These Chocolate Nutella Yeast Rolls with Orange Zest and Hazelnuts are soft, pillowy swirls of lightly sweetened dough filled with creamy Nutella, toasted sesame seeds, crunchy hazelnuts, and bright orange zest. Baked until golden and tender, they’re a luxurious treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting dessert with coffee or tea.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These rolls strike the perfect balance between indulgence and sophistication. The yeasted dough is soft and aromatic, while the Nutella adds rich, chocolatey depth. Toasted hazelnuts and sesame seeds bring texture and nutty warmth, and the orange zest lifts the entire flavor profile with a hint of citrus. They’re simple to prepare, make a beautiful presentation, and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or slightly warmed the next day.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough
- all-purpose flour
- instant dry yeast
- sugar
- salt
- olive oil
- filtered water
For the Filling
- Nutella (softened)
- blanched hazelnuts, chopped
- toasted sesame seeds
- orange zest
directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add the olive oil and filtered water. Mix and knead until a soft, elastic dough forms—this takes about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll the risen dough into a rectangle, approximately 20 x 30 cm in size.
- Spread a layer of softened Nutella evenly over the surface of the dough.
- Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts, toasted sesame seeds, and orange zest evenly over the Nutella.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 6–8 equal rolls.
- Arrange the rolls cut-side up on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Calories: Approximately 260 kcal per roll
Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit hazelnuts and increase sesame seeds or add shredded coconut.
- Citrus Twist: Try lemon or mandarin zest for a different citrus profile.
- Spiced Filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the Nutella for a warming touch.
- Glaze Option: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze or melted chocolate after baking.
- Mini Rolls: Cut into 10–12 smaller rolls for bite-sized portions.
storage/reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Warm individual rolls in a microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh their texture.
FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
What kind of yeast should I use?
Instant dry yeast works best for this recipe and does not require proofing.
Can I use a different chocolate spread?
Yes, other chocolate-hazelnut spreads or homemade versions can be substituted.
How do I keep the Nutella from hardening?
Make sure Nutella is at room temperature before spreading. Avoid overbaking, which can dry the filling.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, freeze baked and cooled rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, chopped dark chocolate, pistachios, or a dusting of powdered sugar can be added after baking.
Why is my dough not rising?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the rising environment is warm enough (ideally around 75–80°F or 24–27°C).
Can I make this without sesame seeds?
Yes, they can be omitted or replaced with flax seeds or crushed nuts.
Are these rolls very sweet?
They are moderately sweet from the Nutella and orange zest, without additional sugar in the filling.
What should I serve with them?
They pair wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
Conclusion
Chocolate Nutella Yeast Rolls with Orange Zest and Hazelnuts offer the ideal combination of soft, fluffy texture and rich, indulgent flavor. Whether enjoyed warm for breakfast or as a dessert with afternoon tea, these swirled pastries are as comforting as they are impressive. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Chocolate Nutella Yeast Rolls with Orange Zest and Hazelnuts
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, golden yeast rolls swirled with Nutella, toasted hazelnuts, sesame seeds, and orange zest—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or cozy weekend baking.
Ingredients
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 1g instant dry yeast
- 8g sugar
- 1g salt
- 45g olive oil
- 65g filtered water
- 130–150g Nutella (softened)
- 40g blanched hazelnuts, chopped
- 20g toasted sesame seeds
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add olive oil and water, then knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a mixer until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough into a 20x30cm rectangle.
- Spread softened Nutella evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, sesame seeds, and orange zest on top.
- Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge and cut into 6–8 rolls.
- Place the rolls cut side up on the baking tray. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure Nutella is softened for easier spreading.
- Use freshly grated orange zest for the best flavor.
- You can toast the hazelnuts and sesame seeds ahead of time for deeper flavor.
- These rolls are best enjoyed warm but also store well for a day or two in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising)
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
