
This Nutella crescent roll recipe is the very definition of a sweet win with zero stress. Buttery layers of crescent dough wrap around rich chocolate hazelnut spread for a treat that looks impressive and delivers pure comfort. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a last-minute brunch need, these little pastries come through every time with warm flaky magic.
I first made these when surprise guests knocked on my door early Saturday. I needed something fast but still special. These rolls did not disappoint. They’ve now become a go-to every time my niece and nephew sleep over—they race to the kitchen when they smell them baking.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: Flaky and buttery it bakes up quickly with perfect texture. Keep it cold until ready to use
- Nutella or any chocolate hazelnut spread: This is the heart of the recipe. Softly warmed it spreads easily and bakes into melty goodness
- Optional toppings like chopped hazelnuts powdered sugar or melted chocolate: Each adds texture sweetness or visual wow. Choose your favorite or mix and match
- Parchment paper: An essential barrier to catch any escaping filling and keep cleanup easy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the dough to puff and brown evenly without scorching the filling
- Unroll and Separate the Dough:
- Carefully open the crescent roll tube and gently separate the dough triangles. Work quickly so the dough stays firm and easy to shape
- Prepare the Baking Surface:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and catches any Nutella that might escape during baking
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon about two teaspoons of Nutella onto the wide end of each triangle. Spread it gently with a spoon leaving a bit of dough uncovered at the edges
- Roll Them Up:
- Starting at the wide end roll each triangle toward the point. Curve them into crescents and place them back on the baking sheet spaced slightly apart
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the tray into the oven and bake for about twelve minutes. The crescents should be puffed and golden with little bits of melted filling peeking through
- Garnish and Serve:
- While still warm dust with powdered sugar drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle chopped hazelnuts. Or keep them plain and let that baked Nutella shine

My favorite version adds a swipe of peanut butter under the Nutella. One night I even tucked in banana slices for a late-night dessert and it was glorious. There’s something about chocolate and flaky pastry that turns any day around.
Creative Variations
Try a fruit-filled version with sliced strawberries or banana inside before rolling. Zest a bit of orange peel into the Nutella for a burst of brightness. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt after baking to hit that sweet and salty mark. Around the holidays I sometimes stir in crushed peppermint candies for a chocolate mint flavor that disappears fast.
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover crescent rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Microwave for about ten seconds to rewarm and bring back that bakery feel. Though they don’t need to be refrigerated they’re best enjoyed shortly after baking for optimal flakiness and flavor
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in cookie butter or peanut butter if you don’t have Nutella. Use a spoonful of jam or cream cheese for a fruity or tangy twist. Even savory fillings like soft cheese or pesto work if you skip the sweet toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm on a breakfast tray with fresh berries and coffee. Plate a few with ice cream and drizzle for an easy dessert. They work great on brunch boards next to yogurt bowls and fresh fruit

Cultural Notes
Crescent rolls are a shortcut nod to classic European pastry like pain au chocolat. Nutella itself has Italian roots and is beloved across cultures for its rich creamy blend of chocolate and hazelnuts. Combining the two captures that indulgent bakery feel with just a few pantry staples.
I’ve brought these rolls to morning meetings brunches and birthday breakfasts. They make people light up and always leave the tray empty. All it takes is two simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time. That’s the kind of recipe every home cook needs in their back pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use homemade chocolate hazelnut spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! Homemade chocolate hazelnut spread works perfectly and allows control over the ingredients. Ensure it's at a spreadable consistency.
- → What other fillings can I use instead of Nutella?
Try peanut butter, cookie butter, jam, cream cheese, or savory options like cheese. Add fruits like banana or strawberries for variety.
- → Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook them at 320°F for 5–6 minutes in the air fryer. Work in batches if needed due to size limitations.
- → How long do these stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in microwave or oven for best results.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time and bake later?
You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Store refrigerated and bake straight from cold with 1–2 extra minutes.