If you’re someone who dreams of bakery-fresh pastries but wants that touch of homemade magic (with almost no effort!), you’ll be absolutely smitten with these Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip). Imagine tender, buttery croissants with a molten Nutella center and melty pops of chocolate chips — all ready in about 10 minutes flat thanks to your trusty air fryer. They’re swoon-worthy for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Bakery Taste at Home: With hardly any effort, these air fryer croissants develop a crisp golden crust and tender crumb, just like from your favorite café.
- Decadent Nutella-Chocolate Filling: Every bite is rich, gooey, and full of chocolatey happiness — perfect for those who believe there’s no such thing as too much chocolate.
- Quick & Kid-Friendly Fun: Start-to-finish in about 10 minutes, these are a lifesaver for last-minute breakfasts or when those late-night cravings strike.
- Highly Customizable: You can swap the fillings or toppings to suit any mood or special occasion, making this recipe as versatile as it is delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) such a thrill is that each ingredient amps up the flavor and texture, but you only need a handful! Each one brings something special — from flaky pastry to creamy chocolate — coming together with almost zero prep.
- Pillsbury Big and Flaky Crescent Rolls (12 oz can): These ready-to-bake dough triangles become magically flaky croissants right in your air fryer.
- Nutella: The star of the show! This creamy, chocolate-hazelnut spread melts into a rich lava center with every bite.
- Chocolate Chips: Tucked at the base of each croissant, these give bursts of chocolatey surprise and added texture.
- 1 Egg: Whisked into a silky egg wash, it gives your croissants that bakery-style, golden brown shine.
- Water or 2% Milk: Just a splash helps thin the egg wash for even brushing (either works just fine!).
- Optional Garnishes (melted chocolate chips, honey, powdered sugar): Dress them up for extra flavor, prettiness, and pretty much guaranteed swooning at the table.
Variations
The beauty of Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) is how easy it is to adapt them for literally any taste bud or occasion. Don’t be afraid to play favorites or clear out your pantry with fun fillings and toppings!
- Jam-Filled Croissants: Swap Nutella for raspberry, strawberry, or apricot preserves for a fruity, gooey twist.
- Peanut Butter Dream: Layer in peanut butter with the chocolate chips for a decadent nutty-chocolate combo.
- Mini Marshmallow S’Mores: Toss in a few mini marshmallows along with the chocolate chips for gooey s’mores magic.
- Almond or Hazelnut Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts inside or on top for a nutty finish and a delightful crunch.
- Dairy-Free or Vegan: Use a vegan chocolate-hazelnut spread, dairy-free chocolate chips, and crescent roll dough labeled “vegan.”
How to Make Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip)
Step 1: Prep the Croissants
Pop open your can of crescent rolls and gently unroll the dough. Separate along the perforated edges so you have eight triangles, laying them flat. This is your blank buttery canvas — and it’s about to become something extraordinary!
Step 2: Add Nutella and Chocolate Chips
Slather each triangle generously with about two teaspoons of Nutella, spreading it edge to edge for maximum chocolate happiness. Sprinkle half a tablespoon of chocolate chips at the wide base of each triangle. Trust me, that burst of gooey melted chocolate is the secret weapon here!
Step 3: Roll Them Up
Starting at the wide end, snugly roll each triangle up towards the point, tucking in the chocolate chips as you go. Give the ends a gentle curve for that classic croissant crescent shape. (A little messy Nutella on your fingers just means you’re doing it right!)
Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash
Whisk together your egg with a tablespoon of water or milk. Lightly brush this over each uncooked croissant — it’ll give your Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) that irresistible golden sheen and a little extra crunch.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray, then arrange your croissants in a single layer, leaving space so they have a little room to expand. Air fry at 360°F for 8 minutes or until they’re puffed and gorgeously golden. Breathe in that amazing smell — it’s hard to resist digging in right away!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
As soon as they’re done, give the warm croissants a glossy brush with a drizzle of honey. If you want to go full dessert mode, finish with a quick zig-zag of melted chocolate and a snowfall of powdered sugar. Serve warm and watch everyone’s faces light up!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip)
- Dough Handling Magic: For the flakiest layers, keep the crescent dough as cold as possible until you’re ready to roll. If it warms up too much, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before shaping.
- Don’t Overfill: Two teaspoons of Nutella may seem modest, but a thin, even layer guarantees gooey filling without oozing out during air frying.
- Space Is Key: Air fry in batches if needed — giving croissants plenty of space lets the hot air circulate and ensures every one gets puffed and golden without any doughy spots.
- Warm Garnishes, Happy Melts: If you’re topping with melted chocolate, drizzle it as soon as the croissants come out of the fryer — the residual heat keeps everything dreamy and molten.
How to Serve Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip)
Garnishes
For next-level indulgence, dust Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or give them a glossy finish with a brush of warm honey. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or fresh berries will add both flair and texture for a show-stopping platter.
Side Dishes
Pair these croissants with a bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a breakfast worth lingering over. If you’re leaning toward dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a latte on the side is pure happiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing each croissant in half diagonally and arranging them on a cake stand for brunch, or nestle them into muffin cups for grab-and-go snacks. For parties, set out a croissant bar with extra toppings so everyone can customize their own dreamy creation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers, keep your Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) at their best by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll hang onto their softness and flavor — just don’t expect them to last that long!
Freezing
Wrap cooled croissants individually in plastic wrap and freeze inside an airtight container or zip bag. When that sweet craving calls, thaw at room temperature or revive them in the air fryer for just a couple minutes.
Reheating
For warm, fresh-baked flavor, give croissants a quick trip back in the air fryer at 320°F for 2–3 minutes, or pop them in a toaster oven. Be careful not to overheat — you want gooey insides with just a touch of crispy outside!
FAQs
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Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer an even flakier, more traditional croissant texture, swap in thawed puff pastry. Just be sure to cut it into triangles and keep an eye on the cooking time — it may need an extra minute, depending on your air fryer.
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How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during air frying?
Spread Nutella in a thin, even layer and avoid overstuffing with chocolate chips. Rolling snugly from the wide end helps contain everything, and leaving enough space between croissants ensures even cooking without bursting.
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Can I make Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble the croissants and store them (unbaked) in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready to party, egg wash and air fry straight from the fridge — you may need to add an extra minute or so to the cook time.
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What’s the best way to drizzle melted chocolate for garnish?
Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Use a spoon or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to drizzle artfully over the warm croissants for bakery-worthy style.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t wait for you to try Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) — they’re easy, unbelievably delicious, and impossible not to smile over. Whether it’s a cozy weekend or a special treat for loved ones, these melty little miracles are pure comfort wrapped in golden pastry. Give them a go and enjoy every chocolate-filled bite!
Print
Air Fryer Croissants (with Nutella and Chocolate Chip) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 8 croissants 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful treat with these air fryer croissants filled with Nutella and chocolate chips. Easy to make and perfect for a quick snack or dessert!
Ingredients
Croissants:
- 1 12–ounce can Pillsbury big and flaky crescent rolls
Filling:
- 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
- Prepare Croissants: Separate the croissants and lay them flat.
- Add Nutella: Spread about 2 teaspoons of Nutella on the entire top of the croissant.
- Fill with Chocolate Chips: Place ½ tablespoon of chocolate chips on the large end. Start rolling at the large end.
- Apply Egg Wash: Make egg wash by whisking together egg and water or milk until combined. Brush egg wash onto uncooked croissant.
- Air Fry: Spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place croissants in a single layer into the basket. Air fry for 8 minutes at 360 degrees or until golden brown.
- Optional Garnish: Finish with warm honey, a drizzle of melted chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
