Easy Nutella Puff Pastry Pies: Quick, Flaky & Irresistibly Chocolatey
Discover the ultimate quick dessert or breakfast treat with these incredibly easy Nutella puff pastry pies. If you’re a fan of Nutella’s rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor, prepare to be delighted by these flaky, golden pastries. Requiring just a few staple ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish, they deliver warm, gooey perfection without any fuss, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels. Get ready to impress your guests or simply indulge yourself with these utterly delicious, homemade-tasting treats!
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About These Nutella Puff Pastry Pies
If your heart beats for Nutella, then get ready for a truly special treat! I am absolutely thrilled to share a recipe that combines the convenience of ready-made puff pastry with the decadent joy of Nutella: these incredibly easy Nutella puff pastry pies. They are designed to bring maximum flavor with minimal effort, making them a perfect addition to any home baker’s repertoire, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your culinary journey.
Imagine this: golden-brown, impossibly flaky puff pastry enveloping a warm, molten core of rich Nutella, perfectly complemented by a delightful crunch from toasted hazelnuts. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to your favorite European bakery, but from the comfort of your own kitchen.
My love affair with Nutella stretches back decades. There’s something undeniably magical about its creamy, chocolate-hazelnut goodness. Whenever I spot a Nutella-filled delight on a pastry shop menu, it’s an instant order. But for those times when a trip to the bakery isn’t an option, or when I simply crave a cozy baking session at home, these pies are my go-to. They are wonderfully versatile, fitting seamlessly into a lazy weekend breakfast, an elegant brunch spread, a comforting afternoon tea snack, or even a simple, satisfying dessert after dinner.
The real beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a lengthy ingredient list or complex techniques. It’s truly a “cheat recipe” that allows you to create impressive, delicious pastries in about 15 minutes of active prep time, with your oven doing the heavy lifting. This means more time enjoying your creations and less time stressing in the kitchen! Even if you consider yourself a novice baker, trust that these Nutella puff pastry pies will turn out beautifully every single time, giving you that satisfying sense of accomplishment with every bite.
Key Ingredients for Flaky Perfection
Creating these delightful Nutella puff pastry pies requires just a handful of quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Let’s delve into what you’ll need:
- Puff Pastry: This is the star of our flaky crust! You can absolutely use one sheet of high-quality store-bought puff pastry for convenience, or if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade puff pastry works wonderfully too. The most critical step with store-bought pastry is ensuring it’s properly thawed. This typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes at room temperature. A well-thawed sheet will unfold and roll out easily without cracking, guaranteeing those signature light and airy layers. We’ll dive into more thawing tips in the “Tips and Tricks” section below.
- Nutella: Oh, Nutella! This iconic chocolate-hazelnut spread is more than just an ingredient; it’s a flavor sensation. Its rich, creamy texture and distinct hazelnut notes are what make these pies utterly irresistible. While other chocolate spreads exist, nothing quite compares to the authentic taste of Nutella, which my deep-seated love for can attest to. Its consistent texture is also ideal for baking, as it melts beautifully without becoming too runny.
- Egg: A single large egg, lightly beaten, is essential for our egg wash. This magical liquid serves multiple purposes: it acts as a sealant for the pastry edges, preventing the delicious Nutella filling from oozing out during baking, and more importantly, it’s responsible for that gorgeous, deep golden-brown color and appealing sheen on the finished pies. Don’t skip this step if you want bakery-worthy results!
- Sugar: For that extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful sparkling finish, we use raw sugar or turbinado sugar. Sprinkled over the egg-washed tops of the pastries, it adds a subtle textural crunch and a glistening appearance that makes these pies even more enticing straight out of the oven. The larger crystals of raw sugar hold up well to baking, providing a lovely caramelized texture.
- Nuts: Roughly chopped hazelnuts are a fantastic addition, enhancing the hazelnut flavor of the Nutella and providing a wonderful textural contrast. Their toasted crunch inside the soft, flaky pastry elevates the entire experience. If you’re not a fan of nuts, or have an allergy, don’t worry – this ingredient can be easily adjusted or omitted, as detailed in our FAQ.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
While this recipe is incredibly simple, having the right tools can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the must-have items for preparing your Nutella puff pastry pies:
- Clean Work Surface: You’ll need a spacious and clean area for rolling out your puff pastry. A kitchen countertop, especially a cool surface like marble or quartz, is ideal as it helps keep the butter in the pastry firm, preventing it from becoming sticky and difficult to handle.
- Rolling Pin: A good quality rolling pin is crucial for evenly flattening your puff pastry. I personally prefer a marble rolling pin because its inherent coolness helps maintain the pastry’s temperature, ensuring those distinct layers remain intact. If you don’t have a marble one, any standard rolling pin will work perfectly fine.
