip up can feel like a tall order. Well, let me introduce you to the incredible Nutella Baklava! This heavenly treat combines flaky layers of phyllo dough with the creamy deliciousness of Nutella and crunchy hazelnuts. It’s the perfect solution for busy days when you need to wow your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this indulgent dessert will have everyone asking for seconds—just be prepared to share!

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Baklava

You’re going to love Nutella Baklava because it’s a delightful mix of ease and taste. With minimal prep time, you can create a dessert that feels gourmet but doesn’t require culinary expertise. Each crispy bite bursts with rich Nutella and crunchy hazelnuts, making it utterly indulgent. Plus, it’s a conversation starter, guaranteed to impress guests or brighten up your family dinner. Who knew dessert could be this simple and satisfying?

Ingredients for Nutella Baklava

Let’s dive into the delectable components of Nutella Baklava! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating this sumptuous dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Phyllo Dough: The star of the show, this flaky pastry brings a delightful crunch and layers of texture. You can find it in the freezer section of your grocery store.
• Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to each layer, helping to create that golden, crispy finish. Unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of your treat.
• Nutella Hazelnut Spread: Ah, the glorious Nutella! This creamy treat combines hazelnut and cocoa, making each bite a chocolatey dream. Feel free to swap it with other nut butters if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Chopped Hazelnuts: These add a wonderful crunch and additional nutty flavor. You can substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
• Honey: The sweet nectar drizzled on top brings everything together. It adds a touch of natural sweetness, making each bite heavenly. Local honey can enhance the flavor even more!

For the exact quantities of each ingredient, you can check out the bottom of this article where the full recipe is available for printing.

How to Make Nutella Baklava

Making Nutella Baklava is a delightful experience! The steps may sound a bit involved, but trust me, it’s straightforward. Let’s dive into the process, step by step.

Preparing the Phyllo Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that the baklava cooks evenly and turns golden brown.

Next, lay out the thawed phyllo dough on a large work surface. Place your 9×13-inch baking dish in the center and trace around it. Use scissors to cut the dough to size. Discard the extra phyllo and cover the remaining sheets with a damp cloth. This keeps them nice and moist while you work!

Combining Nutella and Ingredients

Now, let’s melt some magic! In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. In another bowl, gently warm your Nutella until it’s pourable. This step makes spreading the creamy goodness a breeze!

Generously butter the bottom of the baking dish. It serves as the perfect base for those flaky layers!

Layering the Baklava

Begin layering! Place a sheet of phyllo in the buttered baking dish and brush it generously with melted butter. Repeat this process with six sheets of phyllo. Each one needs that buttery touch to create those iconic layers!

Once your first layer is ready, drizzle ½ cup of melted Nutella over the top, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts and drizzle with ¼ cup honey for that sweet touch. Doesn’t that sound delicious?

Next, add six more sheets of phyllo, repeating the butter-brushing process. Spread another ½ cup of Nutella, followed by another 1/3 cup hazelnuts and ¼ cup honey. Finally, top it off with the remaining phyllo sheets, ensuring each one is brushed with melted butter.

Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into 12 squares. Then cut each square diagonally, creating those beautiful triangle shapes. This makes serving super easy!

Baking and Finishing Touches

Brush the top of your cut baklava with any remaining melted butter, and sprinkle with the last of the chopped nuts. Pop it in the oven for about 30 minutes or until it’s golden brown and crisp. The aroma will fill your kitchen, driving everyone wild!

Once baked, remove it from the oven and immediately drizzle with the last ½ cup of honey. Let it sit for at least two hours. This is crucial for the flavors to meld and the baklava to set perfectly.

Before serving, melt the remaining Nutella and drizzle over the top. I find placing it in a small resealable bag works wonders for a neat drizzle!

Tips for Success

• Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
• Take your time when layering; each sheet needs that buttery love!
• Feel free to mix and match nuts based on your family’s preferences.
• Let the baklava cool completely; it makes cutting and serving much easier.
• Drizzle with Nutella just before serving for a fun presentation!

Equipment Needed

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal; you can use any similar sized oven-safe dish.
• Microwave-Safe Bowls: Useful for melting butter and Nutella; regular bowls will work too!
• Sharp Knife: Essential for cutting the baklava; kitchen scissors can also do the trick!
• Spatula: For spreading Nutella evenly; a butter knife is a good alternative.
• Damp Cloth: To cover phyllo dough; a kitchen towel works perfectly!

Variations of Nutella Baklava

• Nut-Free Option: Swap out Nutella for sunflower seed butter or coconut butter for a delightful, nut-free alternative.
• Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baklava before serving for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
• Fruit Infusion: Add layers of dried fruits like apricots or figs for a sweet twist that complements the hazelnuts.
• Spiced Delight: Sprinkle in spices like cinnamon or cardamom between the layers for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Maple Sweetener: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with Nutella.

Serving Suggestions for Nutella Baklava

• Serve warm for a cozy dessert experience that everyone will love.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa for a beautiful presentation.
• Complement with a cup of strong coffee or a fragrant herbal tea.
• Add fresh berries on the side for a burst of color and flavor.

FAQs about Nutella Baklava

Can I use store-bought Nutella Baklava?

Absolutely! While homemade is always delightful, store-bought Nutella Baklava can save you time. Just make sure to check the ingredients for quality and flavor!

How should I store leftover baklava?

Store your Nutella Baklava in an airtight container at room temperature. It can stay fresh for several days, but trust me, it won’t last long!

Can I freeze Nutella Baklava?

Yes, you can freeze baklava! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up slightly before serving.

What can I serve with Nutella Baklava?

Pair Nutella Baklava with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a steaming cup of coffee. A dollop of whipped cream would also make a lovely addition!

Can I customize the nut filling?

Definitely! While hazelnuts are traditional, you can experiment with walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. It’s all about making it your own!

Final Thoughts

Creating Nutella Baklava is not just about indulging in sweetness; it’s about crafting a moment of joy in your busy life. Each layer of flaky phyllo, nutty crunch, and creamy Nutella comes together to create a treat that feels special. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, this dessert bridges the gap between simplicity and luxury. I love watching my loved ones savor each bite, their smiles lighting up the room. So go ahead, embrace your inner pastry chef and let this delightful dessert be a centerpiece of your sweet moments!

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