1- First, mix the honey with warm water, sprinkle in the yeast, stir, and let it activate until it’s frothy this usually takes about 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial for getting those soft, fluffy layers we love in Nutella babka buns. Once ready, combine it with the flour, salt, egg, powdered milk, egg yolk, and citrus zests in a bowl.

2-Mixing and Kneading the Dough: Now, mix and knead the dough for 10 minutes until it starts to come together. Gradually add the cubed butter, making sure each piece is fully incorporated before adding more. Keep kneading for another 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This Nutella babka buns recipe really shines with proper kneading, as it develops the gluten for that ideal texture.

3- After kneading, form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it tightly and let it rise for about 4 hours until it’s doubled in size. For a helpful tip on dough rising, you might want to try this easy peach cobbler dump cake recipe on our site, which uses similar prep techniques for quick results.

4-Shaping and Baking: Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead it lightly, and form it into a log. Cut it into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Flatten one ball into a 5×8 inch rectangle, spread chocolate spread over it leaving the edges clear, then roll it lengthwise.

5- Cut the rolled dough lengthwise, leaving one end uncut.

6- Braid the two pieces, making sure the filling shows on top.

7- Stretch the braid to about 10 inches, join the ends to form a ring, tuck one end inside, and pinch at the bottom.

8- Place on a lined baking sheet and let rest for 30 minutes until puffed.

9- Bake at 350ºF (175ºC) for 20 minutes until golden brown.

10- Finally, dust with icing sugar and serve warm. Each step in this Nutella babka buns recipe ensures the chocolate swirled layers are perfectly visible and delicious.