Nutella Halva Babka Buns (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 3 3/4 - 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
02 - 1/3 cup sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
05 - 6 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
06 - 3/4 cup milk, warmed to 110-115 degrees F
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
09 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature

→ Filling

10 - 1 (13-oz.) jar Nutella
11 - 6 ounces pistachio halva, crumbled
12 - 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

→ Optional Sugar Glaze

13 - 1/2 cup sugar
14 - 1/2 cup water
15 - 2 tablespoons butter

# Instructions:

01 - In mixer bowl, whisk 1.5 cups flour, sugar, salt and yeast. Cut in room temperature butter until mixture is crumbly.
02 - Warm milk to 110-115°F. Add vanilla, milk and lemon zest to dry ingredients. Beat until evenly moistened.
03 - Add eggs, beat for 2 minutes. Gradually add remaining flour until firm dough forms. Knead on floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
04 - Place dough in greased bowl, turn to coat. Cover and let rise in warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
05 - Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll each into 10x5-inch rectangle. Spread with Nutella, sprinkle with halva and chocolate chips. Roll up, cut lengthwise, twist, and form into knots.
06 - Let shaped buns rise 30 minutes. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden. Brush with optional sugar glaze while hot.

# Notes:

01 - Can be served as dessert, breakfast, or tea snack
02 - Store in airtight container at room temperature
03 - Reheat individual buns in microwave for 15 seconds