Looking for a decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls? These Nutella Cinnamon Rolls will transform your weekend breakfast into a chocolate lover’s dream. Why settle for ordinary when you can indulge in something extraordinary?
Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy cinnamon roll that’s oozing with rich, chocolatey Nutella instead of the traditional cinnamon-sugar filling. That’s the magic of these Nutella Cinnamon Rolls. They’re perfect for special breakfasts, brunches, or whenever you need a sweet treat that’ll impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love These Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
These Nutella cinnamon rolls transform a classic breakfast treat into an irresistible chocolate experience you won’t be able to resist. Here’s why they’ll become your new favorite:
- Perfect chocolate-hazelnut flavor that satisfies even the most intense sweet cravings
- Impressive yet surprisingly simple to make with basic pantry ingredients
- No special equipment needed beyond standard baking tools you likely already own
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining or holiday morning preparation
- Customizable sweetness levels depending on your topping choices
- Kid-approved while sophisticated enough for adults to enjoy
- Better than bakery versions at a fraction of the cost
The pillowy soft dough pairs perfectly with the rich Nutella filling that melts slightly during baking creating pockets of chocolate bliss throughout each roll. Your kitchen will fill with an intoxicating aroma that draws everyone to the table before they’re even out of the oven.
These rolls strike the perfect balance between decadence and homemade comfort. The hazelnut notes in the Nutella complement the buttery dough creating a flavor profile that elevates these beyond ordinary cinnamon rolls without being overly complicated.
Ingredients For Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
Creating these indulgent chocolate-hazelnut rolls requires three component parts: a soft enriched dough, a decadent Nutella filling, and a sweet finishing glaze. Each element plays an essential role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For The Dough
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F
- 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- 4-6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1-2 eggs, at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional for chocolate dough variation)
For The Filling
- ½ cup Nutella hazelnut spread
- 1-2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 3-4 tablespoons butter, softened
- ¼ to ½ cup brown sugar (optional for additional sweetness)
For The Glaze
- ¾ to 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ to 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or double cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons Nutella (optional for chocolate glaze)
Equipment Needed
Creating these indulgent Nutella cinnamon rolls requires just a few basic kitchen tools you likely already have on hand. Gather these items before starting to ensure a smooth baking process:
- Large mixing bowl – For combining your dough ingredients and allowing proper space for the dough to rise
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements to achieve the perfect dough consistency
- Stand mixer with dough hook – While optional, this significantly simplifies the mixing and kneading process, saving you time and effort
- Rolling pin – Necessary for rolling the dough into an even rectangle before applying the Nutella filling
- 9×13 inch baking pan – Provides the ideal space for your rolls to rise and bake properly
- Sharp knife or dental floss – For cleanly cutting the rolled dough into individual rolls without squishing them
- Rubber spatula – Helps spread Nutella evenly across the dough surface
- Aluminum foil or clean kitchen towel – Used to cover the dough during rising periods
- Pastry brush – Optional but helpful for applying melted butter to the dough
- Wire cooling rack – Allows your freshly baked rolls to cool slightly before adding glaze
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no specialized baking equipment is required to create these impressive chocolate-hazelnut treats. Most home bakers already own these basic tools, making this recipe accessible even for those with modestly equipped kitchens.
How To Make Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
Transform your breakfast with these indulgent Nutella cinnamon rolls that combine the classic comfort of soft dough with rich chocolate hazelnut spread. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.
Preparing The Dough
Start by activating the yeast in warm milk (about 105°F) with a bit of granulated or brown sugar. Pour this mixture into a large bowl and add softened unsalted butter, flour, and salt. Knead the dough thoroughly until it becomes smooth and elastic – this typically takes about 5-7 minutes by hand or 3-4 minutes in a stand mixer. Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (approximately 1 hour). For a quicker option, store-bought crescent roll dough can substitute the homemade version, eliminating the need for kneading and rising.
Making The Filling
Roll out your risen dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle measuring roughly 12×18 inches and 1/4 inch thick. Spread a layer of softened butter evenly across the surface, leaving about an inch border around all edges. Sprinkle ground cinnamon generously over the butter layer. Apply a thick, even coating of Nutella on top of the cinnamon – this creates the signature chocolate hazelnut flavor that makes these rolls special. The warmth from the freshly risen dough helps make the Nutella more spreadable for even distribution.
