Nutella Crescent Rolls Recipe – Easy 5-Ingredient Dessert for Parties

Name: Nutella Crescent Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough; 1/2 cup Nutella (or other chocolate hazelnut spread); 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting, optional); 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Posted on August 31, 2025

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Introduction

Golden, flaky, and oozing with dreamy chocolate hazelnut filling—just the smell of these Nutella Crescent Rolls baking in my kitchen is enough to make anyone’s day better. The first time I whipped up a batch, it was for a spontaneous girls’ night (honestly, I needed something sweet and quick). You know those moments when you crave something decadent but refuse to spend more than 15 minutes prepping? That’s exactly how these little treats came to life.

I’ve always loved crescent roll desserts, but adding Nutella was a game changer. It started as an “I wonder if…” experiment and quickly became my go-to for parties, family movie nights, and basically any occasion where I want a crowd-pleasing treat without a ton of fuss. These Nutella Crescent Rolls are more than just easy—they’re the kind of dessert that disappears in minutes and gets requested again and again. If you’re into Pinterest-worthy recipes that deliver on taste and convenience, this is one you’ll want to save.

As someone who’s baked for years (and tested way too many quick desserts), I can promise you this: these rolls are foolproof, even if you’re new to baking. They’re perfect for busy families, college students, or anyone who loves Nutella (so… almost everyone). The best part? You only need five ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s face it, sometimes you just need a shortcut to happiness—and Nutella Crescent Rolls are mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—no complicated steps or fancy tools required.
Only 5 Ingredients: You probably have everything you need already. No special shopping trips necessary.
Perfect for Parties: Whether it’s a birthday, potluck, or just a Tuesday night, these rolls are always a hit.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids, adults, picky eaters, even the skeptical “I don’t like sweets” types… everyone goes for seconds.
Unbelievably Delicious: Buttery crescent dough with warm, gooey Nutella—need I say more?

Honestly, what sets these Nutella Crescent Rolls apart is how the Nutella melts into the soft layers, creating a perfect bite every time. I’ve tried other chocolate-filled pastries, but there’s something magic about the combo of store-bought crescent dough and that silky hazelnut spread. If you want to impress guests without any stress, this is the recipe for you.

It’s not just about taste—these rolls bring a little joy to the table, whether you’re celebrating or just need a pick-me-up treat. I’ve made them for brunches, sleepovers, and even as a sweet snack for my kids after school. The best part? You can make a double batch in no time if you need to feed a crowd. So if you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear fast, Nutella Crescent Rolls are it.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together for maximum yum. Here’s what you’ll need:

Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough (1 package, 8 oz / 226g): The classic kind you find in the refrigerated section. Pillsbury is my go-to, but any brand works.
Nutella (1/2 cup / 120g): The star of the show! If you prefer another chocolate hazelnut spread, go ahead and use it.
Butter (2 tbsp / 28g, melted): For brushing (adds a rich flavor and helps the rolls turn golden).
Powdered Sugar (2 tbsp / 15g): For dusting on top after baking (optional, but it makes them extra pretty for Pinterest photos!).
Chopped Hazelnuts (2 tbsp / 15g): Optional, for a little crunch and to play up the Nutella flavor. I sometimes skip these if I’m making rolls for nut-allergic friends.

Ingredient Tips:

If you want a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free crescent dough (they’re out there, trust me!).
You can swap Nutella for any favorite chocolate spread—think almond chocolate or even peanut butter if you’re feeling wild.
For a fancier finish, sprinkle the rolls with flaky sea salt before baking. It’s a tiny touch but makes a big difference.
If you’re out of butter, a quick brush of milk works in a pinch. The rolls will still brown nicely.

I always keep a can of crescent dough and a jar of Nutella on hand for dessert emergencies (yes, those are real). These ingredients are pantry staples in my house—and once you try this recipe, you might just find yourself stocking up as well!

Equipment Needed

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated—here’s all you really need to make Nutella Crescent Rolls:

Baking Sheet: Any standard size works. If you don’t have one, an oven-safe pizza tray does the trick.
Nonstick Parchment Paper: Makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the rolls from sticking. You can use a silicone baking mat instead.
Butter Brush: For brushing melted butter. If you don’t have a brush, just use the back of a spoon or your (clean) fingers.
Small Bowl: To melt butter and mix nuts if using.
Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For slicing the dough, if needed.

I’ve tried making these on foil before (bad idea, they stuck!). Parchment is best. If you’re on a budget, most of these tools can be found at dollar stores or online for cheap. My favorite butter brush is silicone—easy to wash and lasts forever. Just remember: don’t use your good chef’s knife for cutting dough (it dulls the blade). Pizza cutters are perfect!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the rolls bake evenly and get that golden color.
Prepare your baking sheet: Line with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Open the crescent dough: Unroll it gently onto a clean surface. Separate the triangles along the perforated lines—don’t worry if they’re not perfect!
Spread Nutella: Using a spoon or butter knife, spread about 1 tablespoon (15g) of Nutella on each triangle. Leave a tiny border so it doesn’t ooze out when rolling.
Add hazelnuts (optional): Sprinkle a pinch of chopped hazelnuts over the Nutella for crunch. Skip if making nut-free.
Roll up: Starting at the wider end, gently roll each triangle toward the tip. Try not to squeeze too tightly (Nutella loves to escape!). Place rolls on your baking sheet, tip-side down.
Brush with butter: Melt 2 tablespoons (28g) butter and brush over the tops. This helps with browning and flavor.
Bake: Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until rolls are puffed and golden brown. Start checking at 12 minutes—every oven is a little different.
Cool slightly: Let rolls rest on the pan for 3-5 minutes. This helps the Nutella set and keeps you from burning your mouth (I’ve made this mistake… more than once).
Dust with powdered sugar: Use a small sieve to sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm rolls. It looks pretty and adds a hint of sweetness.
Serve: Enjoy warm for maximum gooeyness! If you want to plate them for a party, arrange in a circle and garnish with extra hazelnuts.

Troubleshooting:

If Nutella leaks out, don’t panic—it caramelizes a bit and tastes awesome.
Dough splitting? Just pinch it back together before baking.
For even browning, rotate the pan halfway through baking.

My top tip: Pop leftover rolls in the microwave for 10 seconds to revive their gooey magic the next day.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks for making these Nutella Crescent Rolls consistently awesome:

Don’t overfill: It’s tempting to load up on Nutella, but too much makes the rolls hard to seal and messy. Stick to about 1 tablespoon per roll.
Chill the Nutella: If your kitchen is hot, Nutella gets runny. A quick 10-minute chill in the fridge makes spreading easier and less messy.
Use fresh dough: Old crescent dough can get sticky and hard to roll. Always check the expiration date.
Butter matters: Brushing the rolls with melted butter is key for that bakery-style finish. If you skip it, the rolls can look dull.
Batch baking: If you’re making a lot for a party, keep the rolled crescents chilled until ready to bake. This helps them hold their shape.
Common mistakes: Rolling too tightly can push Nutella out. Rolling too loosely makes the rolls unravel. Aim for a gentle, even roll.
Personal fail: Once, I forgot the parchment and had to scrape rolls off the pan—total disaster! Always use parchment.
Multitasking: While the rolls bake, wash your utensils and prep the powdered sugar so you can serve hot.

Consistency is all about following the steps and trusting your senses—if the rolls look golden and smell amazing, they’re ready!

Variations & Adaptations

Nutella Crescent Rolls are super flexible—here are some favorite twists:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough. The texture is slightly different but still delicious.
Seasonal Fruit: Add a thin slice of strawberry, banana, or raspberry on top of the Nutella before rolling. Perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix a little peanut butter with Nutella for a nutty twist (great if you adore Reese’s-style treats).
Vegan Option: Use vegan crescent dough and a dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread. Brush with plant-based butter.
Allergen Substitutions: Skip the hazelnuts for nut allergies or use sunflower seed butter instead of Nutella.

One of my favorite personal tweaks is sprinkling a little cinnamon into the Nutella for a cozy, autumn vibe. If you want something more decadent, try drizzling melted chocolate over the baked rolls—Pinterest loves a good chocolate drizzle!

If you prefer savory, swap Nutella for a cheese or pesto filling and bake as directed. The technique stays the same, but the flavor changes completely.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Presentation is half the fun with these rolls. Serve them warm on a pretty platter, dusted with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts. For parties, arrange in a circle with a bowl of extra Nutella in the middle for dipping (trust me, people love it).

They pair perfectly with coffee, hot chocolate, or cold milk. For brunch, I like to serve them alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. If you’re entertaining, a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes these rolls a showstopper dessert.

To store: Place leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month (wrap tightly in foil). Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore their gooey texture.

The flavors deepen overnight, and the rolls get even more tender. If you love them fresh, make a small batch—you’ll never have leftovers anyway!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each Nutella Crescent Roll (without added nuts) contains approximately:

Calories: 140
Fat: 8g
Carbs: 16g
Protein: 2g
Sugar: 8g

Crescent rolls are a source of quick energy, and Nutella adds a little boost of calcium and iron. If you use the hazelnuts, you’ll get healthy fats and a bit more protein. For gluten-free or vegan diets, just use the appropriate dough and spread.

Allergens: Wheat, dairy, nuts (if using hazelnuts). Always check ingredient labels if cooking for someone with allergies.

These rolls aren’t exactly health food, but honestly, dessert should be fun. It’s all about balance—enjoy a treat, then go for a walk. That’s my wellness philosophy!

Conclusion

Nutella Crescent Rolls are the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to. They’re quick, easy, and ridiculously tasty—perfect for parties, lazy weekends, or those “I need chocolate now” emergencies. Whether you stick to the classic five ingredients or try a fun twist, you’ll get a dessert that looks amazing and tastes even better.

Customize them however you like—add fruit, swap spreads, or make them gluten-free. That’s the beauty of this recipe: almost no rules, just pure deliciousness. I love making these for family and friends because they always bring smiles (and requests for the recipe!).

Give these Nutella Crescent Rolls a try, and let me know your favorite variations in the comments! Pin, share, and tag me on your creations—I can’t wait to see your spin on this easy dessert. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store-bought?

Yes! Homemade dough works great—just roll it into triangles and follow the same steps. It might take a bit longer, but the flavor is amazing.

Can I make Nutella Crescent Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prep and roll the crescents, then refrigerate them on the baking sheet (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake fresh when you need them.

What if I don’t have Nutella?

Any chocolate spread will do. You can even use peanut butter, almond butter, or a mix for a different flavor.

Can I freeze Nutella Crescent Rolls?

Yes. Let baked rolls cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and gooey.

How do I keep the rolls from opening while baking?

Make sure to roll them snugly and place them tip-side down on the baking sheet. If needed, pinch the edges to seal before baking.

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Nutella Crescent Rolls recipe