There is something irresistibly delightful about warm, flaky pastries filled with gooey, rich chocolate. If you are craving a sweet treat that’s quick and fuss-free yet utterly decadent, this Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine buttery, golden croissants wrapped around creamy Nutella and melty chocolate chips, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a cozy indulgence that feels special but comes together in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple and accessible, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that beautiful golden finish. From the flaky crescent rolls to the luscious Nutella and melty chocolate chips, these few components work together to create a show-stopping treat.
- 12-ounce can Pillsbury flaky crescent rolls: The flaky base that bakes into golden, buttery croissants with crispy edges.
- 5 tbsp Nutella: Adds creamy, hazelnut-forward chocolate richness that melts beautifully.
- ¼ cup chocolate chips: For pockets of chocolate that stay melty and gooey inside the croissant.
- 1 egg: Used to make an egg wash that gives the croissants a glossy, golden crust.
- 1 tbsp water or milk: Mixed with the egg to create the perfect consistency for egg wash.
- Optional garnishes (melted chocolate chips, honey, powdered sugar): These add extra flair and sweetness after baking.
How to Make Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Start by separating the crescent rolls from the can and laying each triangle flat on your work surface. Spread a generous layer of Nutella on the dough, making sure to leave a little space around the edges to prevent spilling when you roll. Scatter chocolate chips near the larger end, since that’s where you’ll begin rolling – this ensures every bite has that perfect chocolate hit.
Step 2: Roll and Brush
Carefully roll each crescent from the larger end toward the pointed tip, encasing the Nutella and chocolate chips inside. Once rolled, whisk together your egg and water (or milk) to create an egg wash. Brush each croissant evenly with the wash — this will transform them into golden, glossy beauties once cooked.
Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, which gives it enough time to be ready but avoids overheating the croissants. Place the rolled croissants in a single layer in the air fryer basket – don’t overcrowd them to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 8 minutes, or until the croissants are puffed up and have that picture-perfect golden-brown color.
Step 4: Add Your Finishing Touches
After they come out hot and irresistible from the air fryer, it’s time to make them even more tempting. Drizzle with melted chocolate chips for a shiny, decadent look, or add a touch of honey to bring out the nuttiness of the Nutella. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add that delicate sweetness and make them look like they came from a fancy bakery.
How to Serve Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe
Garnishes
Simple powdered sugar dusted over the croissants immediately enhances their bakery appeal. For a richer experience, drizzle melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for crunch. A light brush of honey can deepen the flavor and add a subtle shine that makes these treats irresistible.
Side Dishes
These croissants pair perfectly with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate. For a more wholesome option, serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or creamy latte to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also turns this into a luscious dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the croissants on a decorative plate with small bowls of extra Nutella and chocolate chips for dipping. You can also stack them as a croissant tower for a fun party centerpiece. Wrapping each individually in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes for a charming gift or takeaway treat for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps preserve their flaky texture while keeping the filling soft and inviting. Avoid refrigeration as it may dry out the croissants.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolled croissants before cooking by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to one month. When ready, bake or air fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the croissants back into the air fryer at 320°F for 3 to 4 minutes to regain their crispiness and warmth. Alternatively, a quick heat in a conventional oven works well too. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the croissants soggy and diminish that coveted flakiness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade croissant dough instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely! Homemade croissant dough adds an extra layer of buttery flakiness and can elevate this Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe, though it will require more preparation time. The crescent rolls are a great shortcut when you want something quick and delicious.
What is the best way to ensure the chocolate chips don’t melt and leak out?
Placing the chocolate chips near the larger end of the crescent and rolling carefully helps keep them enclosed. Also, avoid overfilling the croissants to prevent any melting chocolate from escaping during air frying.
Can I substitute Nutella with another spread?
Yes! You can experiment with almond butter, peanut butter, or any chocolate hazelnut spread you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but the basic technique of this Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe remains the same.
Is it necessary to use an egg wash?
While not mandatory, the egg wash adds a beautiful golden sheen and enhances the croissants’ crispiness. If you prefer, you can skip it or use milk alone for a lighter glaze.
Can these croissants be made larger or smaller?
Definitely! Adjust the size of each crescent roll when separating to make bite-sized or extra-large croissants. Cooking time may need to be tweaked slightly depending on their size, so keep an eye on their golden-brown appearance.
Final Thoughts
If you want to treat yourself to a homemade pastry without spending hours in the kitchen, I highly recommend giving this Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe a try. It’s quick, simple, and yields glorious croissants bursting with luscious chocolate that will bring smiles to any occasion. Trust me; once you make these, you’ll find all kinds of reasons to whip up another batch.
Print
Air Fryer Nutella Croissants with Chocolate Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 6 croissants
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully flaky and irresistibly chocolatey, these Air Fryer Croissants are a quick and easy treat made with Pillsbury crescent rolls, Nutella, and chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent snack, they are air fried to golden perfection in just 8 minutes.
Ingredients
Croissants
- 12-ounce can Pillsbury flaky crescent rolls
- 5 tbsp Nutella
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water or milk (for egg wash)
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. Spread 5 tablespoons of Nutella evenly over each triangle, focusing on the larger end. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the Nutella at the larger end to add extra chocolate delight.
- Roll and brush: Starting at the larger end, carefully roll up each crescent into its classic croissant shape. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water or milk to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg wash over the surface of each rolled croissant for a lovely golden finish.
- Preheat and air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, place the croissants in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Air fry them for 8 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
- Optional finishing touches: For an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, drizzle the warm croissants with melted chocolate chips, and top with a light drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the egg wash is evenly brushed to achieve a shiny, golden crust.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the croissants in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- You can substitute Nutella for any chocolate-hazelnut spread or jam of your choice.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the air fryer for crispiness.
