If you're looking for a charming and delicious treat to make with minimal fuss, you're in the right place. The Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe brings together crisp, flaky layers and gooey chocolate-hazelnut spread in a visually stunning, easy-to-share pastry. It's perfect for holiday mornings, casual brunches, or cozy afternoons when you crave something sweet and special without a complicated process.
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Why This Recipe Works
What makes this Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe a winner is how effortlessly it transforms simple puff pastry and Nutella into a show-stopping baked good with flaky, buttery layers and melty centers. The technique highlights the natural qualities of puff pastry, enhanced by a luscious spread that bakes into silky ribbons inside the golden folds.
- Consistent Texture: Using thawed, ready-rolled puff pastry ensures even puff and crispiness every time, without the guesswork.
- Deep, Balanced Flavor: Nutella's rich, nutty chocolate melds beautifully with buttery pastry to hit every craving without overpowering.
- Simple Ingredients: Only a handful of staples come together here, which makes the recipe approachable for any skill level.
- Fast Prep, Big Payoff: You'll have these stunning snowflakes baked and ready in under 40 minutes - ideal for last-minute guests or a sweet weeknight surprise.
Ingredient Game Plan
Getting the basics right really elevates this Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe. I always choose good-quality puff pastry and a creamy, fresh jar of Nutella or your favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread. That silky texture and balanced sweetness make all the difference when melted inside the pastry layers.
- Ready-rolled Puff Pastry: Thaw it gently overnight or according to package instructions for pliability and to prevent cracking.
- Nutella (or spread): A smooth and fresh jar works best - if it's been sitting too long, stir it well to keep it evenly spreadable.
- Egg (for wash): Use a whole egg beaten for that perfect glossy, golden sheen that makes the snowflakes irresistible.
- Powdered Sugar: Just a light dusting adds the final snowflake effect and a touch of extra sweetness.
Quick Note: Exact measurements are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.
How to Cook Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe
Step 1 - Prep & Season
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper-this prevents sticking and helps the bottoms bake evenly. Unroll your thawed puff pastry sheets carefully; they should be pliable without cracking. Place one sheet flat on your baking tray and spread about 6 tablespoons of Nutella evenly over it, leaving a thin border around the edges, about 0.4 inch. This little gap helps keep the filling sealed and avoids leaks during baking.
Step 2 - Build Flavor
Next, lay the second puff pastry sheet carefully on top, aligning the edges with the base. Now, here's a fun step: place a small glass in the center of this layered square without pressing too hard-just enough to mark the center point. Using a very sharp knife, cut from the glass's edge outward to the sides of the pastry, dividing the pastry into 16 strips. This sunray pattern is the basis of your snowflake. Then, gently twist each strip two or three times to create the elegant swirling pattern. If you're feeling creative, you can pinch the ends of each twist together to shape them even more like snowflake arms.
Step 3 - Finish for Best Texture
Carefully remove the glass from the center, and then brush the entire surface of the pastry snowflake with the beaten egg wash. This step is key-it creates that lovely glossy, golden finish you want. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on the color; you're looking for puffed pastry that has expanded beautifully with rich, golden brown edges and layers. Don't rush pulling them out-letting them cool just a bit will help the layers set and make them easier to serve. Before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar to add that snowy flair.
Pro Moves I Swear By
From making these snowflakes several times, I've learned a few neat tricks to help your batch come out flawless every time. Don't skip chilling your pastry if it's too warm-it can get sticky and hard to work with. Twisting strips gently avoids tearing and keeps Nutella sealed inside, so no sticky messes. Also, investing in a sharp knife or pizza cutter makes those perfect cuts easier and quicker.
- Doneness Cue: Watch for full puffiness and a deep golden-brown color, especially on edges and tips.
- Temperature Trick: Room temperature egg wash spreads smoothly without clumping, for a shiny even finish.
- Make-Ahead Move: You can assemble the snowflakes up to placing the egg wash, then cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.
- Skip This Pitfall: Avoid overfilling with Nutella to prevent it oozing out and burning on the tray.
