We’ve all experienced that moment when a regular croissant just isn’t enough – when we crave something that combines buttery, flaky pastry with rich, chocolatey indulgence. That’s exactly where these irresistible Nutella croissants come in, transforming your ordinary breakfast into a bakery-worthy treat that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
These golden, pillowy pastries strike the perfect balance between France’s beloved croissant tradition and Italy’s famous hazelnut spread. We’re talking about layers of delicate, buttery dough wrapped around a generous swirl of creamy Nutella that melts into pure heaven with every bite.
Whether you’re planning a special weekend breakfast or want to impress guests with minimal effort, these homemade Nutella croissants deliver maximum impact. They’re surprisingly simple to make and fill your kitchen with an aroma that’s absolutely impossible to resist.
Ingredients
Creating these decadent Nutella croissants requires simple ingredients that come together to form layers of buttery pastry and rich chocolate filling. We’ve organized everything you need into three essential categories for easy preparation.
For the Croissant Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (for laminating)
For the Nutella Filling
- ½ cup Nutella hazelnut spread (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
For the Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
Creating perfect Nutella croissants requires exact tools that ensure professional results in your home kitchen. We recommend gathering all equipment before starting to streamline the baking process.
Essential baking tools form the foundation of our croissant making process. A rolling pin becomes indispensable for rolling out the puff pastry triangles to the proper thickness. Quality matters here since even pressure creates uniform layers that bake consistently.
Your oven preparation requires a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal. We always line our sheets before beginning assembly to avoid rushing during the filling process.
A sharp knife or pastry cutter allows precise triangle cuts from the puff pastry sheets. Clean cuts create neat edges that roll beautifully into the classic croissant shape.
The pastry brush serves dual purposes in our recipe. We use it to apply egg wash for that golden shine and to spread any additional glazing ingredients evenly across the surface.
Temperature control equipment ensures optimal results. Your oven should preheat to the 350°F to 400°F range depending on your exact recipe variation. An air fryer offers an alternative cooking method for those preferring this appliance.
| Equipment | Purpose | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Primary baking method | 350°F – 400°F |
| Air fryer | Alternative cooking method | Variable settings |
| Rolling pin | Pastry preparation | Room temperature |
| Pastry brush | Egg wash application | N/A |
Additional workspace tools enhance your efficiency. A clean work surface provides adequate space for rolling and shaping. Measuring spoons ensure accurate Nutella portioning for consistent filling in each croissant.
We recommend having all equipment at room temperature before beginning. Cold tools can shock the puff pastry and affect the final texture of your finished croissants.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfect Nutella croissants that rival those from your favorite bakery. Each stage requires attention to timing and temperature for optimal results.
Preparing the Dough
We begin by combining water, yeast, flour, sugar, and salt in a stand mixer bowl. Mix the ingredients until they form a cohesive dough. For those using store-bought puff pastry, ensure the sheets are thawed but remain cold before proceeding. The dough should feel smooth and slightly elastic when properly mixed.
First Rise
Shape the homemade dough into a neat rectangle and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill the wrapped dough in the refrigerator to develop flavor and structure. Store-bought puff pastry requires less preparation time as it comes pre-laminated. Allow the dough to reach the proper working temperature before moving to the next step.
Rolling and Shaping
Roll out the chilled dough or puff pastry into a large rectangular sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the sheet into triangles measuring approximately 5 inches at the wide end and 1 inch at the narrow end. Each triangle should be uniform in size to ensure even baking. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter for clean precise cuts.
Adding the Nutella Filling
Place about 1 tablespoon of Nutella on the wide end of each triangle. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Gently spread the Nutella toward the base of the triangle using the back of a spoon. Avoid overfilling as this can cause the croissants to burst open.
Shaping the Croissants
Start rolling each triangle from the wide end toward the narrow pointed end. Pull the pointed end slightly as you roll to create the classic croissant shape. Pinch the ends firmly to seal the filling inside especially when using homemade dough. The final shape should resemble a traditional crescent.
Second Rise
Arrange the shaped croissants on a parchment-lined baking sheet with adequate spacing between each piece. Let them rise at room temperature until they double in size which typically takes 1 to 2 hours for homemade dough. Puff pastry croissants may skip this extended rising period due to their pre-laminated structure.
Baking the Croissants
Brush each croissant with egg wash before baking for a golden glossy finish. For homemade croissants bake at 390°F for 10 minutes then reduce temperature to 370°F for an additional 15 minutes. Puff pastry versions require baking at 350°F to 400°F for approximately 20 minutes until golden brown. Cool the croissants slightly before serving and optionally drizzle with extra Nutella for added indulgence.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead transforms your Nutella croissant preparation into a stress-free experience. We recommend preparing these pastries up to 8 hours before baking for optimal results.
Refrigerator Storage Method
After rolling out your pastry and cutting it into triangles, spread the Nutella filling and roll each croissant into shape. Place the formed croissants on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours before baking.
This method allows the pastry to maintain its structure while the flavors meld together beautifully. The cold temperature keeps the butter layers intact, ensuring your croissants achieve that perfect flaky texture when baked.
Freezing for Extended Storage
For longer storage periods, we suggest freezing your prepared croissants. Place the rolled croissants on a baking sheet and freeze them for 20 minutes until they hold their shape. Transfer the frozen croissants to an airtight container or freezer bag.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 8 hours | 35-40°F |
| Freezer (initial) | 20 minutes | 0°F |
| Freezer (extended) | 8-12 hours | 0°F |
After the initial freezing period, allow the croissants to chill overnight for 8 to 12 hours before baking. This extended chilling period develops the pastry layers and enhances the overall texture.
Baking from Chilled State
Remove the croissants from the refrigerator 15 minutes before baking to prevent thermal shock. Apply the egg wash just before placing them in the preheated oven. Frozen croissants may require an additional 2-3 minutes of baking time to achieve the golden brown finish we desire.
Storage Tips
We understand that sometimes you’ll have leftover Nutella croissants or want to prepare them ahead of time. Proper storage ensures these delicate pastries maintain their flaky texture and rich chocolate flavor for days to come.
Room Temperature Storage
Fresh Nutella croissants stay at their best when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. We recommend consuming them within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and texture. Before placing them in storage, ensure the croissants have cooled completely to prevent condensation from making them soggy.
Refrigeration Method
For extended freshness, we suggest refrigerating your Nutella croissants in an airtight container. This storage method keeps them fresh for up to 5 days while maintaining their structural integrity. The cool temperature slows down any potential spoilage while preserving the delicate layers of the pastry.
Freezing for Long Term Storage
Freezing offers the longest storage solution for our Nutella croissants. We place them in a freezer-safe container where they maintain quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply defrost at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until completely thawed.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Container Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3-4 days | 68-72°F | Airtight container |
| Refrigeration | Up to 5 days | 35-40°F | Airtight container |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | 0°F or below | Freezer-safe container |
Preparation Storage
We can also prepare croissants ahead of time by rolling them with Nutella filling and refrigerating them unbaked for up to 8 hours. This method allows us to have fresh, warm croissants ready whenever we want them. Simply bake directly from the refrigerator when ready to serve, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Our freshly baked Nutella croissants deserve presentation that matches their delicious taste. We recommend dusting cooled croissants with powdered sugar to create an elegant, bakery-style appearance that highlights their golden exterior.
Enhance the Chocolate Experience
We love drizzling additional Nutella or melted chocolate over the warm croissants for extra indulgence. This technique creates beautiful visual appeal while intensifying the chocolate flavor profile that makes these pastries irresistible.
Fresh Fruit Pairings
Fresh fruits transform our Nutella croissants into a balanced breakfast or afternoon snack. We suggest pairing them with sliced bananas for natural sweetness, strawberries for tartness, or raspberries for a burst of flavor that complements the rich Nutella filling.
Perfect Beverage Combinations
The right beverage elevates the entire croissant experience. We find that cold milk provides a classic pairing that balances the sweetness, while hot coffee or tea creates an ideal brunch combination. These beverages help cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the overall enjoyment.
Temperature Serving Tips
We serve our Nutella croissants slightly warm to maximize the gooey Nutella texture inside. Room temperature croissants work beautifully for packed lunches or picnics, while reheating them in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes restores their fresh-baked appeal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even experienced bakers encounter challenges when making Nutella croissants. We’ve compiled answers to the most common problems you might face during preparation and baking.
