|

Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of buttery, flaky croissants filled with luscious Nutella and melty chocolate, then this Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe is going to become your new weekend obsession. It’s ridiculously easy, quicker than baking in a traditional oven, and yields these irresistibly golden treats that fill your kitchen with the best chocolatey aroma. Trust me, it’s perfect for those mornings when you want to spoil yourself or impress guests without a fuss.

What I love most about this Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe is how effortlessly it transforms simple crescent rolls into something gourmet. Whether you’re making a last-minute breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, these croissants deliver that perfect balance of flaky, sweet, and chocolaty goodness. Plus, the air fryer keeps things tidy and fast, so you’re not stuck waiting or cleaning up a huge mess afterward.

🤎

Why This Recipe Works

  • Speedy Preparation: Using pre-made crescent rolls saves so much time without sacrificing that fresh-baked taste.
  • Perfect Flakiness: The air fryer crisps the croissants to a golden finish while keeping the inside soft and gooey.
  • Melty Chocolate Filling: Nutella paired with chocolate chips creates a luxurious dual-chocolate experience in every bite.
  • Minimal Cleanup: Air frying keeps your kitchen mess-free, and the quick cook time means less waiting and more savoring.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient here is about convenience and creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor. Using canned crescent rolls makes life easier, while Nutella and chocolate chips bring in the indulgence.

  • Crescent Rolls: The big and flaky kind gives you that iconic croissant texture without the labor-intensive dough-making.
  • Nutella: This spreads easily for a creamy, hazelnut-chocolate hit that melts beautifully inside.
  • Chocolate Chips: Added for little pockets of molten chocolate, making each bite a surprise.
  • Egg: Used to make an egg wash that gives the croissants a gorgeous golden color and a shiny finish.
  • Water or Milk: Helps thin the egg wash so it applies smoothly and promotes even browning.
  • Optional Garnishes (melted chocolate chips, honey, powdered sugar): These toppings take the presentation and flavor up a notch — but are totally optional if you want to keep it simple.
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

While I adore this classic version, I always encourage people to get playful with it. Feel free to switch up the fillings or toppings to suit your cravings or dietary needs — that’s part of the fun!

  • Nutella Alternatives: If you’re nut-free, try a chocolate-hazelnut spread made from seeds, or swap with peanut butter for a different twist I often enjoy.
  • Add Nuts: Sometimes, I sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or almonds inside before rolling for added texture and crunch.
  • Fruit Fillings: Adding a thin layer of raspberry jam along with the Nutella creates a delightful sweet-and-tart combo that guests rave about.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based crescent dough if available and swap the egg wash for almond milk brushed on — still comes out beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe

Step 1: Unroll and Prep the Crescents

First, carefully open your crescent roll package and separate the dough into triangles. Lay each one flat on your clean workspace so you have a nice surface to spread the Nutella. This keeps the filling even and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Spread Nutella and Add Chocolate Chips

Use about 2 teaspoons of Nutella and spread it across the entire top surface of each triangle. Don’t rush here—the key is a thin, even spread so the chocolate melds into the dough rather than overwhelming it. Then sprinkle about half a tablespoon of chocolate chips near the large end, where you’ll start rolling.

Step 3: Roll and Brush with Egg Wash

Now, begin rolling each croissant from the large end towards the tip, tucking in the chocolate as you go. This helps keep everything sealed inside. Whisk together one egg with a tablespoon of water or milk to create your egg wash, then brush it generously over the tops of the croissants to get that beautiful golden finish.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then place your croissants in a single layer, giving them room to spread a bit. Air fry at 360°F for 8 minutes—or until they’re puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye during the last minute to avoid over-browning.

Step 5: Add Optional Finishing Touches

After they come out of the air fryer, I like to brush mine with a bit of warm honey and drizzle melted chocolate chips on top, then dust with powdered sugar. It makes for a fancy finish without any extra fuss—plus, it adds a delightful sweetness and shine.

💡

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: I let my crescent dough and Nutella sit out a bit so spreading and rolling is easier and less likely to tear the dough.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Giving space between croissants helps them crisp evenly instead of steaming.
  • Check Early for Browning: Every air fryer heats a little differently; I start checking croissants at 7 minutes to avoid burning.
  • Seal Your Edges Well: Rolling tightly and pressing dough edges gently prevents any buttery chocolate from oozing and creating a mess.