- Silicone Brush: This handy tool is indispensable for applying the egg wash. A silicone brush allows for an even, thin coat of egg over the pastry, ensuring a consistent golden-brown finish and helping to seal the edges effectively without tearing the delicate dough.
- Half Sheet Baking Pan: A sturdy baking pan is necessary to hold your pastries as they bake. A half sheet pan is typically large enough to accommodate all six pies without overcrowding, allowing for proper air circulation and even baking.
- Silicone Mat or Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet is key for preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze. A silicone baking mat offers excellent non-stick properties and is reusable, while parchment paper is a convenient single-use option that also ensures your pastries lift off easily.
How to Make Nutella Puff Pastry Pies
Get ready to whip up these delicious Nutella puff pastry pies with these easy-to-follow steps. Precision and a little speed are key to achieving perfect, flaky results!
Prepare the Pastry Sheet
First, ensure your puff pastry sheet is completely thawed but still cold. This balance is crucial for a flaky outcome. Lightly sprinkle a clean countertop or any flat work surface with a small amount of flour. Carefully unroll the puff pastry sheet onto the floured surface. Using your rolling pin, gently roll the sheet out slightly, just enough to even it out and possibly enlarge it a tiny bit if needed. Next, using a sharp knife or a pastry wheel, cut the large sheet into 6 equal squares. For a standard size sheet, you might cut it in half lengthwise, then cut those two longer pieces into three squares each. This will be the base for your individual pies.
Add the Delicious Filling
Now for the best part – the Nutella! Take each pastry square and spread about 2 tablespoons of Nutella evenly over one half of the square. It’s important to leave a thin, clear border around the edges of the pastry. This border will be essential for sealing the pie later and preventing any delicious filling from escaping during baking. Once the Nutella is spread, sprinkle approximately 1/2 tablespoon of your roughly chopped hazelnuts over each dollop of Nutella. This adds a lovely crunch and intensifies the hazelnut flavor.
Fold, Seal, and Egg Wash
Before folding, gently brush the clear edges of each pastry square with your beaten egg wash. This acts as a ‘glue’ to help seal the pastry securely. Now, carefully fold the unfilled half of the pastry over the Nutella-covered half, aligning the edges to form a neat rectangle or square (depending on how you cut them). Use the tines of a fork to press and crimp the edges together firmly. This not only creates a beautiful decorative pattern but, more importantly, ensures a tight seal to keep that gooey Nutella inside. Once all pies are sealed, brush the tops of each folded pastry generously with the remaining egg wash. Finally, sprinkle a light coating of raw sugar over the egg-washed tops for a glistening, caramelized finish.
Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Carefully transfer your prepared Nutella puff pastry pies to the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced a few inches apart to allow for even puffing and browning. Before placing them in the oven, use a sharp knife to cut 2 to 3 small slits on the top of each pastry. This vital step allows steam to escape, preventing the pies from bursting and ensuring a perfectly puffed, flaky texture. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastries are beautifully golden brown and visibly puffed. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before serving warm. The filling will be hot, so handle with care!
Tips and Tricks for Success
Achieving perfectly flaky and delicious Nutella puff pastry pies is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips and tricks:
- Fully Thaw Puff Pastry (But Keep It Cool!): This is paramount! If your puff pastry isn’t fully thawed, it will crack when you try to unfold or roll it, ruining those beautiful layers. Remove it from its box and wrapping and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until it’s pliable enough to unfold easily without resistance. Avoid over-thawing, as warm puff pastry becomes sticky and harder to handle, and the butter layers can melt, resulting in less flaky pies. If you’re in a pinch, you can microwave it: wrap one sheet in a paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds, checking carefully to ensure it doesn’t get warm. The goal is pliable, not warm.
- Don’t Forget to Cut Slits on Top: This isn’t just for aesthetics! Before baking, be sure to cut 2-3 small slits on the top of each pastry. These slits act as vents, allowing steam to escape as the pastry bakes. Without them, the steam can build up inside, causing your pastries to puff up unevenly, leak filling, or even burst open dramatically in the oven. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in both appearance and structural integrity.
- Keep the Pastry Cool: Puff pastry is all about layers of butter and dough. To ensure those layers remain distinct and puff up beautifully, it’s crucial to keep the pastry as cool as possible while you’re working with it. This is especially important in warmer climates or if your kitchen runs warm. Work efficiently! Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start assembling. Using a cold work surface, like a marble or quartz countertop, can also help significantly. If the pastry starts to feel sticky or soft, pop it back into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up before continuing.
