The Christmas season brings a comforting chorus of flavors to the table, and this dessert pairing has a place of honor: Christmas puff pastry with a Nutella braid. Its appeal lies in the simplest of ideas — a light, flaky pastry crowned with creamy chocolate hazelnut goodness. The result is a dessert that feels both elegant and approachable, a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings and a sweet finish to festive meals.
The braid lends itself to countless variations. Walnuts or hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch, while slices of pear or apple provide a touch of fresh, fruit-forward brightness. The versatility makes it a reliable option for cooks who want something special without too much fuss.
The charm of this treat also comes from its presentation. The braided, intertwined shape draped with a glossy finish makes a stunning display on any holiday table. It’s traditionally sliced into portions and enjoyed with a hot beverage, whether that’s coffee, cocoa, or a tall glass of milk.
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There is a desire to refresh the classic recipe by crafting it in an air fryer. This method proves handy for turning a savory starter into a tempting dessert, expanding the ways this dish can be enjoyed. A popular Instagram account dedicated to air fryer recipes shares this approach, appealing to more than a large following with practical, quick results.
Ingredients for Christmas puff pastry and Nutella braid
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A sheet of puff pastry.
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Nutella or a cocoa-hazelnut spread.
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Beaten egg or milk for glaze.
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A generous spoonful of powdered sugar.
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Some water.
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Chopped almonds for garnish.
How to prepare Christmas puff pastry and Nutella braid?
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Roll out the puff pastry and spread a thick layer of Nutella in the center. Slice slanted lines along both exposed edges to create the braided look.
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Interweave the strips from opposite sides to form the braid, then brush with milk or beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
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Line the air fryer with parchment paper or use the paper that comes with the dough, and set the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes until the pastry turns golden. Flip carefully and cook the other side for 5–7 minutes at the same temperature.
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Meanwhile, chop almonds to sprinkle over the top for a decorative crunch.
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Remove the braid from the oven and prepare a glaze by whisking a large spoon of granulated sugar with a few drops of water. Stir in the chopped almonds and apply the glaze quickly with a silicone brush, as it sets fast and adds a glossy, appetizing finish.
The Puff Pastry and Nutella Christmas Braid offers a delightful option for sweetening any festive celebration. Its straightforward preparation and customizable nature make it suitable for cooks at all skill levels, delivering a result that satisfies both adults and children. This recipe can certainly become a staple in a modern holiday dessert repertoire.