Nutella Swirl Ring*
Ingredients:
1/2 cup warm water
1 pkg active dry yeast
4 Tbsp granulated sugar, divided
1/2 tsp salt, divided
3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup Nutella, warmed slightly (see instructions)
2 Tbsp water (for brushing)
non-stick cooking spray
In a large bowl using an electric mixer, stir together 1/2 cup warm water, yeast, 2 Tbsp sugar and 1/4 tsp salt. Add 1 cup flour and the butter and mix on medium speed for 4 minutes. Add the remaining 2 cups flour and mix for an additional 2 minutes. Grease a large bowl with non-stick spray or butter and place the dough on it, turning it once. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand for 1 hour in a warm place until double in volume.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. When the dough has fully risen, punch it down and transfer to a floured surface. Roll the dough out to a 12-by-16-inch rectangle and spread evenly with the warmed Nutella, leaving a 1-inch band around the edge bare. Beginning at the log end, tightly roll up the dough like a newspaper, forming a 16-inch-long log. Brush the ends with a little water, and bring them together, pinching to form a ring. Transfer the ring to the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife sprayed with non-stick cooking spray or oil, slice the ring into 12 individual buns - being sure not to cut all the way through so that the buns are still connected and allowing 1 inch between each slice. Gently separate them, so they rest against one another like dominoes. Brush the ring with 2 Tbsp water and sprinkle with remaining 2 Tbsp sugar. Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
To warm Nutella: In the microwave, heat on high in a microwaveable bowl for 5 seconds. Or, for the stovetop, heat on low heat in a pot until mixture becomes creamy.
Servings: 12