- Even Spreading is Key: When applying the Nutella, try to spread it as evenly as possible and always leave a clear border. An uneven spread might lead to one side being dry and the other bursting with filling. The border ensures you have enough surface area to create a strong seal, preventing leaks.
- Experiment with Toppings: While raw sugar adds a beautiful sparkle and crunch, feel free to get creative! A dusting of powdered sugar after baking, a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can add another dimension to your pies.
- Adjust Baking Time for Your Oven: Ovens can vary. Keep an eye on your pastries during the last few minutes of baking. They should be deeply golden brown and puffed up. If they’re browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil, but ensure they still get enough time to cook through.
Craving more chocolatey delights? Explore these fantastic recipes: Dark Chocolate Coffee Cookies | Chocolate Strawberry Brownies | Chocolate Tart with Hazelnut Crust
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I crimp the edges of the pastry for a perfect seal?
Achieving those beautifully crimped edges is simpler than it looks! After folding your pastry over the Nutella filling and brushing the edges with egg wash, simply take a dinner fork and press its tines firmly along the entire border of the folded pastry. This action will not only create a lovely decorative pattern but, more importantly, will create a strong seal that helps keep the luscious Nutella filling securely inside during baking. Ensure you press down enough to really meld the two pastry layers together.
Are chopped hazelnuts mandatory in this recipe?
Not at all! While I personally adore the added texture and intensified hazelnut flavor that chopped hazelnuts provide, they are entirely optional. If you prefer a smoother filling, have a nut allergy (and are using a nut-free spread), or simply don’t have hazelnuts on hand, you can absolutely omit them. The Nutella puff pastry pies will still be incredibly delicious and satisfying. You could even swap them for mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for a different kind of crunch!
How can I ensure my puff pastry turns out perfectly golden brown?
The secret to that irresistible golden-brown, lacquered finish is the egg wash! Brushing the tops of your pastries with a lightly beaten egg (our egg wash) before baking is crucial. The egg wash caramelizes as it bakes, giving the pastry a beautiful, deep golden color and a lovely sheen. If you skip this step, your puff pastry will still turn a light golden, but it won’t have that rich, shiny, bakery-quality appearance that makes these pies so appealing.
Can I use homemade puff pastry for these pies?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, whether you opt for the convenience of store-bought puff pastry or prefer to use your own homemade creation. Both options will yield delicious results. If you use homemade, just ensure it’s well-chilled and ready to be rolled out, following the same preparation steps as for the store-bought variety. The quality of your puff pastry, whether from scratch or a trusted brand, is what truly matters.
Is it possible to make this nut-free?
Yes, you can certainly adapt this recipe to be nut-free! The primary ingredients containing nuts are Nutella and the chopped hazelnuts. To make it nut-free, you would need to use a chocolate spread that is specifically labeled as nut-free (there are several brands available now). Additionally, simply omit the chopped hazelnuts entirely. You could replace them with chocolate sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an alternative texture and flavor without introducing nuts.
Can I prepare these Nutella pies in advance?
You can certainly do some prep work ahead of time! You can assemble the pies (prepare pastry, add filling, fold, seal, and even brush with egg wash and sugar) and then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the slits and bake as directed, possibly adding an extra minute or two to the baking time since they will be starting from a colder temperature. This makes them perfect for entertaining or a quick morning treat!
Need more inspiration for something sweet? Check out my desserts recipe page!
Serving Suggestions for Your Nutella Puff Pastry Pies
These versatile Nutella puff pastry pies are truly a treat for any time of day! They are ideal for a decadent breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert. I particularly enjoy them in the morning or early afternoon, always accompanied by a steaming mug of rich coffee. As a dedicated pastry lover, these homemade pies remind me of the exquisite treats I find in local bakeries, but with the added satisfaction of creating them myself.
For a complete breakfast or brunch spread, consider pairing these sweet pastries with your favorite savory dishes. Imagine a plate featuring fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and savory sausage alongside these flaky, chocolatey delights. The contrast of sweet and savory creates a perfectly balanced meal. If you’re looking for more creative breakfast inspiration, here are a few ideas to get you started:
- BLAT Eggs Benedict: This innovative dish piles together all the delicious elements of a classic BLAT sandwich (bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato) onto a traditional eggs Benedict, all topped off with a creamy, bright lemon hollandaise sauce. It’s a flavor explosion!
- If you appreciate perfectly poached eggs, you must try this Turkish Eggs Platter: A vibrant and flavorful dish served with fresh dill and crunchy, toasted slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into runny egg yolks.
- Cheesy Ham Avocado Egg in a Hole: A fun, quick, and satisfying way to kickstart your day, ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s comfort food at its best, reimagined for breakfast.
