Nutella Rolls

This pillowy soft Nutella roll recipe transforms simple ingredients into bakery-worthy treats with swirls of chocolate hazelnut goodness in every bite. Perfect for weekend baking projects or whenever your sweet tooth demands something special.

These rolls became my signature bring along for family brunches after I perfected them during a rainy weekend last autumn. The look on my nephew's face when he bit into that first warm roll convinced me I needed to keep this recipe forever.

Ingredients

• Warm water: Serves as the perfect environment to activate your yeast for a proper rise. Look for water that feels like warm bath water.
• Active dry yeast: Provides the necessary lift. Always check expiration dates to ensure successful rising.
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to balance the dough.
• Large egg: Enriches the dough for that soft brioche-like texture that melts in your mouth.
• Milk: Creates tenderness in the crumb structure creating that perfect pull-apart quality.
• Soft butter: Incorporates easily and adds richness to these indulgent rolls.
• All-purpose flour: Works perfectly here. No need for specialty flours for excellent results.
• Nutella spread: Forms the star of the filling. Room temperature Nutella spreads most easily.
• Chocolate chips: Add pockets of melty goodness and extra chocolate flavor dimension.
• Heavy cream: Brushed before baking creates soft tops and helps achieve that golden shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wake Up The Yeast:

Combine warm water around 110°F with active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for approximately 10 minutes until foamy and fragrant. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your dough.

Create The Foundation:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the flour and remaining sugar until well combined. This even distribution prevents sugar pockets in your final dough. If using instant yeast instead of active dry mix it directly with these dry ingredients now.

Bring Everything Together:

Pour your activated yeast mixture, milk, egg, and softened butter into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy, somewhat sticky dough forms. The dough will look rough at this stage which is perfectly normal.

Develop The Gluten:

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 10 to 15 minutes until smooth, elastic and slightly tacky but not sticky. Alternatively use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should stretch without tearing when properly kneaded.

First Rise:

Place your kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free location for about 90 minutes or until doubled in size. Look for a puffy, expanded texture that springs back slowly when gently poked.

Create The Rolls:

On a lightly floured surface roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12 by 15 inches and about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the Nutella evenly across the surface leaving a 1/2 inch border along one long edge. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the Nutella layer. Starting from the long edge without the border, roll the dough tightly into a log shape, pinching the seam to seal.

Portion Perfectly:

For cleanly cut rolls slide a piece of unflavored dental floss or kitchen string under the log. Cross the ends over the top and pull through to slice without squishing the rolls. Cut into 6 equal portions for larger rolls or 8 for medium-sized treats.

Second Rise:

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9-inch round cake pan or similar baking dish. Pour a small splash of heavy cream into the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the tops of the rolls. Cover loosely and allow to rise for another 30 minutes until puffy and touching each other.

Achieve Golden Perfection:

Preheat your oven to 374°F and bake the rolls for 15 to 17 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F. The chocolate will be molten and the kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma.

Finishing Touches:

For extra decadence, brush the hot rolls with a little melted butter immediately after baking. Allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth on the molten Nutella filling.

Pin it

The quality of your Nutella makes a huge difference here. I once splurged on imported Italian Nutella for these rolls when hosting my in-laws and the richness was noticeably better. That batch disappeared in minutes with everyone reaching for seconds.

Overnight Method

Prepare these rolls through the cutting step, then place them in your greased pan. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for 8 to 12 hours. The next morning, remove from the refrigerator, allow to come to room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes then bake as directed. This slow fermentation process enhances flavor and makes morning preparation effortless.

Storage Solutions

Store completely cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and rewarm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

These indulgent rolls pair beautifully with strong coffee, especially a dark espresso whose bitterness balances the sweet chocolate notes. For special occasions serve with fresh berries and lightly sweetened whipped cream to cut through the richness. A cold glass of milk completes the classic chocolate experience that children especially appreciate.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients without activating it in water.

→ How do I ensure my rolls are soft and fluffy?

Using warm liquid for the dough, kneading until elastic, and allowing proper rising time are key to soft, fluffy rolls. A splash of cream during baking adds extra softness.

→ Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! While Nutella and chocolate chips are delicious options, you can try other spreads like peanut butter or fruit jam, or add chopped nuts for texture.

→ How do I prevent the dough from sticking while rolling?

Lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin to prevent the dough from sticking as you roll it out to ¼" thickness.

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.