Nutella Crescent Roll Recipes: From Basic to Brilliant!
Nutella crescent rolls are a quick, easy, and utterly irresistible treat. These flaky, chocolate-hazelnut delights require minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert, a cozy breakfast, or a sweet snack anytime of day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious pastries in under 30 minutes. This article will guide you through various Nutella crescent roll recipes, from the classic version to creative variations that will elevate your baking game. Get ready to experience pure bliss with every bite!
## The Classic Nutella Crescent Roll Recipe
This is the foundation upon which all other Nutella crescent roll variations are built. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to please.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/2 cup Nutella
* Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
**Equipment:**
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper (optional, but recommended for easy cleanup)
* Butter knife or small spatula
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. **Unroll the Dough:** Open the can of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it onto a clean surface. The dough will be pre-cut into triangles.
3. **Spread the Nutella:** Using a butter knife or small spatula, spread a generous layer of Nutella evenly over each triangle of dough. Don’t be shy with the Nutella – it’s the star of the show! Aim for about 1 tablespoon per triangle, adjusting based on your preference.
4. **Roll the Crescents:** Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough tightly towards the point. This will create the classic crescent shape.
5. **Arrange on Baking Sheet:** Place the rolled crescent rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, with the point tucked underneath to prevent them from unrolling during baking. Space them about an inch apart.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and slightly puffed up. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crescent rolls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely (or enjoy them warm!).
8. **Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional):** If desired, dust the cooled crescent rolls with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
**Tips for Perfect Classic Nutella Crescent Rolls:**
* **Use Cold Dough:** Cold dough is easier to work with and will result in flakier crescent rolls. If the dough is too warm, it will become sticky and difficult to roll.
* **Don’t Overfill:** While it’s tempting to load up on the Nutella, too much filling can cause the crescent rolls to leak during baking. Stick to a generous but manageable amount.
* **Tuck the Point:** Tucking the point of the triangle underneath the crescent roll will help prevent it from unrolling in the oven.
* **Bake Until Golden Brown:** Baking until the crescent rolls are golden brown will ensure that they are fully cooked and have a nice, flaky texture.
* **Enjoy Warm or Cooled:** Nutella crescent rolls are delicious both warm and cooled. If you’re serving them warm, be careful, as the Nutella filling can be very hot.
## Variations on the Classic: Elevating Your Nutella Crescent Rolls
Now that you’ve mastered the basic recipe, it’s time to get creative! Here are some fun and delicious variations on the classic Nutella crescent roll.
### 1. Nutella and Banana Crescent Rolls
Adding sliced bananas to the Nutella filling adds a natural sweetness and a creamy texture that complements the chocolate-hazelnut flavor perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/2 cup Nutella
* 1 ripe banana, thinly sliced
* Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-2 of the classic recipe.
2. Spread Nutella evenly over each triangle of dough.
3. Arrange thin slices of banana over the Nutella.
4. Optional: Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
5. Follow steps 4-8 of the classic recipe.
### 2. Nutella and Strawberry Crescent Rolls
The combination of Nutella and strawberries is a classic for a reason. The tartness of the strawberries cuts through the richness of the Nutella, creating a balanced and delightful flavor profile.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/2 cup Nutella
* 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
* Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-2 of the classic recipe.
2. Spread Nutella evenly over each triangle of dough.
3. Arrange thin slices of strawberries over the Nutella.
4. Follow steps 4-8 of the classic recipe.
### 3. Nutella and Raspberry Crescent Rolls
Similar to strawberries, raspberries offer a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of Nutella. The vibrant red color of the raspberries also adds a beautiful visual element to the crescent rolls.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/2 cup Nutella
* 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
* Optional: Almond slices
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-2 of the classic recipe.
2. Spread Nutella evenly over each triangle of dough.
3. Arrange fresh raspberries over the Nutella. You can gently press them into the Nutella to help them adhere.
4. Optional: Sprinkle with almond slices for added crunch and flavor.
5. Follow steps 4-8 of the classic recipe.
### 4. Nutella and Marshmallow Crescent Rolls
For a s’mores-inspired twist, try adding marshmallows to your Nutella crescent rolls. The marshmallows will melt and become gooey and delicious in the oven.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/2 cup Nutella
* 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
* Optional: Graham cracker crumbs
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-2 of the classic recipe.
2. Spread Nutella evenly over each triangle of dough.
3. Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the Nutella.
