Bündner Nussgipfel
A popular sweet pastry from the Graubünden (Grisons) region, characterized by its crescent shape and a rich, caramelized walnut filling encased in flaky puff pastry. It's a beloved treat for coffee breaks or as a dessert.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Puff pastry(store-bought or homemade)
- 200 g Walnuts(chopped)
- 150 g Brown sugar
- 50 g Butter(melted)
- 50 ml Heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Honey
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 large Egg(beaten, for egg wash)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
💡 Tip: If using homemade puff pastry, ensure it is well-chilled. - 2
In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, honey, and cinnamon. Mix well to form a thick paste.
💡 Tip: Ensure the walnuts are evenly coated with the caramel mixture. - 3
Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If using a block, roll it out into a large rectangle.
💡 Tip: Work quickly with puff pastry to keep it cold. - 4
Spread the walnut filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll up the puff pastry with the filling, like a Swiss roll. Pinch the seam to seal.
💡 Tip: Roll firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. - 6
Cut the roll into 12 equal slices, about 2-3 cm thick. Place each slice cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, gently pressing them down to flatten slightly into a crescent shape.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 7
Brush the tops of the Nussgipfel with the beaten egg wash.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 8
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and the filling is caramelized.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 9
Let the Bündner Nussgipfel cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They are best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a more intense walnut flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before chopping.
- ✓If the puff pastry becomes too soft while working, chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
- ✓The caramel filling can be very hot; allow the Nussgipfel to cool sufficiently before eating.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of ground cloves to the filling for extra spice.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling for an extra indulgence.
- Use almonds or a mix of nuts instead of walnuts.