The puff pastry braids with hazelnut cream are that smart dessert that can be prepared in a few minutes, perfect when you crave something super delicious without spending too much time.
Crunchy on the outside, with a heart of hazelnut cream, these sweet pastries are perfect for last-minute preparation, perhaps when guests arrive unexpectedly or simply to indulge yourself with something good.
Thanks to the use of ready-made puff pastry, you can create a dessert that looks like it came from a pastry shop, but in less than 20 minutes! Ideal for kids’ snack, to be served with a coffee or for a breakfast different from the usual, these braids will win over everyone, young and old.
Check out these easy and quick puff pastry recipes:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 8 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Simple Ingredients, Guaranteed Results
To prepare these delicious braids you’ll need just a few ingredients and zero effort.
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- to taste hazelnut spread
- 1 tablespoon butter (or milk)
- to taste sugar sprinkles
Steps to Prepare Puff Pastry Braids with Hazelnut Cream
Unroll the puff pastry and, if necessary, roll it out slightly with a rolling pin.
Spread half of the surface with a generous layer of hazelnut cream.
Fold the pastry over itself, covering the cream, and press lightly with your fingers to adhere.With a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, cut eight rectangles of the same size.
Make a lengthwise cut in the center of each rectangle and twist each strip gently to form a braid.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Brush each braid with melted butter or milk.
Sprinkle with sugar sprinkles or granulated sugar.
Bake in a preheated static oven at 356°F (180°C) for about 15-18 minutes, until golden.
How to Store Puff Pastry Braids
Store the braids in an airtight container for 2-3 days at room temperature. If you want to enjoy them warm, you can reheat them in the oven for 2-3 minutes. Refrigeration is not recommended, as they will lose their crunchiness.
Smart Tips & Delicious Variations
• Want a richer version? Add some chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chips inside before rolling.
• For a summer version, try with pistachio cream or apricot jam!
• Don’t have butter? Just use milk for brushing: the browning will still be perfect!
FAQ
Can I use round puff pastry?
Yes, but you’ll have a bit of waste. Alternatively, cut out a central rectangle and use the edges to make mini-braids.
Can I freeze the raw braids?
Yes! Freeze them before baking and bake them from frozen at 356°F (180°C), adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use homemade spread?
Absolutely yes! Just make sure it is thick enough not to leak during baking.
