Air Fryer Nutella Bombs

I discovered these little treats last year when looking for a quick dessert to make with my niece during her weekend visit. These Nutella bombs have since become our special "aunt time" tradition - they're ridiculously simple but feel like such an indulgent treat. The contrast between the warm, flaky exterior and that molten chocolate-hazelnut center creates this incredible bite that's impossible to resist.

Last weekend, I made these for my neighbor's coffee gathering. Her teenage son, who's typically glued to his phone during these events, actually put his device down and came back for seconds. His mom texted me later asking for the recipe because he kept talking about "those amazing chocolate things."

Simple Ingredients

• Refrigerated biscuits - The Grand size works perfectly here, creating bombs that are substantial without being too large. Avoid the flaky layers variety as they don't seal as well.
• Nutella - The star of the show! Its thick consistency makes it ideal for filling as it doesn't leak out during cooking. Room temperature Nutella spreads more easily.
• Butter - Creates that golden, crispy exterior and adds rich flavor. Salted butter works fine too, adding a nice contrast to the sweetness.
• Confectioners' sugar - The final dusting not only looks pretty but adds a subtle sweetness that complements the chocolate-hazelnut filling perfectly.

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Cooking Method

Prepare the dough:

Carefully separate each biscuit into two layers by gently peeling them apart. This gives you thinner dough that cooks more evenly. Press each half into a circle about 4 inches wide – I use my fingers rather than a rolling pin for more control.

Fill with care:

Add just enough Nutella to the center of each circle. Too much and they'll burst during cooking; too little and you miss that glorious molten center moment. A tablespoon measuring spoon works perfectly.

Seal completely:

This is the most crucial step! Gather the edges of the dough and pinch firmly to create a tight seal with no openings. Any gaps will allow the Nutella to escape during cooking.

Shape evenly:

Roll each sealed bundle between your palms to create a ball with even thickness all around. This ensures consistent cooking and helps maintain the seal.

Butter generously:

Don't skip brushing both top and bottom with melted butter. This creates that gorgeous golden color and adds flavor to the outside of the bombs.

Cook in batches:

Avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. The bombs need space around them for proper air circulation. I typically cook 4-5 at a time depending on my air fryer size.

Watch closely:

Air fryers can vary in temperature, so check them at the 6-minute mark your first time making these. They're done when golden brown but before the dough starts to burn.

Serve warm:

These are at their absolute best when still warm with that melty center. The dusting of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch.

First time I made these, I used too much Nutella and several burst open during cooking. I've learned that a level tablespoon is plenty for that perfect center. Another batch I made with cinnamon roll dough instead of biscuits - amazing but even sweeter! My latest improvement was adding a tiny pinch of sea salt on top before the powdered sugar, which creates this incredible sweet-salty contrast that elevates the whole experience.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange these warm treats on a white serving plate with the powdered sugar dusting for a simple but elegant presentation. For breakfast or brunch, pair with fresh berries and coffee for a special morning treat. These make an incredible dessert served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream while still warm - the temperature contrast is absolutely heavenly. For a fun dessert bar, set out these bombs alongside small bowls of additional toppings like chocolate sauce, caramel, or crushed hazelnuts.

Creative Variations

Try using different fillings - a spoonful of cookie butter or peanut butter creates a delicious alternative to Nutella. Add a small cube of cream cheese along with the Nutella for a cheesecake-inspired version that's tangy and rich. For a grown-up twist, mix the Nutella with a teaspoon of orange liqueur or espresso before filling. During the holidays, I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon to the powdered sugar for a festive touch. My family loves the s'mores version where I add a mini marshmallow alongside the Nutella before sealing.

Storage Solutions

These bombs are truly best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer while the centers are still warm and melty. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. The prepared but uncooked bombs can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking, which makes them great for preparing ahead for brunch gatherings. Just bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying.

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I've made these Nutella bombs for countless weekend breakfasts, after-school snacks, and even as dessert for impromptu dinner guests. There's something magical about that moment when someone takes their first bite and discovers the molten center - their eyes always light up! While they feel like a special indulgence, they come together so quickly that I never mind whipping up a batch when requested. My brother-in-law now asks for these instead of birthday cake, which I take as the highest possible compliment for such a simple treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different filling instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! You can substitute with peanut butter, cookie butter, jam, or even cream cheese mixed with a little sugar. Just make sure whatever filling you use isn't too runny.

→ What if I don't have an air fryer?

No problem! You can bake these in the oven at 375°F for 12-14 minutes in a muffin tin until golden brown, as mentioned in the recipe notes.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can assemble the bombs ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking. They're best enjoyed warm and fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days and reheated in the air fryer.

→ Why did my Nutella bombs burst open during cooking?

This usually happens when the bombs aren't sealed properly or when too much filling is used. Make sure to pinch the edges firmly and ensure there are no thin spots in the dough. Using about 1 tablespoon of filling per bomb helps prevent overflow.

→ Can I freeze these Nutella bombs?

Yes! You can freeze them either before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, place the assembled bombs on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time. Already cooked bombs can be frozen and reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes.