If you are searching for a festive and delicious holiday treat that keeps your low carb lifestyle intact, this Nutella Star Bread: Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Holiday Treat Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine layers of tender almond flour dough intertwined with rich, sugar-free Nutella-style hazelnut spread, forming a star-shaped masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes. This bread is not only stunning to serve but also perfect for breakfast or dessert, offering a sweet indulgence without the carb overload. It’s a beautiful, keto-friendly delight that will bring joy to your holiday table with every buttery, cheesy bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the bread’s unique texture and flavor, from the creamy cheese that binds the dough to the luscious hazelnut spread that brings in the sweetness without any guilt.
- 2 cups almond flour: Provides the low carb base with a subtle nutty flavor and light texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchiness and moisture to the dough, giving it that tender, bread-like consistency.
- 3 oz cream cheese: Offers creaminess for a smooth dough and enhances richness.
- 2 eggs: Helps bind all the ingredients together and contributes to the bread’s structure.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a delicate sweetness and warmth that complements the hazelnut filling.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light rise so the bread isn’t too dense.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness naturally.
- 1/2 cup sugar-free Nutella-style hazelnut spread: The star ingredient that brings the luscious chocolate-hazelnut magic while keeping carbs in check.
How to Make Nutella Star Bread: Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Holiday Treat Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Cheeses
Begin by melting the shredded mozzarella and cream cheese together. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short bursts and stirring in between until perfectly smooth and combined. This warm cheese mixture is what makes the dough wonderfully elastic and soft, setting the stage for the star bread’s signature texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Once your cheese mixture is ready, add the almond flour, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything thoroughly until a soft, cohesive dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold together nicely, ready for shaping.
Step 3: Form and Roll the Dough Layers
Divide the dough into four equal-sized balls. Using parchment paper on both sides, roll each ball into a circular layer about 8 inches wide. This step is easier done with parchment as it prevents sticking and keeps the dough thin and even, essential for creating those intricate star layers.
Step 4: Assemble the Star Layers
Place the first circle on your baking sheet and spread a generous layer of the sugar-free Nutella-style hazelnut spread over it. Repeat with the next two layers, layering each with hazelnut spread, but leave the topmost dough circle plain. This layering is key for creating the beautiful star effect and the burst of flavor in every twist.
Step 5: Cut and Shape the Star
Using a sharp knife, cut the layered dough into 16 equal strips from the center outwards, but be careful to leave the center intact. Take two adjacent strips and twist them twice away from each other, then pinch the ends together to form a star point. Repeat this with every pair of strips all around to create the signature star design.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your beautifully shaped star bread into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the bread is done when it turns a lovely golden color and smells absolutely irresistible. Baking at the right temperature ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
How to Serve Nutella Star Bread: Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Holiday Treat Recipe
Garnishes
The simplicity of this Nutella Star Bread means it shines on its own, but you can sprinkle it with a dusting of powdered erythritol or crushed toasted hazelnuts for an extra festive touch. A light drizzle of sugar-free chocolate or a few fresh raspberries on the side will add color and a vibrant flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or a creamy chai latte, making it a perfect breakfast centerpiece. For a holiday brunch, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of keto-friendly vanilla ice cream for a satisfying dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap your baked Nutella Star Bread in parchment paper tied with a sprig of rosemary or a festive ribbon—it makes a gorgeous homemade gift that friends and family will adore. Alternatively, bake multiple smaller stars for individual servings that look fancy on any holiday table without extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. The cheese and almond flour base keeps it soft, but refrigeration may cause it to firm up.
Freezing
You can freeze this star bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to one month. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently to refresh its softness and gooey Nutella layers.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back the crisp golden edge while warming the chocolate filling until melty and heavenly once again.
FAQs
Can I use regular Nutella instead of sugar-free?
Regular Nutella will work but significantly increases the carb count, which may not fit a strict keto or low carb diet. The sugar-free version keeps this recipe diet-friendly while still delivering that rich hazelnut-chocolate flavor.
Is almond flour the only flour I can use for this recipe?
Almond flour is key to achieving the low carb, tender texture here. Using wheat or other flours will change the carb content and the bread’s consistency. For keto-friendly baking, almond flour is the best choice.
Can I add cinnamon or other spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice blends wonderfully with the hazelnut spread and enhances the holiday vibe of this Nutella Star Bread: Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Holiday Treat Recipe.
What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese on hand?
Mozzarella’s stretchiness is crucial for the dough’s structure. While you might experiment with other mild melting cheeses, mozzarella is preferred for the optimal texture and flavor.
How long does the bread stay fresh after baking?
Best enjoyed fresh the same day, the bread will keep well for up to 2 days at room temperature in an airtight container. Beyond that, texture may change but freezing is an excellent option for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about sharing a slice of warm, nutty, chocolatey star bread with loved ones during the holidays. This Nutella Star Bread: Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Holiday Treat Recipe brings together festive charm and guilt-free indulgence in one gorgeous package. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s become a favorite low carb centerpiece in my home and an unforgettable treat for anyone who loves rich flavor without the carbs.
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Nutella Star Bread: Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Holiday Treat Recipe
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Low Carb Nutella Star Bread is a stunning holiday treat made with almond flour dough and sugar-free hazelnut spread. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it features a keto-friendly almond flour and mozzarella dough layered and twisted into a beautiful star shape, making it both delicious and visually impressive for festive occasions.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 oz cream cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup sugar-free Nutella-style hazelnut spread
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the star bread.
- Melt Cheese: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the shredded mozzarella cheese together with the cream cheese until smooth and fully combined, creating the base for the dough.
- Make Dough: Add the almond flour, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the melted cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape Dough Layers: Divide the dough evenly into four balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle between two pieces of parchment paper, ensuring even thickness.
- Assemble Layers: Place one rolled dough circle onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread half of the sugar-free hazelnut spread evenly over this layer. Repeat with the second and third layers, spreading the hazelnut filling on each. Place the fourth dough circle on top without any spread.
- Create Star Shape: Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled dough into 16 even strips, starting from the center. Carefully twist pairs of adjacent strips away from each other to create points of the star, pinching the ends together to secure.
- Bake: Place the shaped star bread in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Best served warm to enjoy the melty texture and fresh flavors.
- For a different flavor twist, use cinnamon butter instead of the hazelnut spread.
- This bread makes a wonderful edible gift or centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
