Name: Nutella Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 225 g whole milk; 50 g fresh yeast (or 2 packs dry yeast); 560-570 g all-purpose flour; 2 eggs; 50 g granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cardamom; 100 g butter (room temperature); 200 g Nutella; 50 g chocolate chips; 35 g butter (cold, room temperature); 35 g Nutella; 35 g cream cheese; 125 g powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·4 from 280 reviews

If you have a soft spot for warm, sweet treats with just the right amount of gooey chocolate goodness, then you are going to absolutely adore this Nutella Rolls Recipe. These rolls come out perfectly fluffy, with layers of rich Nutella and chocolate chips rolled up inside a tender dough that is lightly spiced with cardamom for an unexpected twist. Topped off with a luscious Nutella cream cheese frosting, these rolls are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire, ideal for special breakfasts, cozy afternoon snacks, or any time you crave a little comfort in pastry form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six soft cinnamon rolls inside a white baking pan lined with white parchment paper. Each roll has two layers: a light beige fluffy dough base with swirls of dark brown cinnamon filling, topped with a smooth light brown frosting spread thickly on top. There are small, round dark chocolate chips scattered on the frosting of each roll. One roll is missing from the bottom right corner, leaving visible cinnamon residue on the paper. In the background, there is a small white bowl filled with dark chocolate chips on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Putting together this Nutella Rolls Recipe is delightfully straightforward, relying on simple, everyday ingredients that each bring their own magic. From the warm milk that activates the yeast to the aromatic cardamom that adds subtle warmth, every component is essential to creating these irresistible pastries.

225 g whole milk: Lukewarm milk helps activate the yeast and forms the base of a soft dough.
50 g fresh yeast (or 2 packs dry yeast): The key to a perfectly risen roll with fluffy texture.
560-570 g all-purpose flour: Provides structure and chewiness to the dough.
2 eggs: Adds richness and helps with dough elasticity.
50 g granulated sugar: Balances flavors and helps with browning.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy notes.
1 tsp cardamom: Introduces a gentle, fragrant spice that makes these rolls so special.
100 g butter (room temperature): Adds tenderness and a luxurious crumb.
200 g Nutella: The star ingredient, giving a rich and creamy chocolate-hazelnut swirl.
50 g chocolate chips: For gooey pockets of melted chocolate.
35 g butter (cold, room temperature): Used in the frosting for a creamy finish.
35 g Nutella: Mixed into the frosting for that extra Nutella punch.
35 g cream cheese: Brings tang and richness to the frosting.
125 g powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the frosting.

How to Make Nutella Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by heating the milk until it’s lukewarm, around 37ºC, which is just perfect for activating your fresh or dry yeast. Crumble your fresh yeast into the mixing bowl, pour the warm milk over it, and stir gently until the yeast dissolves. This initial step is crucial for creating that airy, soft dough we all love.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients

Add sugar, flour, eggs, salt, and cardamom to the yeast mixture. Using a dough hook on medium speed, mix for about three minutes to combine everything nicely. Then, while keeping the mixer on medium, slowly add the room temperature butter piece by piece. Once the butter is fully incorporated, increase the speed to high and mix for an additional 6 to 7 minutes until you have a smooth dough that pulls away cleanly from the bowl.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to your countertop and give it a quick knead to form a neat loaf. Place it in a clean bowl covered with cling film and a tea towel, then set it in a warm spot to rise for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s doubled in size — this rise gives the rolls their light and fluffy character.

Step 4: Shape the Nutella Rolls

After the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about 5mm thick. Spread a generous layer of Nutella evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the chocolate chips on top for little bursts of melted chocolate in each bite. Roll the dough tightly into a log, trimming any uneven ends with dental floss or a serrated knife.

Step 5: Cut and Second Rise

Cut the log into 12 even rolls and arrange them in a parchment-lined 23×33 cm baking tray. Cover with cling film and let them rise again for 30 minutes on the counter. This second rise allows the rolls to puff up perfectly, promising a light and tender crumb once baked.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 190ºC (conventional) while the rolls finish their second rise. Bake them for 22-25 minutes on the second lowest rack. Your kitchen will fill with the most irresistible aroma, and the rolls will come out lightly golden brown — a sign that they are beautifully baked and ready to be transformed with frosting.

Step 7: Make the Nutella Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls cool for about 15-20 minutes, prepare your frosting. If you’re in Europe, wrap cream cheese in paper towels to drain excess moisture for a thicker frosting. Beat the cold butter and Nutella together until creamy, then add cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth. Sift in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending everything to a luscious, spreadable frosting that’s rich and velvety.

Step 8: Frost and Finish

Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls with a spoon, letting it melt slightly into the crevices. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for that perfect finishing touch. Serve them up immediately and watch how quickly these irresistible Nutella rolls disappear!

How to Serve Nutella Rolls Recipe

A white plate holds two thick slices of French toast that have a golden-brown, slightly charred surface with visible dark spots of melted chocolate embedded throughout. Each slice is thick and fluffy, showing a soft, light yellow inside. On the sides and edges, there is a swirl of light brown chocolate mousse or spread with a creamy, smooth texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Nutella Rolls Recipe even more, consider sprinkling some chopped hazelnuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top after frosting. These simple touches add not only a bit of crunch but also a beautiful presentation that invites eager hands to dive right in.

Side Dishes

Serve these warm, gooey rolls alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate for an indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to balance out their richness and make your snack or breakfast feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your Nutella rolls into a shareable pull-apart bread by arranging the rolls close together in a circular pan. You can also drizzle caramel or a simple vanilla glaze on top for added sweetness and elegance. These presentation ideas make the rolls perfect for brunches, parties, or cozy family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Nutella rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days without losing their softness. Keep the frosting covered separately and add just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze baked rolls by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and warm them slightly for that fresh-baked feel.

Reheating

To reheat, place rolls in a preheated oven at 160ºC for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can change the texture and make the frosting overly soft or runny.

FAQs

Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast in this Nutella Rolls Recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer dry yeast, use two packs as suggested. Just remember to let it bloom in the warm milk following the package instructions before mixing it into the dough.

Is cardamom necessary in the dough?

Cardamom adds a unique aromatic flavor that complements the Nutella wonderfully, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can omit it or substitute with a pinch of cinnamon for a different but still delightful flavor profile.

How can I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

The key is using cream cheese that is well-drained of excess moisture and cold butter. Also, make sure to sift powdered sugar for a smooth texture. If your frosting is too soft, simply refrigerate it briefly before spreading.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise once, then refrigerate it covered. The next day, take it out to roll and shape your Nutella rolls, let them rise again, and bake as directed.

What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

No worries at all! You can chop up chocolate bars or use Nutella dollops instead for melting pockets of chocolate inside your rolls. Both alternatives work beautifully and add extra gooeyness.

Final Thoughts

You truly cannot go wrong with this Nutella Rolls Recipe—it combines the comfort of homemade bread with the irresistible charm of chocolate and hazelnut flavors in every bite. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dessert, or just because, these rolls promise smiles and happy bellies. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to indulgence to share with friends and family time and again.