Nutella Baklava is a sweet, indulgent dessert that merges the flaky layers of traditional baklava with the rich, creamy flavors of Nutella and hazelnuts. This Mediterranean-inspired treat is baked to golden perfection and finished with a sweet honey syrup that adds a delightful sweetness to every bite. Perfect for any special occasion or as a satisfying end to a meal, this Nutella-filled baklava is sure to impress chocolate lovers and baklava enthusiasts alike.
Nutella Baklava is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the traditional layers of flaky phyllo dough with the creamy, nutty flavor of Nutella and chopped hazelnuts. This sweet treat takes the classic baklava to a new level of indulgence, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions or to satisfy a sweet tooth. The honey syrup drizzled over the warm baklava adds a sweet, sticky finish that perfectly complements the chocolate and hazelnut filling.
INGREDIENTS
- Phyllo dough: 1 (16 oz) package, thawed, for flaky layers.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup, melted, to add richness and help layers crisp.
- Nutella: 1½ cups, for a creamy, chocolate-hazelnut filling.
- Chopped hazelnuts: 1½ cups, adds crunch and nutty flavor.
- Honey: ¾ cup, sweetens and complements the Nutella.
- Water: ¼ cup, for the syrup.
- Sugar: ¼ cup, adds sweetness to the syrup.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for added flavor in the syrup.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Step 2:
- Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat until ten layers are formed.
- Step 3:
- Spread a layer of Nutella over the phyllo sheets, followed by half of the chopped hazelnuts.
- Step 4:
- Add another ten layers of phyllo, brushing each with melted butter.
- Step 5:
- Spread the remaining Nutella and hazelnuts over the layers.
- Step 6:
- Finish with ten more layers of buttered phyllo sheets.
- Step 7:
- Slice the baklava into desired shapes (squares or diamonds) before baking.
- Step 8:
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.
- Step 9:
- In a saucepan, combine honey, water, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 10:
- Pour the hot syrup over the freshly baked baklava and let it cool before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for a gooey experience.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Baklava can also be refrigerated for longer storage, but bring it to room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra crunchy topping, add some chopped hazelnuts on the final phyllo layer before baking.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely to help it absorb the syrup fully.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Nadia suggests adding a pinch of sea salt to the Nutella layer for a sweet-salty twist.
The Rich Flavors of Nutella Baklava
The combination of chocolate-hazelnut filling with the crispy, buttery phyllo layers makes Nutella Baklava a truly indulgent treat. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and flaky textures that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Why Phyllo Dough Makes the Best Baklava
Phyllo dough is known for its thin, flaky layers, which provide the perfect base for absorbing sweet syrup while remaining crispy. It’s an essential component of traditional baklava, offering both texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts with walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts for a different flavor.
Can I make baklava ahead of time?
Yes, baklava can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container until serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter and a dairy-free chocolate spread to make a vegan version.
Can I use store-bought syrup instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use store-bought syrup, but homemade syrup allows for better flavor control.
Summary
Nutella Baklava is a delightful twist on a classic Mediterranean dessert. This version features layers of crispy phyllo dough filled with creamy Nutella and crunchy hazelnuts, all topped with a sweet honey syrup. The rich, nutty flavors of the Nutella and hazelnuts are complemented by the sweetness of the syrup, creating a truly indulgent dessert experience. The preparation involves layering butter-brushed phyllo sheets, adding Nutella and hazelnuts in between, and finishing with a hot honey syrup once baked. It’s an ideal choice for special gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave a sweet, flaky treat. With its simple ingredients and impressive taste, Nutella Baklava is sure to be a hit among dessert lovers.