Pin it Last Sunday morning, I stood in my kitchen watching steam curl off my coffee mug when I remembered the day-old croissants from the bakery down the street. My friend Clara had stayed over and shuffled in rubbing her eyes asking if I had anything chocolate. I had half a jar of Nutella in the pantry and a wild idea.
We ate them standing up at the counter with chocolate smeared on our chins and Clara said these were better than the ones she had in Lyon last spring. Thats when I knew this wasnt just a rescue mission for stale pastry. It was a legitimate dessert hack.
Ingredients
- 4 store-bought croissants: Day-old ones work brilliantly here since they will get crispy in the air fryer anyway
- 1/2 cup Nutella: Room temperature spreads easier so it wont tear the delicate croissant layers
- 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts or powdered sugar: Completely optional but that little crunch or snow-dust finish makes it feel special
Instructions
- Get your air fryer ready:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C) while you prep everything else so you can work quickly once the croissants are filled
- Prep the croissants:
- Slice each one horizontally but stop before cutting all the way through like youre opening a book
- Fill with Nutella:
- Spread about 2 tablespoons inside each croissant then gently press the top down so the chocolate stays put
- Air fry until golden:
- Cook in a single layer for 4 to 5 minutes until the outside is crisp and you can see the Nutella bubbling slightly
- Finish and serve:
- Let them cool for just a minute then add hazelnuts or powdered sugar if you want that extra something
Pin it Now I make these whenever I need a quick dessert that feels indulgent but only takes ten minutes. The contrast between the shattering crisp exterior and the warm chocolate filling is something special.
Best Variations To Try
My daughter likes adding sliced bananas inside before air frying which makes the whole thing taste like a banana Nutella crepe. Strawberries work too and add this fresh tartness that cuts through all that richness.
No Air Fryer No Problem
My sister doesnt own an air fryer so she bakes hers at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. They dont get quite as crisp but the result is still absolutely worth it.
Serving Ideas
Ive learned these are perfect with a strong cup of coffee or even a cold glass of milk when you want that after-school snack feeling. They reheat surprisingly well too just 30 seconds in the microwave brings back that gooey center.
- Dont crowd the air fryer basket or they will steam instead of crisp
- Room temperature Nutella spreads so much easier than cold
- A small sieve makes the powdered sugar distribution even and restaurant-worthy
Pin it These have become my go-to when I want something that feels like a treat but comes together faster than I can finish my morning coffee.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use alternatives to Nutella?
Yes, any chocolate-hazelnut spread or similar creamy spread can be used to fill the croissants.
- → How do I achieve a flaky texture?
Using store-bought croissants ensures a buttery, flaky base that crisps nicely in the air fryer.
- → Can I bake instead of air frying?
Baking at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes works well if an air fryer isn’t available.
- → Are there optional toppings?
Chopped hazelnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar add texture and sweetness when sprinkled on top.
- → How can I add fruit flavors?
Inserting sliced bananas or strawberries inside the croissants before crisping offers a fresh, fruity twist.