Nutella Chocolate Pillowy Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than the Nutella Chocolate Pillowy Rolls Recipe. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls enveloping a rich, creamy Nutella filling speckled with melty chocolate chips, all baked to a golden perfection that makes every bite pure joy. This recipe is a perfect treat for brunch, afternoon tea, or anytime you want a sweet escape with minimal fuss. From the tender dough to the luscious chocolate center, each component works harmoniously to deliver a delightfully indulgent experience that will quickly become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these irresistible rolls lies in a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully. Each item plays its part, whether providing the delicate structure of the dough or contributing to the irresistible rich texture and warm color of the final rolls.

• Warm water (3½ tablespoons): Activates the yeast and helps create that soft dough texture.
• Active dry yeast (1 teaspoon): The secret to fluffy, risen rolls with beautiful volume.
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon + ¼ cup): Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough and helps the yeast bloom perfectly.
• Large egg (1): Gives the dough structure and richness.
• Milk (3½ tablespoons): Keeps the dough moist and tender for those pillowy results.
• Soft butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base of the dough, providing structure and that satisfying chew.
• Nutella (⅓ cup): The star ingredient that brings a luscious hazelnut and chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate chips (¼ cup): Surprise pockets of melty chocolate inside the rolls.
• Heavy cream (a splash): Keeps the rolls extra moist as they bake in the pan.
• Mini chocolate chips (3 tablespoons): A cute finishing touch that adds bursts of chocolate on top.

How to Make Nutella Chocolate Pillowy Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast mixture

Start by mixing the warm water with the active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let this sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, signaling the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your dough.

Step 2: Prepare the dry ingredients

While the yeast mixture rests, whisk together the all-purpose flour and the remaining ¼ cup sugar. If you’re using instant yeast instead of active dry, this is the moment to add it directly to the dry mix, allowing for an even distribution throughout your dough.

Step 3: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Next, add the milk, egg, softened butter, and your bubbly yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms, setting the stage for kneading and developing that iconic elasticity.

Step 4: Knead the dough to perfection

Kneading is where the magic happens. Whether by hand or mixer, knead the dough for 10 to 15 minutes until it transforms into a smooth, elastic ball. This step builds gluten, giving your rolls their signature pillowy texture.

Step 5: Let the dough rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 90 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This time lets the dough become airy and soft, perfect for rolling.

Step 6: Roll out and fill with Nutella and chocolate chips

After rising, roll your dough out to approximately ¼ inch thickness. Spread a generous layer of Nutella over the surface, then sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly on top. This filling is what makes the Nutella Chocolate Pillowy Rolls Recipe so decadently unforgettable.

Step 7: Shape and slice the rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, making sure the filling stays inside. Using floss or kitchen string, slice the log into six equal rolls. This technique helps keep the rolls uniformly shaped and perfect for even baking.

Step 8: Prepare for the final rise

Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, then add a splash of heavy cream to the bottom—this little trick keeps the rolls wonderfully moist as they bake. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips atop each roll for an extra chocolatey finish. Cover and let the rolls rest for an additional 30 minutes to puff up before baking.

Step 9: Bake to golden perfection

Pop the rolls into a preheated oven set to 374°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 17 minutes. The rolls will turn a stunning golden brown, their irresistible aroma filling your kitchen and signaling they’re ready to enjoy.

Step 10: Optional finishing touch

For an extra rich finish, brush the warm rolls with melted butter right out of the oven. Serve them warm and gooey, allowing the Nutella and chocolate chips to be at their meltiest and most delightful.

How to Serve Nutella Chocolate Pillowy Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your rolls with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra sweetness. Fresh berries or chopped hazelnuts add a lovely contrast in texture and a burst of freshness to balance the rich Nutella.

Side Dishes

Pair these luscious rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. They also shine when served alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, making your snack time feel truly special.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch gatherings, serve the rolls on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of Nutella and chocolate chips for dipping. You can also turn them into mini sandwiches by gently pulling apart the rolls and adding sliced strawberries or banana for a fruity surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh for up to 2 days. For best taste, bring them to room temperature or warm briefly before serving to recapture that pillowy softness.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you want a sweet treat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

Rewarm the rolls in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back their fresh-baked warmth and melty Nutella goodness, as if they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! If you use instant yeast, you can add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in warm water first. This can even speed up your preparation slightly.

Is it necessary to use both chocolate chips and mini chocolate chips?

While it’s not mandatory, the combination of regular and mini chocolate chips creates lovely pockets of gooey chocolate inside and adds a delightful texture and look on top of the rolls.

Can I substitute Nutella with another spread?

Feel free to swap Nutella for other chocolate hazelnut spreads or even peanut butter for a different but still delicious flavor twist. Just keep in mind that Nutella’s creamy texture helps keep the rolls moist.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the baking pan?

You can substitute heavy cream with milk or simply omit it, though the cream adds moisture that makes the bottoms of the rolls especially tender and luxurious.

How can I make the rolls vegan-friendly?

To veganize this recipe, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and swap the egg for a flax egg or a similar egg substitute. Also, choose dairy-free Nutella alternatives to keep that classic flavor vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Nutella Chocolate Pillowy Rolls Recipe that makes it a must-try for anyone who loves cozy, comforting baked goods with a chocolatey punch. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just someone who adores sweets, these rolls are simple enough to make and joyful enough to share. Go ahead and treat yourself to this warm, indulgent delight—you deserve every melt-in-your-mouth bite!

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