Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Surprise

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Surprise
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 package of pre-cooked croissant dough; 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional); Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

I absolutely love creating unexpected treats, and these Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Surprises are a delightful way to satisfy both my sweet tooth and my love for flaky pastries. Each bite is a perfect blend of buttery croissant and rich chocolate hazelnut filling. It’s a treat that elevates any breakfast or dessert table, and honestly, they’re so easy to make that I often whip them up on weekends when I have a little extra time to indulge. Let’s dive into this delicious experience together!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:06:28.753Z

When I first made these Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Surprises, I was amazed at how the inside melted away to reveal a luscious, gooey filling. I experimented with different fillings, but the richness of chocolate paired with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts was a clear winner. The moment I pulled them out of the oven and saw those golden-brown layers, I knew I had stumbled on something special.

Additionally, I learned that using a good quality chocolate hazelnut spread makes all the difference in flavor. I suggest spreading the filling just enough to avoid it leaking out during baking. Trust me, once you take a bite of these, you'll understand why they are now a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flaky, buttery croissant contrasted with creamy hazelnut chocolate
Easy to prepare, perfect for breakfast or dessert
Impressive enough to wow your guests at any gathering

Mastering the Croissant Dough

Using pre-cooked croissant dough is a game changer, especially when time is of the essence. The layers of dough give you that flaky texture without needing to familiarize yourself with the intricacies of making croissant dough from scratch. Just ensure that when you unroll it, you do so gently to avoid tearing, which can affect how they rise and bake. If slightly torn, you can pinch the edges back together; they will still puff up beautifully during baking.

Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the croissants inside. An accurate oven temperature is crucial to achieving the perfect golden-brown exterior. If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking process to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them as the bake time approaches the 12-minute mark, as each oven varies slightly in heat efficiency.

Elevating the Filling

The chocolate hazelnut spread is the star of this pastry, offering a luscious flavor that pairs well with the buttery croissant. If you're feeling adventurous, try using a flavored chocolate spread, like white chocolate or caramel, for a unique twist. Additionally, consider substituting almond butter for a nut-free version or a different nut spread if allergies are a concern—just make sure the consistency remains similar so the croissants can roll without difficulty.

Adding chopped hazelnuts not only enhances the flavor but provides a delightful crunch. If you want to toast them for additional depth, simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant. This extra step not only enhances their taste but also brings out the natural oils, making them even more aromatic when combined with the chocolate hazelnut filling.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven; however, I understand that leftovers happen. Store any uneaten croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until heated through and crispy.

For serving, these croissants can shine on their own, but they pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. Drizzling melted chocolate or a light caramel sauce over the top will also elevate them—perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. Don’t hesitate to get creative with how you present them; a sprinkle of sea salt can also amplify the sweet and salty flavors, making each bite irresistible.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your own Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Surprises:

Ingredients

1 package of pre-cooked croissant dough
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1 egg (for egg wash)
1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Surprises:

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a clean surface, unroll the croissant dough and separate the triangles.

Fill the Croissants

Spread about a tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread onto each triangle. If desired, add a small amount of chopped hazelnuts on top of the spread for extra crunch.

Roll and Shape

Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle to form a croissant shape. Place them seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.

Egg Wash and Bake

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the croissants. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, consider mixing a dash of espresso powder into the chocolate hazelnut spread before filling. It enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully!

Perfecting the Rolling Technique

When rolling the croissant dough, it’s important not to overfill each triangle. A tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread is the perfect amount to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking. Make sure to start rolling from the wider edge, keeping the filling tightly wrapped. This will help maintain the classic crescent shape and ensure that the croissants rise properly in the oven.

As you roll, try to keep an even tension throughout; this will contribute to the layers forming as they bake. If the dough feels too soft and difficult to handle, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up—it should become more manageable without losing its flaky structure.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your croissants don’t rise as expected, it could be due to under-proofing. After rolling, let the croissants sit in a warm spot for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This allows the yeast to activate, helping them puff up beautifully in the oven. If ever you find the tops overly browned before the insides are cooked, cover them loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

For those who find chocolate hazelnut spread too sweet, you can balance the flavor by adding a pinch of sea salt into the spread before applying it to the croissants. This small adjustment can enhance the overall flavor profile, making for a more sophisticated treat that is less cloying and more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these croissants ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them the day before and refrigerate before baking. Just ensure to let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking.

→ What can I use instead of chocolate hazelnut spread?

You can use almond butter, peanut butter, or any preferred chocolate spread as an alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these croissants?

Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped but unbaked croissants. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.