Rolling And Cutting
Begin rolling the dough from the long edge, creating a tight cylinder. Work slowly and maintain even pressure to ensure the roll stays uniform. Once completely rolled, pinch the seam firmly to seal the log. Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts – slide the floss under the log, cross the ends at the top, and pull to slice through without compressing the dough. Divide the log into 12 equal pieces for standard-sized rolls. Arrange the cut rolls in your greased baking pan with the cut sides facing up.
Rising Time
Position your rolls in a well-greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion. Cover the pan loosely with a kitchen towel and place in a warm, draft-free location. Let the rolls rise again until noticeably puffy and nearly doubled in size – this second rise typically takes 25-60 minutes depending on your room temperature. The rolls should expand to touch one another, creating that classic pull-apart texture once baked.
Baking The Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls complete their final rise. Place the pan in the center rack of your oven and bake for 20-27 minutes until the tops turn golden brown. Monitor their progress after the 15-minute mark – if you notice excessive browning, loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the centers to finish cooking. The rolls are done when they reach an internal temperature of 190°F or when they sound hollow when tapped.
Glazing Your Rolls
Allow your freshly baked rolls to cool for 5-10 minutes before applying the glaze. Prepare your frosting while waiting – a classic cream cheese frosting adds tanginess that balances the sweet filling, or make a simple glaze with powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Pour or spread the glaze over the still-warm rolls, letting it melt slightly into the crevices. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle additional warmed Nutella over the frosted rolls or place a small dollop in the center of each one before serving.
Tips For Perfect Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
Creating truly spectacular Nutella cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail and a few expert techniques. Follow these professional tips to elevate your chocolate-hazelnut rolls from good to absolutely irresistible.
The Perfect Dough
- Use fresh yeast for optimal rising. Active dry yeast should foam within 5-10 minutes when placed in warm milk and sugar.
- Warm your milk to exactly 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it. Use a thermometer for precision.
- Substitute brown sugar for white sugar in your dough recipe to add depth of flavor and subtle caramel notes.
- Knead until smooth and elastic but avoid overworking the dough, which can result in tough rolls.
- Let the dough rise in a warm draft-free spot until doubled in size for the fluffiest texture.
Nutella Spreading Success
- Warm your Nutella for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to achieve a more spreadable consistency.
- Use an offset spatula to create an even layer of Nutella across your dough rectangle.
- Leave a 1/2-inch border around the edges of your dough to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
- Consider adding ground cinnamon directly to your Nutella for an enhanced spiced flavor that complements the chocolate-hazelnut spread.
Rolling and Cutting Techniques
- Roll the dough tightly from the shorter side to maximize the number of swirls in each roll.
- Use dental floss or unflavored sewing thread for the cleanest cuts without squishing your rolls.
- For knife cutting, use a serrated blade with gentle sawing motions and clean between each cut.
- Maintain equal sizing between rolls to ensure they bake evenly and look professional.
Baking Perfection
- Arrange rolls with at least 1 inch of space between them in your baking pan to allow for expansion.
- Bake at a moderate temperature (around 350°F) for 12-15 minutes until golden but still slightly gooey in the center.
- Cover with foil halfway through baking if the tops are browning too quickly.
- Check doneness by temperature – the center should reach 190°F for perfectly baked rolls.
Glaze and Serving Suggestions
- Apply glaze while rolls are still warm but not hot to allow it to partially melt into the crevices.
- Try a cream cheese frosting for tanginess that balances the sweet Nutella filling.
- For chocolate lovers, add a tablespoon of Nutella to your glaze for an extra chocolate punch.
- Serve warm for the ultimate experience when the Nutella is still slightly molten inside.
Following these professional techniques ensures your Nutella cinnamon rolls will have that perfect balance of fluffy dough, rich chocolate-hazelnut filling, and decadent glaze that will impress family and friends alike. These little details make all the difference between ordinary rolls and truly memorable breakfast treats.