4. Optional: Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs for an authentic s’mores flavor.
5. Follow steps 4-8 of the classic recipe.
### 5. Nutella and Peanut Butter Crescent Rolls
If you’re a fan of the classic peanut butter and chocolate combination, you’ll love this variation. The creamy peanut butter adds a savory element that complements the sweetness of the Nutella.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/4 cup Nutella
* 1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
* Optional: Chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-2 of the classic recipe.
2. Spread Nutella evenly over each triangle of dough. Then spread the peanut butter over the Nutella.
3. Optional: Sprinkle with chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
4. Follow steps 4-8 of the classic recipe.
### 6. Nutella and Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
This variation adds a tangy and creamy element to the Nutella crescent rolls. The cream cheese complements the Nutella beautifully, creating a rich and decadent treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* 1/4 cup Nutella
* 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
* Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll crescent roll dough on a clean surface.
3. In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese and cinnamon until well combined. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each triangle of dough.
4. Spread Nutella over the cream cheese layer.
5. Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough tightly towards the point to form crescent shapes.
6. Arrange the crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, point side down.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
### 7. Nutella and Apple Crescent Rolls
This variation provides a comforting taste of fall with the addition of spiced apples. This is great served with some vanilla ice cream or on its own.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* ¼ cup Nutella
* 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well to coat the apples.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface.
4. Spread a thin layer of Nutella on each triangle of dough.
5. Sprinkle the spiced apple mixture evenly over the Nutella. Add walnuts or pecans here if you want.
6. Roll each triangle from the wide end to the point, forming crescent shapes.
7. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the apples are tender.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.
### 8. Mini Nutella Crescent Bites
These smaller, bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or when you want just a little something sweet. They are easy to make and perfect for the whole family.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* ¼ cup Nutella
* Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface.
3. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut each triangle into 2-3 smaller triangles.
4. Spread a small amount of Nutella on each mini triangle.
5. Roll up each triangle from the wide end to the point.
6. Arrange the mini crescent rolls on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While still warm, sprinkle with sprinkles or chopped nuts if desired. Serve warm.
### 9. Nutella Swirl Crescent Roll Loaf
Transform your crescent rolls into a beautiful and impressive loaf, perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s easy to customize and perfect to share.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
* ½ cup Nutella, softened
* Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
2. Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Pinch the seams together to form one large rectangle.
3. Spread softened Nutella evenly over the entire dough rectangle.
4. Roll the dough up tightly from one of the long ends to form a log.
5. Use a sharp knife to slice the log lengthwise, keeping one end intact.
6. Twist the two strands of dough together, cut-side up, and place the twisted dough into the greased loaf pan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before removing from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
## Tips and Tricks for Success
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** While this recipe is simple, using high-quality ingredients will make a difference in the final product. Opt for a name-brand Nutella and fresh, refrigerated crescent roll dough.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaked crescent rolls will be dry and crumbly. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they are golden brown.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and fillings. The possibilities are endless!
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the Nutella crescent rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
* **Storage:** Store leftover Nutella crescent rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
## Serving Suggestions
Nutella crescent rolls are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to take them to the next level:
* **With a cup of coffee or tea:** The perfect accompaniment for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
* **With a scoop of vanilla ice cream:** A decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
* **With fresh fruit:** A healthy and refreshing addition that balances the richness of the Nutella.
* **As part of a brunch spread:** A crowd-pleasing addition to any brunch menu.
* **As a gift:** Wrap a batch of Nutella crescent rolls in a pretty box or basket for a thoughtful and homemade gift.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
* **Crescent rolls are not baking evenly:** Make sure your oven is properly preheated and that the baking sheet is placed in the center of the oven. You may also need to rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking.
* **Nutella is leaking out of the crescent rolls:** This is usually caused by overfilling. Use a more moderate amount of Nutella next time. Also, ensure the crescent rolls are sealed well.
* **Crescent rolls are too dry:** This is usually caused by overbaking. Reduce the baking time or lower the oven temperature slightly.
* **Dough is too sticky:** Ensure the dough is cold. If it is too warm, it will stick. Try to avoid overworking the dough as well.
## Conclusion
Nutella crescent rolls are a simple yet incredibly satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in countless ways. From the classic recipe to creative variations, there’s a Nutella crescent roll for every taste and occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of flaky, chocolate-hazelnut perfection. Happy baking!