If you are looking for a quick and indulgent treat that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, the Air Fryer Nutella & Chocolate Croissants Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These flaky, golden croissants packed with creamy Nutella and melty chocolate chips deliver a perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and chocolatey goodness. Air frying them ensures a crisp exterior with a soft, gooey center, making for an unforgettable snack or breakfast that feels like a special occasion every time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Air Fryer Nutella & Chocolate Croissants Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding that flaky texture, rich flavor, or golden color, making the preparation straightforward yet utterly satisfying.
- 12-ounce can Pillsbury flaky crescent rolls: These provide the buttery, flaky foundation that will puff up perfectly in your air fryer.
- 5 tbsp Nutella: Creamy and hazelnut-rich, this spreads easily and melts beautifully inside the croissant.
- ¼ cup chocolate chips: Adds that extra melty chocolate surprise with each bite.
- 1 egg: Used to make the egg wash that helps give the croissants that irresistible golden shine.
- 1 tbsp water or milk (for egg wash): Lightens the egg and helps it brush on smoothly and evenly.
- Optional garnishes (melted chocolate chips, honey, powdered sugar): These elevate presentation and add an extra layer of sweetness and flair.
How to Make Air Fryer Nutella & Chocolate Croissants Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Begin by gently separating the crescent rolls from the can and laying them flat on your workspace. This gives you the perfect canvas to work with. Spread a generous layer of Nutella right onto the dough, making sure every bite will deliver that luscious, hazelnut flavor. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the larger end to create a delightful chocolate explosion once baked.
Step 2: Roll and Brush
Starting at the larger end where the chocolate chips have been scattered, carefully roll each croissant up into its classic crescent shape. The rolling process seals in the Nutella and chocolate chips, locking all those flavors inside. Whisk together the egg and water (or milk) to create your egg wash, then brush it over each rolled croissant. This final touch will give your croissants their signature golden, glossy finish.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F to get that perfect cooking environment. Arrange the croissants in a single layer in the basket—don’t overcrowd them to ensure even cooking. Air fry for about 8 minutes, watching as they transform into golden, flaky pastries. The air fryer works wonders by crisping the exterior while keeping the inside meltingly soft.
Step 4: Add Optional Finishing Touches
After your croissants are cooked and still warm, you can take them to the next level by drizzling melted chocolate chips over the top, or adding a light drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar. These small additions make the croissants feel extra special and add a lovely sweetness and aesthetic appeal.
How to Serve Air Fryer Nutella & Chocolate Croissants Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar do more than look pretty—they enhance texture and sweetness. Honey adds a gentle floral note that pairs beautifully with hazelnut and chocolate flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these croissants with a fresh fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful balance. For a breakfast spread, they also shine alongside freshly brewed coffee or a creamy cappuccino.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these croissants on elegant plates with a small bowl of fresh berries or chocolate sauce for dipping. Stack them in a basket lined with a soft cloth for a cozy brunch setting. For an Instagram-worthy touch, sprinkle edible gold dust or colorful sprinkles on top to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any croissants left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh without losing that flaky crispness on the outside.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked, rolled croissants by placing them on a tray until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, air fry them directly from frozen with an extra minute or two added to the cooking time.
Reheating
To revive the croissants’ fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat them in the air fryer at 320°F for 3 to 4 minutes. This will crisp up the exterior again and warm everything through without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade croissant dough instead of store-bought crescent rolls?
Absolutely! While Pillsbury crescent rolls keep this recipe quick and easy, homemade dough will give a more authentic and buttery croissant texture. Just be sure to roll and shape them carefully before adding Nutella and chocolate chips.
Is it possible to make these croissants dairy-free?
Yes! You can opt for dairy-free crescent rolls and substitute Nutella with a dairy-free chocolate-hazelnut spread. Use a plant-based milk for the egg wash, or skip it altogether for a slightly different but still delicious finish.
How do I prevent the Nutella from leaking out during cooking?
The key is to spread Nutella evenly and not too close to the edges. Rolling from the larger end tightly but gently and sealing the edges with your fingers helps keep everything inside during air frying.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, baking in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes will work well. The texture will be similar, though the air fryer tends to create a crisper finish.
How many croissants does this recipe make and what size are they?
This recipe yields about six standard-sized croissants, perfect for sharing or enjoying multiple times. The Pillsbury crescent roll triangles naturally create nice-sized pastries that puff up beautifully when cooked.
Final Thoughts
Making the Air Fryer Nutella & Chocolate Croissants Recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of bakery magic into your home in under 15 minutes. The combination of flaky pastry, creamy Nutella, and melty chocolate chips is undeniably comforting and joyful. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing loved ones, these croissants are pure happiness wrapped in golden layers. So why wait? Grab your crescent rolls and air fryer, and let the sweet adventure begin!
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Air Fryer Nutella & Chocolate Croissants Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 6 croissants 1x
Description
These Air Fryer Croissants are a quick and delicious treat featuring flaky Pillsbury crescent rolls filled with rich Nutella and chocolate chips. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these croissants are air fried to golden perfection in just minutes, making them an easy dessert or snack option.
Ingredients
Crescent Rolls
- 12-ounce can Pillsbury flaky crescent rolls
Filling
- 5 tablespoons Nutella
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water or milk
Optional Garnishes
- Melted chocolate chips
- Honey
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Separate the crescent rolls and lay them flat on a clean surface to prepare for filling.
- Fill and Roll: Spread Nutella evenly on each crescent roll. Add chocolate chips to the larger end of the roll, then carefully roll them up starting from the larger end to the smaller tip.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water or milk to make the egg wash. Brush the outside of each rolled croissant with the egg wash to ensure a shiny, golden crust.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for cooking.
- Air Fry Croissants: Place the croissants in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Cook for 8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and flaky.
- Optional Garnish: Once cooked, drizzle melted chocolate chips, honey, or sprinkle powdered sugar over the croissants for added sweetness and presentation before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Use a silicone brush to apply the egg wash gently without tearing the dough.
- For a nuttier flavor, warm the Nutella slightly before spreading.
- These croissants are best served warm for the gooey chocolate filling experience.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts or other fillings as desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: French-American