Make-Ahead Instructions
These Nutella cinnamon rolls are perfect for planning ahead making them ideal for stress-free holiday mornings or weekend brunches. You can prepare them the night before and bake them fresh when needed with these simple make-ahead methods:
Overnight Refrigeration Method
Prepare the rolls completely through the slicing and arranging in your baking pan. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. Place your prepared rolls in the refrigerator where they’ll slowly rise overnight for up to 12 hours. Remove the pan from the refrigerator about 1 hour before baking to allow the rolls to come to room temperature and complete their second rise. Bake according to the original instructions until golden brown and perfectly fluffy.
Freezer Storage Options
For longer storage prepare the rolls through slicing but before the second rise. Arrange them in a freezer-safe pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Cover tightly with both plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store frozen for up to 3 months without quality loss. When ready to bake transfer the frozen rolls to the refrigerator 24 hours before baking then allow them to complete their second rise at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before baking.
Make-Ahead Finishing Touches
Prepare your glaze up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm the glaze slightly before using by microwaving for 10-15 seconds and stirring until smooth. For the ultimate time-saver portion your Nutella filling into a container ahead of time so it’s ready to spread when needed.
| Make-Ahead Timeline | Refrigerator Storage | Freezer Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Prepared dough | Up to 24 hours | Up to 1 month |
| Sliced rolls | Up to 12 hours | Up to 3 months |
| Baked rolls | 3-5 days | Up to 3 months |
| Prepared glaze | Up to 3 days | Not recommended |
Allow frozen baked rolls to thaw completely at room temperature before reheating in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes wrapped loosely in foil. Fresh baked rolls always taste best but these make-ahead methods ensure you can enjoy that warm Nutella cinnamon roll goodness even on the busiest mornings.
Storage And Freezing
These Nutella cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven but sometimes you need to store leftovers or prepare them in advance. Proper storage ensures your rolls stay moist and delicious for days after baking.
Room Temperature Storage
Keep your freshly baked Nutella cinnamon rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Without frosting they maintain their texture well when properly covered. If you’ve added cream cheese frosting refrigeration becomes necessary to prevent spoilage.
Refrigerator Storage
Store frosted Nutella cinnamon rolls in the refrigerator for up to one week. To prevent them from drying out wrap each roll individually with plastic wrap before placing in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. This extra step maintains their soft texture even in the cold environment of your fridge.
Freezer Storage
Nutella cinnamon rolls freeze beautifully for longer preservation. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap then place in an airtight container or freezer bag to protect against freezer burn. Frozen rolls maintain quality for up to 1-2 months when properly stored.
Freeze your rolls unfrosted for best results. Store any cream cheese frosting separately in the refrigerator for up to a week and add it after reheating the rolls for that fresh-baked taste.
Storing Unbaked Rolls
Prepare your Nutella cinnamon rolls ahead of time by assembling them completely then refrigerating overnight. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out during overnight refrigeration.
For longer storage freeze unbaked rolls for up to one month. This method allows you to enjoy freshly baked Nutella cinnamon rolls whenever the craving strikes without starting from scratch.
Reheating Instructions
Warm refrigerated rolls in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through. For frozen rolls thaw them overnight in the refrigerator then bring to room temperature before warming in the oven for 10-15 minutes.
Add your reserved frosting after reheating for the perfect finishing touch. The warm rolls will slightly melt the frosting creating that irresistible gooey texture everyone loves.
Variations Of Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
These delectable chocolate-hazelnut treats can be customized in several ways to suit your taste preferences and time constraints. Here are four popular variations that will satisfy your Nutella cravings:
Classic Nutella Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
The traditional version features a soft yeast dough filled with a rich combination of Nutella and cinnamon. These rolls are topped with tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness of the filling. Your dough should be made with yeast flour butter sugar and eggs for the ideal fluffy texture. The contrast between the gooey Nutella-cinnamon interior and the slightly tangy frosting creates an irresistible flavor profile that has made this variation a fan favorite.
Nutella Crescent Rolls
When you need a quick Nutella fix without the fuss of making yeast dough from scratch use pre-made crescent roll dough as your base. Simply unroll the dough spread with Nutella and cinnamon then roll and bake. These rolls require minimal preparation yet deliver maximum flavor especially when topped with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar butter vanilla and cream. This time-saving variation transforms store-bought dough into an impressive breakfast treat in minutes.
