Nutella Rolls with Whipped Frosting

There’s something about freshly baked rolls that fills the kitchen with a sense of warmth and comfort. Now imagine that soft, pillowy dough swirled with creamy Nutella and finished with a cloud of whipped frosting. That’s what these Nutella Rolls bring to the table—an indulgent treat that feels like a hug in dessert form. The aroma alone is enough to make you weak in the knees, and once you take that first bite, the world slows down just a little.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of those cozy weekend mornings when you crave something special but don’t want the fuss of a bakery trip. I wanted something rich yet comforting, and Nutella was the obvious answer. It adds that deep hazelnut-chocolate flavor that turns a simple dough into something truly magical. The whipped frosting was a happy afterthought that became essential—it adds the perfect airy sweetness that melts right into the warm rolls.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Nutella, originally called “Pasta Gianduja,” was created in Italy in the 1940s. It was invented as a way to stretch limited supplies of chocolate by blending it with hazelnuts. Over time, it became the creamy, dreamy spread we all know and love. The idea of using it in sweet rolls came later, inspired by the classic cinnamon roll concept but with a European twist. These Nutella Rolls have quickly become a global favorite for their simplicity and decadent flavor.

Why You’ll Love Nutella Rolls with Whipped Frosting

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these rolls adapt to any occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and a single jar of Nutella to make a bakery-worthy treat.
Quick and Easy: No complicated steps, and the dough comes together beautifully.
Customizable: Add crushed nuts, fruit, or extra cocoa for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from kids to adults will fall in love with these gooey swirls.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep them the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Great for Leftovers: They reheat like a dream—soft and melty again with just a few seconds in the microwave.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To get the best out of these rolls, it’s all about timing and texture.

1. Always warm your milk slightly—it helps activate the yeast.
2. Roll your dough evenly so every piece bakes at the same rate.
3. Don’t overfill with Nutella; too much can cause leaks during baking.
4. Let them rise in a warm, draft-free spot for fluffy perfection.
5. Frost while warm so the whipped frosting melts just slightly into the top.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure your kitchen is ready for baking magic.

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch pan works best for even baking.
• Electric Mixer: For whipping the frosting until it’s light and airy.
• Spatula: Helps spread the Nutella smoothly without tearing the dough.

Ingredients in Nutella Rolls with Whipped Frosting

The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple and harmonious the ingredients are. Each one has its purpose and together they create soft, chocolatey bliss.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 3 ½ cups, forms the soft structure of the rolls.
2. Instant Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons, helps the dough rise and stay fluffy.
3. Warm Milk: 1 cup, activates the yeast and softens the dough.
4. Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup, adds just the right touch of sweetness.
5. Salt: ½ teaspoon, balances the flavors perfectly.
6. Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup melted, keeps the dough tender and rich.
7. Eggs: 2 large, add structure and richness.
8. Nutella: ¾ cup, the star filling that makes these rolls irresistible.
9. Heavy Cream: 1 cup, for the whipped frosting.
10. Powdered Sugar: 2 tablespoons, to sweeten the frosting lightly.
11. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, brings the frosting to life with aroma and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can still make these even if you’re missing a few ingredients.

• Nutella: Use any chocolate hazelnut or cocoa-almond spread.
• Butter: Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Milk: Almond or oat milk works beautifully for a lighter version.
• Heavy Cream: Use coconut cream for a tropical twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Nutella: This creamy blend of roasted hazelnuts and cocoa gives the rolls their signature flavor and that irresistible swirl of chocolatey goodness.
Heavy Cream: When whipped, it creates that soft, cloud-like topping that complements the rich Nutella without overpowering it.

Instructions for Making Nutella Rolls with Whipped Frosting

Now let’s bring everything together step by step so your kitchen smells like pure heaven.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Add melted butter and eggs, then slowly mix in flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
4. Assemble the Dish: Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread Nutella evenly, and gently roll it up. Slice into 12 rolls and arrange them in your baking dish.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffy.
6. Finishing Touches: While the rolls bake, whip the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Spread the whipped frosting over warm rolls and let it melt slightly before serving. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These rolls are a dream in every bite. The outer layers are lightly crisp while the inside stays buttery soft. The Nutella melts into gooey ribbons of chocolate, and the frosting adds a light, airy sweetness that balances the richness perfectly. Each bite feels like soft clouds of chocolate and cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few little secrets that make all the difference:

• Use room temperature ingredients for the dough—it helps them blend evenly.
• If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in extra flour a tablespoon at a time.
• Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before frosting so it melts just right.

What to Avoid

Even simple recipes have a few pitfalls to dodge.

• Don’t use hot milk or you’ll kill the yeast.
• Avoid rolling the dough too tightly—it needs room to expand.
• Never overbake, as it can dry out the rolls.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 rolls
Calories per serving: Approximately 320
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough the night before, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for a warm breakfast treat. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for that just-baked softness.

How to Serve Nutella Rolls with Whipped Frosting

Serve these rolls slightly warm with a dusting of cocoa powder or chopped hazelnuts on top. They pair beautifully with a hot cappuccino or a cold glass of milk. For special occasions, drizzle with extra Nutella for that bakery finish.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you happen to have any leftovers (rare, but it happens):

• Turn them into a bread pudding by layering with custard and baking.
• Slice them and make French toast rolls for breakfast.
• Crumble and use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt parfaits.

Additional Tips

Keep your Nutella at room temperature for easy spreading. Always line your baking dish with parchment paper if you want easy cleanup. And if you want extra shine, brush the baked rolls lightly with melted butter before frosting.

Make It a Showstopper

Present them on a white ceramic platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few scattered hazelnuts. Add a swirl of extra whipped cream on the side—it gives that café-style elegance.

Variations to Try

1. Nutella Banana Rolls: Add thin banana slices before rolling.
2. Mocha Nutella Rolls: Mix espresso powder into the dough.
3. Caramel Swirl Rolls: Drizzle caramel over the Nutella layer.
4. Berry Delight: Add a spoonful of raspberry jam for tangy contrast.
5. Mini Nutella Bites: Cut smaller rolls for bite-sized party treats.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I freeze Nutella Rolls?
A1: Yes, freeze them after baking and cooling. Reheat when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use store-bought dough?
A2: Absolutely, just roll it out, spread the Nutella, and follow the rest of the steps.

Q3: How long do these stay fresh?
A3: They taste best within 2 days, but can last up to 4 if refrigerated.

Q4: Can I skip the frosting?
A4: You can, but the whipped frosting adds a lovely finish.

Q5: How can I make them vegan?
A5: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Q6: What if I don’t have yeast?
A6: Try using self-rising flour and a bit of baking powder for a quick version.

Q7: Can I add nuts or fruit inside?
A7: Yes, chopped hazelnuts or strawberries pair wonderfully with Nutella.

Q8: Why did my dough not rise?
A8: Your yeast may have expired or the milk was too hot.

Q9: Can I make these gluten-free?
A9: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q10: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A10: Microwave for 15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Conclusion

Warm, soft, and bursting with Nutella goodness, these rolls are pure comfort in every bite. The whipped frosting takes them from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for brunch, dessert, or a sweet morning treat, these Nutella Rolls will quickly become your new favorite indulgence. Trust me, they’re worth every single bite.

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