Many families look for warm, comforting breakfast options to start their mornings, especially during the colder months. While pre-packaged frozen pastries are a convenient staple, creating a homemade version allows you to enjoy a fresh, preservative-free treat that tastes even better. This recipe for chocolate-hazelnut breakfast pastries uses a specialty crescent dough that offers a soft, golden texture—sturdier and less messy than traditional puff pastry, making it an excellent choice for children.
Essential Ingredients for Nutella Breakfast Strudels
To make these delicious morning treats from scratch, you will need the following pantry staples:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup water (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup milk (room temperature or slightly warmed to 110°F)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1/3 cup Nutella or preferred chocolate-hazelnut spread
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Homemade Toaster Pastries
The secret to these pastries is the homemade dough, which provides a satisfying bite without being overly flaky. Follow these steps for the best results:
Begin by preparing the dough. In a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yeast, water, milk, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for approximately five minutes until it becomes foamy, which indicates the yeast is active. Gradually incorporate the bread flour and salt, using a dough hook or a sturdy spoon to combine. Add the softened butter in small pieces, allowing the mixer to fully integrate them into the dough. Knead the mixture for about four minutes until smooth. Once finished, cover the bowl and place it in a warm, draft-free spot to rise for 40 minutes.
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a surface lightly dusted with flour. Gently press it down into a large rectangle, then use a rolling pin to flatten it evenly. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, divide the dough into 12 equal rectangles (this creates six bottom pieces and six top pieces). For the top pieces, use a knife to cut two small venting slits—about one inch long and half an inch apart—in the center of each. This allows steam to escape during baking.
Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of grease. Arrange the bottom rectangles on the tray and spread a generous layer of Nutella in the center, leaving a small margin around the edges. Place the vented rectangles on top and press the edges together firmly to seal the filling inside. You can use your fingers or the tines of a fork to create a decorative, secure border. Cover the pastries with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the strudels for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Once finished, transfer them to a wire rack to cool for several minutes before serving.
Tips for Customization and Storage
One of the best parts of making breakfast pastries at home is the ability to customize them to your family’s preferences. Here are a few ways to enhance the recipe:
- Flavor Variations: If you want to try something different, swap the Nutella for high-quality fruit preserves, jam, or even thick pie filling.
- Golden Finish: For a richer flavor and a shiny, professional look, brush the tops of the unbaked pastries with a small amount of melted butter.
- Added Sweetness: If your family prefers a sweeter treat, whisk together a simple cream cheese or powdered sugar glaze to drizzle over the warm pastries.
- Make-Ahead Instructions: These pastries can be served immediately, but they also freeze exceptionally well. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container in the freezer. You can reheat them in the oven or toaster whenever you need a quick, hot breakfast.
- Time-Saving Hacks: If you are in a rush, you can use high-quality store-bought crescent roll dough to skip the rising process, though the homemade dough offers a superior texture.
Why Homemade Breakfast Pastries are a Great Family Choice
Making your own breakfast pastries is a rewarding way to provide your family with a delicious, customized meal. By controlling the ingredients, you can ensure a high-quality treat that avoids the additives often found in processed versions. Beyond the flavor, the process of rolling dough and filling the pastries is a wonderful way to involve children in the kitchen, turning a simple breakfast into a shared activity. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or keep a stash in the freezer for busy school mornings, these homemade treats are sure to be a household favorite.
