Name: Nutella Cinnamon Toast Rolls: The Ultimate Breakfast Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 1 package (13.8 ounces) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing); 1/2 cup Nutella (or other hazelnut spread); 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional, for topping); 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Nutella cinnamon toast rolls: prepare to meet your new favorite breakfast (or dessert!). Imagine biting into warm, fluffy rolls, each layer swirled with the irresistible combination of rich Nutella and fragrant cinnamon. It's a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds, guaranteed.

While cinnamon rolls themselves have a long and delicious history, tracing back to Sweden and other parts of Northern Europe, this particular twist is a modern marvel. The addition of Nutella, that beloved hazelnut-chocolate spread, elevates the classic to a whole new level of indulgence. It's a fusion of tradition and innovation that's simply irresistible.

What makes these Nutella cinnamon toast rolls so incredibly popular? It's the perfect balance of comfort and decadence. The soft, pillowy dough provides a comforting base, while the Nutella and cinnamon filling delivers a burst of sweetness and warmth. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make! Whether you're looking for a special treat for a weekend brunch or a quick and satisfying dessert, these rolls are sure to please. The gooey, chocolatey, cinnamon-spiced filling is what makes this recipe so special. Get ready to experience pure bliss with every bite!

Ingredients:

1 package (13.8 ounces) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing)
1/2 cup Nutella (or other hazelnut spread)
1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking. This is crucial for ensuring the rolls cook through without burning on the bottom.
Prepare your baking pan. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. You can use cooking spray, butter, or even line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper is especially helpful if you're worried about the rolls sticking.
Open the cinnamon roll dough. Carefully open the package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough. Be prepared for a little "pop!" as the pressure releases. Unroll the dough onto a lightly floured surface. This will prevent it from sticking and make it easier to work with.
Spread the Nutella. Using a spatula or knife, evenly spread the Nutella over the entire surface of the unrolled cinnamon roll dough. Make sure to get it all the way to the edges. A thin, even layer is best, so the rolls aren't overly sweet. If your Nutella is a bit stiff, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it up.
Melt the butter and mix with cinnamon. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and ground cinnamon. Mix well to create a cinnamon-butter mixture.
Brush with cinnamon-butter. Brush the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the Nutella-covered dough. This adds an extra layer of cinnamon flavor and helps the rolls brown beautifully in the oven.
Roll up the dough. Starting from one end, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as even as possible to ensure uniform slices. A tight roll will also help prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
Slice the rolls. Using a sharp knife or dental floss (yes, dental floss!), slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls. Dental floss is a great trick for clean cuts without squishing the dough. Simply slide the floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to slice.
Arrange in the baking pan. Place the sliced rolls in the prepared baking pan, spacing them evenly apart. This allows them to rise and bake properly.

Baking the Nutella Cinnamon Rolls:

Bake the rolls. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The tops should be nicely browned, and the center rolls should be set. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with aluminum foil.
Check for doneness. To check if the rolls are done, insert a toothpick into the center of one of the rolls. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they're ready.
Cool slightly. Remove the baking pan from the oven and let the rolls cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. This allows them to set slightly before frosting.

Frosting and Finishing Touches:

Prepare the icing. While the rolls are cooling, prepare the icing that came with the cinnamon roll dough. Usually, this involves snipping the corner of the icing packet and squeezing it into a bowl. If the icing is too thick, you can add a teaspoon or two of milk to thin it out.
Frost the rolls. Drizzle the icing evenly over the warm cinnamon rolls. You can use a spoon, fork, or the icing packet itself to apply the frosting.
Add toppings (optional). If desired, sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts over the frosted rolls. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Other topping options include chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of extra Nutella.
Serve and enjoy! Serve the Nutella cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Tips and Variations:

Make it ahead: You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Add cream cheese frosting: For a richer frosting, try making a cream cheese frosting. Combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Use different nuts: Instead of hazelnuts, try using pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
Add chocolate chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the Nutella before rolling up the dough for an extra chocolatey treat.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon-butter mixture for a warmer, spicier flavor.
Caramel drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce after frosting for a decadent treat.
Espresso powder: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the Nutella for a mocha flavor.

Troubleshooting:

Rolls are browning too quickly: If the tops of the rolls are browning too quickly, loosely tent the pan with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Rolls are not cooking through: If the rolls are not cooking through in the center, bake them for a few extra minutes. You can also lower the oven temperature slightly.
Icing is too thick: If the icing is too thick, add a teaspoon or two of milk to thin it out.
Rolls are sticking to the pan: Make sure to grease the baking pan well or line it with parchment paper.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per roll):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: 300-350
Fat: 15-20g
Saturated Fat: 8-10g
Cholesterol: 20-30mg
Sodium: 200-250mg
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Sugar: 20-25g
Protein: 3-5g

Why this recipe works:

This recipe is a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, elevating them with the rich, nutty flavor of Nutella. The combination of cinnamon, butter, and Nutella creates a truly irresistible treat. The refrigerated cinnamon roll dough makes it quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. The optional toppings add a touch of elegance and allow for customization to suit your preferences. The detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips ensure that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results every time. The balance of flavors and textures, from the soft, fluffy rolls to the creamy Nutella filling and the crunchy hazelnuts (if using), makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Nutella cinnamon toast rolls are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of warm, fluffy bread, gooey Nutella, and that classic cinnamon spice is simply irresistible. It's the kind of treat that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book and a steaming mug of coffee. But beyond just being delicious, this recipe is a must-try because it's incredibly easy and quick to make. We're talking minimal effort for maximum reward, which is always a win in my book! Forget spending hours in the kitchen; you can whip up a batch of these delightful rolls in under an hour, making them perfect for a last-minute brunch, a sweet afternoon snack, or even a fun baking project with the kids. But the best part? The possibilities are endless! While I'm a huge fan of the classic Nutella cinnamon combination, feel free to get creative and experiment with different fillings and toppings. Imagine swapping the Nutella for peanut butter and adding a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for a nutty twist. Or how about using a different kind of spread, like biscoff cookie butter or even a homemade fruit jam? You could also add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra crunch and flavor. For a truly decadent treat, drizzle the warm rolls with a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk. Serving suggestions? Oh, I have plenty! These Nutella cinnamon toast rolls are amazing on their own, but they also pair perfectly with a variety of other dishes. Serve them alongside a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon for a complete and satisfying breakfast. Or, enjoy them as a dessert after a light lunch or dinner. They're also a great addition to any brunch spread, and they're sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. For a truly indulgent experience, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. And don't forget the coffee! A hot cup of coffee or tea is the perfect complement to these sweet and comforting rolls. Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it's a simple, delicious, and versatile treat that's sure to bring a smile to your face. It's the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. And with so many different variations to choose from, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your own taste preferences. Plus, let's be honest, who can resist the allure of warm, gooey, cinnamon-spiced goodness? So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these amazing Nutella cinnamon toast rolls. I promise you won't regret it! And when you do, please, please, please share your experience with me! I'd love to hear what you think of the recipe, what variations you tried, and how you served them. Tag me in your photos on social media, leave a comment below, or send me an email. I can't wait to see your creations! Happy baking! I am confident that this recipe will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Enjoy!