Nutella Rolls with Nutella Icing
For true Nutella enthusiasts this double-chocolate version incorporates the beloved spread in both the filling and icing. The filling features the classic Nutella-cinnamon combination while the topping replaces traditional cream cheese frosting with a rich Nutella glaze. This variation creates an intensely chocolate-hazelnut experience with layers of Nutella goodness both inside and out making it perfect for serious chocolate lovers.
Chocolate Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
Take your Nutella rolls to the next level by incorporating cocoa powder directly into the dough. This variation produces a chocolate dough that complements the Nutella filling perfectly. The rolls are typically filled with a combination of cinnamon sugar butter and Nutella then topped with a luscious Nutella icing made by mixing Nutella with powdered sugar vanilla and cream. The result is an ultra-chocolatey experience with warm cinnamon notes throughout.
Each variation maintains the essential combination of warm cinnamon spice and rich Nutella that makes these rolls so special. Whether you prefer the classic cream cheese topping the convenience of crescent rolls the double-Nutella experience or the chocolate dough version you will find a Nutella cinnamon roll variation that suits your taste preferences and baking schedule.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nutella cinnamon rolls warm from the oven to fully enjoy their gooey texture and melted hazelnut chocolate center. The heat activates the Nutella’s creamy consistency creating that perfect pull-apart moment everyone loves.
For an extra indulgent touch spread additional Nutella on top of freshly baked rolls while they’re still warm. This enhances both the gooeyness and intensifies the chocolate-hazelnut flavor profile that makes these rolls so irresistible.
Present your rolls individually on dessert plates for a more elegant breakfast or brunch presentation. Alternatively scoop them directly from the baking pan for a casual family-style serving that encourages sharing and conversation.
Pair these decadent treats with complementary beverages to balance their richness. A strong cup of coffee cuts through the sweetness while hot chocolate creates an ultimate chocolate lover’s experience. For younger guests milk makes the perfect accompaniment.
Sprinkle toasted chopped hazelnuts over the frosted rolls just before serving to add textural contrast and enhance the nutty flavors. This simple addition elevates the visual appeal and provides a sophisticated finish.
Time your serving carefully as these rolls are truly at their prime when enjoyed the same day they’re baked. Their freshness preserves both the pillow-soft texture of the dough and the melty consistency of the Nutella filling.
Transform these rolls into a dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside when serving warm. The contrast between cold ice cream and warm roll creates a delightful temperature play that enhances the overall experience.
Consider setting up a Nutella cinnamon roll bar for brunch gatherings with various toppings such as fresh berries cream cheese frosting chocolate sauce and chopped nuts allowing guests to customize their own indulgent creation.
The Perfect Occasion For Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
These indulgent Nutella cinnamon rolls transcend ordinary breakfast fare and deserve a special place at your table. Their rich chocolate hazelnut flavor and impressive appearance make them ideal for many occasions.
Weekend brunches become extraordinary events when these pillowy rolls take center stage. The leisurely pace of weekend mornings provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the baking process and savor the results with family or friends gathered around the table.
Holiday celebrations call for something special and these Nutella cinnamon rolls deliver with their festive appeal. Imagine Christmas morning with the aroma of freshly baked chocolate hazelnut rolls filling your home or Easter brunch featuring these decadent treats alongside traditional favorites.
Birthday breakfasts gain an extra touch of celebration when you present the birthday person with these gooey chocolate hazelnut rolls. The effort involved in making them demonstrates thoughtfulness while their indulgent nature says “today is special.”
Hosting overnight guests? Prepare these rolls ahead using the overnight refrigeration method and impress your visitors with a homemade breakfast that feels both special and welcoming. The make-ahead capability ensures you can focus on your guests rather than kitchen duties.
Special family gatherings benefit from shareable treats that bring everyone together. These rolls create memorable food experiences that become part of your family tradition while satisfying sweet cravings all around.
Date night dessert offers another perfect setting for these rolls. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream the rolls transform into a cozy dessert ideal for sharing with someone special.
Potluck contributions that stand out from typical offerings will make you the star of any gathering. These Nutella rolls travel well when properly stored and offer something different from standard potluck fare.
Self care days deserve special treats too. Sometimes the occasion is simply treating yourself to something delicious after a challenging week. The therapeutic process of making these rolls combined with the reward of enjoying them creates a perfect self care ritual.
Whenever chocolate cravings strike these rolls provide the perfect solution combining the comfort of homemade baked goods with the irresistible flavor of Nutella. Their versatility makes them appropriate for nearly any occasion that calls for something sweet indulgent and memorable.
Conclusion
These Nutella cinnamon rolls transform ordinary mornings into chocolate-hazelnut celebrations. With their pillowy soft dough and pockets of rich Nutella filling they’ll quickly become your go-to indulgence for special occasions.
What makes these rolls truly special is their versatility. Make them ahead for stress-free entertaining customize them to your sweetness preference or experiment with delicious variations to suit any taste.
Whether served warm at weekend brunch topped with extra Nutella for dessert or prepared as a memorable holiday breakfast these rolls deliver irresistible flavor without complicated techniques. Your kitchen will smell divine and your family will be reaching for seconds.
So roll up your sleeves grab that jar of Nutella and get ready to create something truly extraordinary!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Nutella cinnamon rolls different from traditional ones?
Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that use a cinnamon-sugar filling, Nutella cinnamon rolls feature a rich chocolate-hazelnut Nutella spread as the primary filling. They still contain cinnamon for that classic flavor, but the Nutella creates pockets of chocolate bliss that elevate these rolls to a more decadent treat while maintaining the familiar comfort of homemade rolls.
Can I make Nutella cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! These rolls are make-ahead friendly with two main options: refrigerate prepared rolls overnight using the Overnight Refrigeration Method, or freeze unbaked rolls for longer storage. You can prepare the dough, slice the rolls, or even fully bake them in advance. This makes them perfect for stress-free holiday mornings or weekend brunches.
What ingredients do I need for Nutella cinnamon rolls?
You’ll need ingredients for three components: the dough (milk, sugar, yeast, butter, eggs, salt, flour), the filling (Nutella, cinnamon, butter, optional brown sugar), and the glaze (powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, heavy cream, optional cream cheese or Nutella). Nothing fancy – just basic pantry staples that create an extraordinary result.
Do I need special equipment to make these rolls?
No special equipment is required. Basic kitchen tools will do: a large mixing bowl, measuring cups/spoons, rolling pin, 9×13 inch baking pan, sharp knife or dental floss for cutting, rubber spatula, and a wire cooling rack. A stand mixer with a dough hook is helpful but optional – you can knead the dough by hand.
How long do Nutella cinnamon rolls stay fresh?
Unfrosted rolls stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frosted rolls should be refrigerated and will last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls for 1-2 months. Properly stored and reheated, these rolls can maintain their delightful taste and texture for days.
Can I make these rolls more or less sweet?
Absolutely! The sweetness is customizable. For less sweetness, omit the optional brown sugar in the filling and use a lighter glaze. For more indulgence, add the brown sugar to the Nutella filling and use a rich cream cheese frosting. You can even create a double-chocolate experience by adding cocoa powder to the dough.
What’s the best way to serve Nutella cinnamon rolls?
Serve them warm to fully appreciate their gooey texture and melted filling. They’re delicious on their own, but can be elevated with extra Nutella on top, toasted hazelnuts, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert version. Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or milk for the perfect sweet breakfast or brunch experience.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they turn golden brown on top and reach an internal temperature of 190°F. The baking time is typically 25-30 minutes at 350°F, but can vary by oven. If the rolls are browning too quickly but aren’t cooked through, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while they finish baking.
Can I use ready-made dough for a quicker version?
Yes! For a time-saving variation, you can use store-bought crescent roll dough to make Nutella Crescent Rolls. Simply unroll the dough, spread with Nutella, roll up, slice, and bake according to package directions. While not as fluffy as homemade dough, this quick version still delivers that delicious Nutella-cinnamon flavor combination.
What occasions are perfect for Nutella cinnamon rolls?
These rolls are perfect for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, birthday celebrations, or hosting overnight guests. They’re impressive enough for special occasions yet comforting enough for a cozy family breakfast. They also make excellent potluck contributions and self-care day treats when you need something special to brighten your day.
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