Serve It Up
Finishing Touches
A quick dusting of powdered sugar after baking isn't just for looks-it adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the slightly savory, buttery crust. I love to serve these snowflakes warm, when that Nutella is still soft and melty. If you want an extra hint of luxe, a drizzle of warm cream or a sprinkle of crushed toasted hazelnuts can be wonderful.
Great Pairings
Because these Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe treats are sweet and rich, I like pairing them with fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or a crisp apple salad. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a lovely contrast in texture and temperature. For drinks, a cup of hot coffee or a spiced chai latte really balances the chocolate notes.
Easy Plating Wins
Lay your snowflakes on a rustic wooden board or a bright white plate to make their golden edges pop. Group several together in little clusters for a festive feel, and toss in edible flowers or mint leaves for color. These little touches make a weekday breakfast feel like a special occasion without much extra effort.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten snowflakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep that crisp texture. If you don't have room temperature space, refrigeration is fine, but the pastry may soften slightly. I usually re-crisp leftovers before serving to bring back that flaky magic.
Freezer Notes
These snowflakes freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and they keep well for about a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a couple hours before warming gently in the oven for best results.
Reheating Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe Without Drying Out
When reheating, I recommend warming in an oven at about 325°F for 5-8 minutes. This method refreshes the crispiness without drying the Nutella inside. You can also use an air fryer at a similar temperature for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving unless you're in a hurry-microwaves often make the pastry soggy. If you must microwave, heat in short bursts and check frequently to avoid moisture buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry works wonderfully and can elevate the flavor even more, but it takes longer to prepare. For quick and reliable results, store-bought thawed sheets are perfect for this recipe.
You can swap Nutella for any smooth chocolate spread, almond butter with honey, or even fruit preserves. Just aim for a spreadable filling to keep the layers moist and flavorful.
Leaving a small border without filling around the edges and gently twisting the strips without breaking the pastry helps keep the filling sealed inside. Using puff pastry sheets that aren't too warm also avoids leaks.
You can, but you'll need gluten-free puff pastry, which is available at some specialty stores. Baking times might vary slightly, so watch for puff pastry doneness cues carefully.
Final Thoughts
I love how the Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe combines ease and wow factor in one simple dish. It's one of those recipes I keep in my back pocket for when guests show up unexpectedly or when I want to treat myself without fuss. The flaky highs and rich chocolate make it a universally loved snack or dessert that's satisfying yet approachable. I'm confident you'll enjoy making and sharing these just as much as I do.
PrintComplete Recipe
Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes Recipe
Delight in festive Nutella Puff Pastry Snowflakes, a simple and visually stunning treat featuring flaky puff pastry twisted with rich chocolate-hazelnut spread, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry (8.8 oz each), thawed if frozen
Filling
- 6 tablespoon Nutella or other chocolate-hazelnut spread
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare tray: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Arrange base pastry sheet: Unroll both sheets of thawed puff pastry. Place one sheet carefully on the prepared baking tray as the base layer.
- Spread filling: Evenly spread 6 tablespoons of Nutella over the pastry sheet, keeping a 0.4 inch border around the edges clear to seal properly.
- Cover with top pastry sheet: Place the second puff pastry sheet over the Nutella layer, aligning the edges precisely for a neat look and proper sealing.
- Mark and cut pastry strips: Place a small glass gently in the center of the pastry without pressing down. Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into 16 equal strips from the edge of the glass to the outer edges, creating sun ray-like segments.
- Twist strips to form snowflakes: Carefully twist each strip 2 to 3 times to create a visually appealing snowflake pattern. Optionally, pinch the ends of the strips together to enhance the snowflake shape.
- Apply egg wash: Remove the glass from the center and brush the entire surface of the pastry with the beaten egg to promote a beautiful golden finish when baked.
- Bake until golden: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 22 minutes, or until the puff pastry has risen and developed a richly golden brown color.
- Cool and dust: Allow the snowflakes to cool slightly before dusting with 1 tablespoon powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry sheets are fully thawed to prevent cracking during cutting and twisting.
- Use a very sharp knife to achieve clean, precise cuts for the snowflake pattern.
- The small glass used for marking should not press down; it acts as a guideline for the center cutting.
- For added flair, sprinkle some chopped nuts or colored sugar before baking for a festive touch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days; reheat briefly before serving.
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