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Nutella Tagliatelle Nests are a playful Italian-inspired dessert that transforms simple pasta into something magical. Buttery tagliatelle is twisted into whimsical nests and pan-fried until delicately crisp, then filled with creamy Nutella and crowned with roasted hazelnuts. It is a treat that brings out the kid in everyone and always surprises guests with its unique twist.
The first time I served these to my friends, I loved watching their curiosity turn to delight with every bite. The golden pasta nest with chocolate filling is always a conversation starter.
Ingredients
- Dried tagliatelle: about 200 grams for four nests Choose a quality Italian brand for best texture and flavor
- Unsalted butter: gives the nests their rich taste and helps crisp the edges Look for European-style butter if you can
- Granulated sugar: optional for extra sweetness Use superfine sugar for better dissolving
- Nutella or any creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread: It melts better at room temperature for easy spooning
- Roasted hazelnuts: add crunch and aroma Choose nuts that smell fresh and are golden not dark
- Powdered sugar: optional for dusting Adds a beautiful finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the tagliatelle Cook according to the package directions until al dente which should take about ten minutes Drain thoroughly and rinse quickly under cold water This stops the cooking and keeps the pasta firm
- Coat and Season:
- Toss the cooked tagliatelle in a bowl with one tablespoon of butter and the sugar if using Mix gently to coat each strand This step prevents the noodles from sticking to each other and gives a faint hint of butter sweetness
- Shape the Nests:
- On a baking tray lined with parchment paper divide the pasta into four portions Using a fork and spoon, gently twirl each portion into a loose nest with a hollow in the center for the Nutella Try to keep the nests tight enough to hold together but loose enough to stay airy
- Pan Fry for Crispness:
- Heat the remaining butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat When the butter is melted and just starting to foam, carefully slide each nest into the pan Cook for about two to three minutes on each side Let them get golden at the edges but not too dark Remove to a plate when the nests feel firm and crisp
- Fill and Top:
- While the nests are still warm, spoon two tablespoons of Nutella into the center of each nest The warmth will help the Nutella settle nicely Sprinkle generously with chopped roasted hazelnuts and dust with powdered sugar if desired
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What I enjoy most is swirling the nests by hand It is relaxing and a little creative The scent of toasted hazelnuts always reminds me of family gatherings with laughter and good food
Storage Tips
Store leftover nests unfilled in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day For longer keeping pop them in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet before filling To keep the Nutella fresh always fill just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of hazelnuts, try roasted almonds or pistachios Peanut butter can stand in for Nutella for a different twist Gluten-free tagliatelle works as long as you cook it just to al dente so it holds its shape
Serving Suggestions
Serve on individual dessert plates and let everyone dig in with a fork For extra decadence add a scoop of vanilla gelato or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate These also look beautiful on a shared platter for a festive brunch
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A Sweet Italian-Inspired Tradition
While Italians love their pasta in savory dishes creative cooks have long experimented with sweet pasta desserts These nests are a playful nod to Italy’s love of hazelnuts and chocolate and they combine fun presentation with classic comfort flavors
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh tagliatelle instead of dried?
Yes, fresh tagliatelle works well—just reduce cooking time slightly to ensure it's al dente and holds shape when twisted.
- → What can I substitute for Nutella?
Try chocolate-hazelnut spreads, melted chocolate, or even peanut butter for a different flavor profile in the nests.
- → How do I keep the nests from falling apart?
Mold the pasta tightly into nests and pan-fry gently until edges crisp up, which helps them maintain their structure for filling.
- → Can these nests be made ahead?
Yes. Shape and fry the nests in advance, then gently reheat before adding Nutella and toppings for the best texture.
- → Are there other topping suggestions?
Drizzle with melted chocolate, add berries, or serve with a scoop of vanilla gelato for extra indulgence and flair.