Name: Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated crescent rolls (8-count (I used Pillsbury Big & Flaky Crescent Rolls)); ⅔ cup Nutella; 1 tablespoon cinnamon (plus more to taste); 2 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ¾ cup confectioners' sugar; a splash cream or milk (optional)

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, and when that bread is filled with gooey Nutella and warm cinnamon, it feels like you’re being welcomed into a warm embrace. Let me share with you a special moment I had while making Nutella Cinnamon Rolls on a lazy Sunday morning. I had just finished a long week and was craving something sweet and comforting. I decided to whip up these rolls, and as soon as I opened the can of refrigerated crescent rolls, I could already imagine the delight on my family’s faces. The combination of the rich Nutella with the gentle warmth of cinnamon is simply irresistible. My kids couldn’t wait for them to be ready, and their anticipation only added to the excitement. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
17 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why This Nutella Cinnamon Rolls Works

They Just Taste Amazing

There’s no denying that the flavor combination of Nutella and cinnamon is a match made in heaven. It’s like a warm hug that melts in your mouth, making every bite feel like a special treat. The flavors blend perfectly and create a delightful sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just enjoying a cozy afternoon, these Nutella Cinnamon Rolls are an ideal crowd-pleaser. They can elevate any gathering and bring joy to your table.

Fun to Make with Kids

This recipe is a fantastic way to involve your little ones in the kitchen! They’ll love helping you roll the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon. Making these rolls can become a cherished family tradition, offering a perfect opportunity for bonding.

Gooey Goodness

The texture of these rolls is simply divine. When you take a bite, the soft dough combined with the melted Nutella creates a gooey, indulgent experience. It’s the kind of dessert that you can’t resist and will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile and Easy

What I love most about Nutella Cinnamon Rolls is their versatility. You can enjoy them warm straight out of the oven or let them cool and glaze them. They’re great for breakfast, dessert, or even as an afternoon snack!

Quick to Prepare

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these up quickly. This makes them perfect for those moments when you need a last-minute sweet treat or want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Shopping List for Nutella Cinnamon Rolls

Having the right ingredients is essential for making delicious Nutella Cinnamon Rolls. Each component brings its unique flavor and texture, creating a delightful treat you’ll love! Let’s dive into these key players, focusing on the magic they create together.

1 can of refrigerated crescent rolls (8-count) – This is the base of your rolls, providing a soft and flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the filling.
⅔ cup of Nutella – The star of the show! This creamy hazelnut spread brings a rich sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
1 tablespoon of cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the rolls.
2 ½ tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted – This helps to bind the filling and adds a luscious richness.
½ teaspoon of vanilla extract – A hint of vanilla enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
¾ cup of confectioners’ sugar – Essential for making a sweet glaze that tops the rolls beautifully.
A splash of cream or milk (optional) – This can be added to the glaze for a creamier texture, though it’s not necessary.

How to Assemble Nutella Cinnamon Rolls

Making Nutella Cinnamon Rolls is a fun and satisfying process! Each step builds anticipation for that first gooey bite. Follow these detailed instructions for sweet, delicious results!

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your rolls bake evenly and develop that golden-brown exterior.
Spray a 9- or 10-inch pie plate or a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is an important step, as it allows for easy removal of the rolls after baking.
Open the can of refrigerated crescent rolls. Carefully unwrap the dough, and if you find two triangles stuck together, keep them that way. This will help create a thicker roll.
Arrange the triangles or rectangles on a clean counter or work surface in one long row. Make sure to press the seams together, overlapping them slightly to close any gaps.
Generously spread Nutella over the entire surface of the dough, leaving about a ½-inch margin around the edges. This will ensure that every bite is filled with that delightful hazelnut goodness.
Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the Nutella. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal taste!
Starting from the short side, roll up the dough tightly into a log. You want to make sure it’s compact to maintain a good shape during baking.
Cut the log into 8 equal-sized pieces using a sharp knife or a bench scraper. A serrated knife works well for this task, allowing you to slice through the dough without compressing it.
Place the pieces into the prepared pan, noting that there will be some gaps between them; this is fine!
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls have puffed and are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them gooey and soft.
While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the confectioners’ sugar, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. If desired, add a splash of cream or milk to achieve your preferred consistency.
Once the rolls are out of the oven, you can glaze them immediately while they’re hot, allowing the glaze to melt into all the crevices, or wait a bit until they cool slightly.
Serve your Nutella Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best experience! They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Things Worth Knowing

Always preheat your oven for even baking. This ensures that the rolls rise correctly and have the perfect texture.
Do not overbake! The key to gooey rolls is to take them out of the oven as soon as they start to turn golden.
For a richer flavor, try browning the butter before adding it to the filling.
If you’re making these for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe! They disappear quickly!

Helpful Notes about Nutella Cinnamon Rolls

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Nutella Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time. Follow these guidelines for the best results!

Storage: Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They will stay soft and delicious.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked rolls before they go into the oven. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking as directed.
Pairing: These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for breakfast or as an afternoon treat.
Serving suggestion: Dust the rolls with additional confectioners’ sugar before serving for a lovely presentation.
Flavor variations: Consider adding chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them overnight, then bake in the morning for fresh, warm rolls.

Serving Options for Nutella Cinnamon Rolls

When it comes to serving your Nutella Cinnamon Rolls, there are numerous delightful ways to enjoy them. Here are some great serving options:

Breakfast treat: Serve warm rolls as a special breakfast for family gatherings or weekend brunches, accompanied by fresh fruit.
Afternoon snack: Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, these rolls make for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Dessert option: Serve as dessert by drizzling warm glaze on top or dusting with confectioners’ sugar for an elegant touch.
Sharing with guests: These rolls are fantastic to bring to potlucks, parties or casual get-togethers; everyone loves a sweet treat!
Seasonal flavors: Consider adding festive touches for holidays, such as a sprinkle of nutmeg or incorporating pumpkin spice for fall celebrations.
Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

FAQ

Yes! You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator overnight. Just cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and let them rise for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked rolls in the morning with minimal effort!

To keep your leftover Nutella cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can add a delightful crunch to your Nutella cinnamon rolls. Simply sprinkle them on top of the Nutella before rolling up the dough. This adds texture and an extra layer of flavor, making them even more delicious!

For the best glaze, make sure to mix the confectioners’ sugar and melted butter until smooth. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add a splash of cream or milk to achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven, allowing it to melt into the crevices for a wonderfully sweet finish. Alternatively, you can wait for the rolls to cool slightly and spread the glaze on with a spatula for a thicker application.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nutella Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with an irresistible texture. They are perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or even desserts, making them incredibly versatile. I encourage you to try making these rolls in your kitchen and experience the joy they bring. You won’t regret indulging in this sweet, gooey goodness, and I’m sure it will become a beloved recipe in your household!