Save to Pinterest Last winter my sister called me on a gray Sunday morning, her voice groggy and sweet through the phone. She had air fried Nutella croissants and they changed her life. I hung up and stared at my pantry for thirty seconds before grabbing my shoes.
I made these for book club last month when I forgot I was hosting. Everyone stood around the kitchen island, chocolate on their chins, asking for the recipe like I had slaved for hours. I never told them my secret.
Ingredients
- Store bought croissants: Day old actually work better here because they hold up to the heat without collapsing
- Nutella: Let it sit on the counter for ten minutes first cold spread tears warm pastry
- Chopped hazelnuts or powdered sugar: Completely optional but makes them look like you tried way harder than you did
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer:
- Set it to 350°F and let it fully heat up while you prep the croissants
- Slice and spread:
- Cut each croissant horizontally like a book, then spread about two tablespoons of Nutella inside
- Warm them through:
- Place in the air fryer basket without overcrowding and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until golden
- Finish and serve:
- Add hazelnuts or powdered sugar now if using and eat them immediately while the chocolate is still molten
Save to Pinterest My three year old niece took one bite and closed her eyes, swaying side to side. That is the highest compliment I have ever received.
Make Ahead Storage
You can assemble the croissants up to a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Air fry them straight from cold just add an extra minute to the cooking time.
Serving Ideas
A warm cappuccino cuts through the richness perfectly. Or go full indulgence with a glass of cold chocolate milk.
Customization Options
Tuck sliced bananas or strawberries inside with the Nutella for fresh pockets of sweetness. A pinch of sea salt on top changes everything.
- Swap almond butter for Nutella if hazelnuts are not your thing
- Add a dollop of mascarpone for extra creaminess
- Try orange marmalade with dark chocolate spread instead
Save to Pinterest Sometimes the simplest recipes bring the most joy. These little chocolate pockets have rescued more bad days than I can count.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different spread instead of Nutella?
Yes, chocolate-hazelnut spreads or other creamy chocolate-based spreads work well. Feel free to experiment with alternatives for varied flavors.
- → What is the best way to crisp croissants quickly?
Using an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) crisps croissants evenly in about 4-5 minutes, producing a golden, flaky texture.
- → Can I add fruit inside the croissants?
Absolutely! Adding sliced bananas or strawberries before heating adds freshness and complements the Nutella’s richness.
- → Is it possible to bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, baking at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes will also achieve a warm, crisp finish similar to air frying.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day, then reheat gently before enjoying.