For dessert, elevate your Nutella pies by serving them à la mode with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a side of vibrant fresh berries. The slight tartness of raspberries or strawberries beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the Nutella, creating an exquisite flavor profile. Don’t forget, they’re also fantastic on their own as a simple, comforting indulgence!
How to Store and Freeze Your Pastries
While these Nutella puff pastry pies are absolutely at their best when served warm and fresh from the oven on the day they are made, you can certainly store them for later enjoyment. However, keep in mind that their signature flakiness will diminish slightly over time.
- Storing Baked Pies: If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain enjoyable for a couple of days. To best preserve their texture, avoid refrigeration if possible, as it can dry out the pastry.
- Reheating Baked Pies: To bring them back to life and restore some of that lovely warmth and slight crispness, reheat leftover pies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. A toaster oven also works wonderfully for this purpose, providing a nice crisp exterior. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the pastry soft and chewy.
- Freezing Baked Pies: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked and cooled Nutella puff pastry pies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag for up to 1-2 months. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven (around 350°F/175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot and slightly crisped.
- Freezing Unbaked Pies: For ultimate convenience, you can also freeze the assembled but unbaked pies! After folding, sealing, and adding the slits, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen pies on a prepared baking sheet, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. This is a fantastic option for having fresh, warm pastries on demand!
More Irresistible Nutella Recipes
If these Nutella puff pastry pies have awakened your inner chocolate-hazelnut enthusiast, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of delightful Nutella-infused recipes waiting to be explored. Here are some more of my favorite ways to enjoy this beloved spread:
- Easy One-Bowl Banana Nutella Muffins: These soft, fluffy muffins feature a generous Nutella swirl right in the center, making them an absolutely perfect and indulgent way to start your day. They’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear! Find the recipe here: One-Bowl Banana Nutella Muffins.
- Pumpkin Nutella Bread: For those who adore the flavors of fall, this pumpkin Nutella bread is a must-try. It combines the comforting warmth of pumpkin spice with the rich sweetness of Nutella, creating the ultimate autumn treat. Discover this seasonal favorite here: Pumpkin Nutella Bread with Nutella Swirl.
- Three-Ingredient Nutella Cake Bites: Yes, you read that right – only three ingredients! These incredibly simple and delicious Nutella cake bites are perfect when you need a quick, no-fuss dessert that still feels special. Learn how to make them here: Nutella Cake Bites.
- Explore More Puff Pastry Dessert Recipes: If you’ve fallen in love with the versatility and ease of puff pastry, don’t stop here! There are countless ways to transform this flaky dough into stunning desserts. Browse a collection of delicious and easy puff pastry dessert recipes for more inspiration.
Finally, if you take the plunge and make this Nutella puff pastry pies recipe, please do me a huge favor and be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment below! I absolutely love hearing about your experiences in the kitchen and seeing your delicious creations come to life. Your feedback and questions are incredibly valuable, and I make every effort to respond to each and every comment.
And hey, if you snap some photos of your beautiful pies, feel free to tag me on Instagram! It truly means the world to me to see these recipes being enjoyed in your homes. Happy baking!
Nutella Puff Pastry Pies
15 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
6
Equipment
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Marble Rolling Pin
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Silicone Baking Mats
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Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed (homemade or store bought)
- 3/4 cup Nutella
- 3 Tbsp roughly chopped hazelnuts
- 1 egg beaten
- 3 Tbsp raw sugar
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400˚F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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On a clean work surface that’s been lightly floured, lightly roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut the sheet in half lengthwise. Then cut horizontally to create 6 equal squares from the two halves.
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Spread 2 Tbsp Nutella on one half of each pastry square. Ensure you leave a thin border around the edges so you can properly seal the pastry later.
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Sprinkle 1/2 Tbsp of chopped hazelnuts over each dollop of Nutella on the pastry squares.
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Brush the edges of the entire square with the beaten egg wash to prepare for sealing.
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Fold the pastry over the Nutella half, aligning the edges to form a rectangle. Use a fork to firmly seal the edges all around.
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Brush the tops of the folded pastries generously with the remaining egg wash. Sprinkle with raw sugar for a beautiful, sparkling finish.
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Using a sharp knife, carefully cut three small slits on the top of each pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
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Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the pastries are beautifully golden brown and visibly puffed.
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Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on the baking pan before serving warm. The filling will be hot.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 49g |
Protein: 7g |
Fat: 30g |
Saturated Fat: 15g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 11g |
Trans Fat: 0.003g |
Cholesterol: 27mg |
Sodium: 128mg |
Potassium: 223mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 27g |
Vitamin A: 42IU |
Vitamin C: 0.3mg |
Calcium: 55mg |
Iron: 3mg
493
kcal
Baking
Dessert