Save My neighbor Sarah brought these over last winter when I was too sick to grocery shop, and I honestly thought she had spent hours at a fancy bakery. The way the Nutella gets all warm and gooey while the outside turns perfectly crispy feels like something you would order at a Parisian café, not something that takes minutes to throw together.
I made these for my kids sleepover last month when I completely forgot about dessert until eight at night. You should have seen their faces when I pulled out these warm chocolatey pastries ten minutes later, like I had secretly been planning it all along.
Ingredients
- 4 store bought croissants: Day old croissants actually work beautifully here since the air fryer revitalizes them perfectly
- 1/2 cup Nutella: Let it sit at room temperature for five minutes beforehand and it spreads so much easier without tearing the delicate croissant layers
- 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts or powdered sugar: The hazelnuts add this incredible crunch that plays so nicely with the smooth chocolate filling
Instructions
- Get your air fryer ready:
- Preheat to 350°F so the croissants start crisping the second they hit the basket
- Prep each croissant:
- Slice horizontally but leave that back edge intact like a book, then spread about two tablespoons of Nutella inside each one
- Air fry to perfection:
- Cook for four to five minutes until golden brown and you can see the chocolate bubbling through the cuts
- Add the finishing touches:
- Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts or dust with powdered sugar while still warm so it sticks beautifully
Save These became my Sunday morning ritual during finals week in college, a little reward that made the library sessions somehow more bearable. Something about warm chocolate and flaky pastry makes even the most stressful day feel a little gentler.
Making Ahead
You can assemble the croissants the night before and keep them covered in the refrigerator, then just pop them in the air fryer when you are ready. The cold air actually helps them puff up even more dramatically as they cook.
Customization Ideas
Sometimes I tuck a few banana slices inside before air frying, or add a layer of raspberry jam underneath the Nutella for this chocolate fruit combination that tastes absolutely gourmet. A pinch of sea salt on top cuts through the sweetness beautifully too.
Serving Suggestions
These shine brightest when served immediately while the chocolate is still molten and the exterior is at maximum crispiness. I like to set up a little DIY topping bar with crushed pistachios, shredded coconut, and mini chocolate chips so everyone can customize their own.
- Let them cool for at least two minutes before biting or you will burn your tongue on the hot filling
- A cup of strong coffee or cold milk on the side balances the richness perfectly
- Leftovers reheat surprisingly well at 300°F for just two minutes to refresh the texture
Save Some recipes save time, but this one saves your reputation when you need something impressive in a pinch.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh croissants instead of store-bought?
Yes, fresh croissants work well and may provide an even flakier texture, enhancing the overall taste.
- → What is the best temperature to air fry these croissants?
Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden crust without burning.
- → Are there any recommended toppings?
Chopped hazelnuts and a light dusting of powdered sugar add texture and a sweet finish, complementing the Nutella filling.
- → Can I add fruit inside before air frying?
Yes, sliced bananas or strawberries can be added for additional flavor and freshness.
- → Is it possible to bake these without an air fryer?
Absolutely, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until the croissants are golden and the filling is warm.