Nutella Seeping Out During Baking
This frustrating issue occurs when Nutella escapes from the pastry during baking. We recommend leaving at least a 1/2-inch border around the edges of your dough when applying the Nutella filling. Spreading the chocolate hazelnut spread too close to the edges allows it to leak out as the croissants expand in the oven. Also, avoid overfilling each triangle with Nutella as excess filling will inevitably find its way out during the baking process.
Dough Sticks to Work Surface
Proper dough handling prevents this common obstacle. We suggest thawing puff pastry according to package instructions, typically 30 to 40 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator. Dough that sits too long at room temperature becomes sticky and difficult to work with. Always dust your work surface lightly with flour before rolling out the pastry to create a barrier between the dough and your countertop.
Nutella Too Runny for Easy Application
Room temperature Nutella can become too fluid for neat application. We solve this by chilling the Nutella slightly before use, which makes it more manageable and less likely to spread beyond your intended boundaries. Alternatively, pipe the Nutella onto the dough using a pastry bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut off for better control and cleaner results.
Pastry Lacks Desired Flakiness
Overhandling the dough destroys the delicate layers that create flaky pastry. We recommend handling the dough minimally and keeping all ingredients cold throughout the process. Warm butter melts into the dough instead of creating distinct layers, so maintain proper temperature control. Bake your croissants immediately after assembling to preserve the integrity of the laminated dough structure.
Croissants Burn Before Full Cooking
Oven temperature issues cause this problem more often than ingredient mistakes. We suggest reducing your oven temperature by 25°F if you notice excessive browning before the croissants finish baking. Position your baking sheet on the middle rack to ensure even heat distribution and prevent the tops from burning while the interiors remain undercooked.
| Issue | Primary Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Nutella seepage | Spread too close to edges | Leave 1/2-inch border |
| Sticky dough | Improper thawing/no flour | Follow thaw instructions, flour surface |
| Runny Nutella | Warm temperature | Chill before use or pipe application |
| Dense pastry | Overhandling/warm ingredients | Minimal handling, keep cold |
| Burnt tops | High temperature/wrong rack | Reduce 25°F, use middle rack |
Remember that successful troubleshooting requires attention to timing and temperature control throughout the entire process. We find that most issues stem from rushing through steps or neglecting proper ingredient temperatures.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you everything you need to create bakery-quality Nutella croissants right in your own kitchen. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the lamination technique these pastries are more achievable than you might think.
The beauty of homemade Nutella croissants lies in their versatility – whether you’re planning ahead for a special brunch or wanting fresh pastries for unexpected guests. With proper storage techniques and our troubleshooting tips you’ll avoid common pitfalls that can derail your baking success.
Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to working with croissant dough. Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t flawless – each attempt will improve your technique and bring you closer to those golden buttery layers we all crave.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nutella croissants?
Nutella croissants are a delicious twist on traditional croissants that combine flaky, buttery pastry with rich Nutella filling. They transform a regular breakfast into a luxurious treat perfect for special occasions or impressing guests. The combination creates an irresistible aroma and indulgent flavor that appeals to both croissant lovers and chocolate enthusiasts.
What ingredients do I need to make Nutella croissants?
You’ll need ingredients for three components: croissant dough (all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, active dry yeast, warm milk, melted butter, egg, cold unsalted butter), Nutella filling (Nutella, powdered sugar, heavy cream), and egg wash. The key is using quality ingredients and maintaining proper temperatures throughout the process.
What equipment is essential for making Nutella croissants?
Essential equipment includes a rolling pin, parchment-lined baking sheet, sharp knife or pastry cutter, and pastry brush. Temperature control is crucial for optimal results. Having the right tools ensures you can properly roll, shape, and bake the croissants to achieve the perfect flaky texture and golden finish.
How do I store leftover Nutella croissants?
Store fresh croissants at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. You can also prepare unbaked croissants with Nutella filling and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.
What are the best serving suggestions for Nutella croissants?
Dust cooled croissants with powdered sugar for elegance, or drizzle with additional Nutella or melted chocolate. Pair with fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, or raspberries to balance richness. Serve slightly warm with cold milk, hot coffee, or tea to maximize the gooey texture and overall enjoyment.
What should I do if Nutella seeps out during baking?
Leave a 1/2-inch border when applying Nutella filling to prevent seepage. Other common issues include sticky dough (properly thaw first), runny Nutella (chill before use), lack of flakiness (minimize dough handling), and burnt tops (adjust oven temperature). Timing and temperature control are key to success.
