Chocolate-Hazelnut Babka Buns: A Decadent Twist on Classic Swirls
Chocolate-Hazelnut Babka Buns are a sweet, indulgent treat perfect for afternoon tea or a weekend dessert. Soft, buttery dough swirled with rich chocolate and hazelnut filling creates layers of flavor and a visually stunning spiral that’s sure to impress.
Selected as a top pick by Taste of Home editors for 2026, these babka buns are trending among baking enthusiasts for their irresistible combination of chocolate, nuts, and tender bread. The best part? They’re easier to make at home than you might think.
What Makes Babka Buns Special
Babka is a traditional Eastern European bread, known for its sweet, rich dough and twisted spiral shape. Adding chocolate and hazelnut filling elevates the classic, producing gooey layers that melt in your mouth.
Grating your chocolate finely helps the filling distribute evenly and melt faster during baking. Using a rotary cheese grater is perfect for this step, producing fine strands that blend seamlessly into the dough.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely grated chocolate (use a rotary cheese grater)
- ½ cup hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
- 1 egg for brushing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit 5 minutes until foamy. Mix in sugar, salt, egg, and vanilla. Gradually add flour and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Incorporate softened butter gradually until fully combined.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread hazelnut spread evenly, then sprinkle finely grated chocolate on top. Using a hand crank grater ensures the chocolate melts evenly into the layers while baking.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Roll the dough tightly from one edge into a log. Cut into equal pieces and arrange in a greased baking pan. Let rise another 20–30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush buns with beaten egg and bake 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving to enjoy gooey chocolate and nut layers.
Tips for Perfect Babka Buns
- Grate chocolate finely to prevent clumping and ensure even melting.
- Use a cheese grater for smooth, fine chocolate strands.
- Allow dough to rise fully; it ensures soft, tender buns.
- Serve warm for the best gooey texture, or slightly toasted the next day.
Why These Buns Are a Must-Try
Chocolate-Hazelnut Babka Buns combine soft, fluffy bread with sweet, melty chocolate and nutty flavor — perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or any dessert craving. Fine chocolate shreds, easy prep, and a visually stunning swirl make these buns both delicious and impressive.
Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging yourself, these babka buns bring a touch of bakery-quality magic to your kitchen.