How to Serve Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe

A close-up view of several croissants on a white marbled surface, with the front croissant broken in half showing multiple flaky, golden-brown layers filled and topped with creamy milk chocolate. The chocolate filling oozes between the light yellow-brown pastry layers and thick chocolate drizzles decorate the top, while a light dusting of white powdered sugar adds contrast. In the background, whole croissants are slightly blurred, showing their shiny, slightly crisp outer layers with a similar chocolate drizzle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually go simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a quick drizzle of warm honey or extra melted chocolate. It adds just enough sparkle and sweetness without overwhelming the croissant’s buttery flavor. Fresh berries on the side are also a lovely, fresh contrast.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot cocoa. For a brunch spread, I like serving these with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the rich chocolate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special breakfast, arrange croissants in a circle on a pretty platter and place a small bowl of whipped cream or Nutella dip in the center. It’s festive, interactive, and always a huge hit. I’ve even wrapped these croissants with a thin slice of fresh strawberries inside for a romantic Valentine’s twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay flaky and delicious, but if you’re worried about them getting stale, the fridge is another option—just be sure to reheat well.

Freezing

Freezing is a game-changer! I freeze unbaked, rolled croissants on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When I’m ready, I thaw them overnight and air fry fresh for breakfast. It keeps that flaky texture fresh without any mess.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop croissants back in the air fryer at 320°F for about 3-4 minutes. This warms them through, crisps the outside, and brings back that just-baked taste much better than the microwave.

FAQs

  1. Can I use homemade croissant dough for this Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe?

    Absolutely! Homemade dough will work wonderfully if you have the time and enjoy the process. Just be sure to roll it thin enough and adjust air frying time as dough thickness varies. The pre-made crescent rolls just speed things up and simplify the recipe.

  2. What kind of air fryer works best for this recipe?

    Most air fryers with a basket-style compartment work great. Just avoid overfilling and make sure air can circulate around croissants for even cooking. If your model has a tray instead, adjust placement to ensure they aren’t touching.

  3. How do I prevent chocolate from leaking out?

    Rolling tightly and sealing the edges well before air frying helps prevent leaks. You can also slightly chill the rolled croissants before cooking to firm the dough. Avoid overfilling with chocolate chips to keep the filling contained.

  4. Can I make these croissants vegan?

    Yes! Use vegan crescent rolls and replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or a thin coating of maple syrup for shine. There are many delicious dairy-free chocolate spreads that can substitute Nutella as well.

  5. What’s the best way to serve these fresh out of the air fryer?

    Serve them warm, ideally right out of the air fryer, with optional drizzles of melted chocolate or honey. Pairing with fresh fruit or a frothy latte makes it feel like a café-worthy treat.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe is one of those little kitchen miracles that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort — and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone craving a flaky, chocolatey delight without hours of baking. I hope you find as much joy in making (and eating!) these as I do. Next time you want a cozy treat or a quick way to wow a crowd, this recipe will be your go-to. Happy baking, friend!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Air Fryer Nutella Chocolate Croissants Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 21 reviews
  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: French

Description

Delicious and flaky croissants filled with Nutella and chocolate chips, perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a quick and easy treat.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Croissants

  • 1 12ounce can Pillsbury big and flaky crescent rolls
  • 5 tbsp Nutella (2 tsp per croissant)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (1/2 tbsp per croissant)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp water or 2% milk

Optional Garnishes

  • Melted chocolate chips
  • Honey
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare croissants: Separate the croissants and lay them flat on a clean surface.
  2. Spread Nutella: Spread about 2 teaspoons of Nutella evenly on the entire top of each croissant.
  3. Add chocolate chips: Place ½ tablespoon of chocolate chips on the large end of each croissant.
  4. Roll croissants: Starting at the large end, roll each croissant tightly to enclose the filling.
  5. Make egg wash: Whisk together the egg and water or milk until well combined.
  6. Brush egg wash: Brush the egg wash onto the uncooked croissants to help them brown and develop a shiny crust.
  7. Prepare air fryer: Spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and place croissants in a single layer, allowing space for spreading.
  8. Air fry: Cook the croissants in the air fryer at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
  9. Garnish and serve: Optionally, drizzle with warm honey, melted chocolate chips, and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Use a light hand when spreading Nutella to avoid overflow while rolling.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking.
  • Egg wash helps create a glossy, golden crust but can be omitted for a vegan alternative.
  • Optional garnishes enhance sweetness and presentation but are not necessary.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and taste as croissants may lose crispness when stored.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 croissant
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

You Might Also Like These Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star