Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Temptations

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Temptations
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 package of puff pastry (thawed); 1 egg (for egg wash); 2 tablespoons of milk; 1 cup of dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup of hazelnuts (chopped); 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I absolutely adore the combination of buttery, flaky croissants filled with rich chocolate and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. Creating these Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Temptations was a delightful journey into baking that left my kitchen smelling heavenly. The interplay of textures—crispy outside and creamy inside—makes each bite an indulgence. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat after dinner, these croissants stand out for their luxurious flavor and satisfying crunch. I can't wait for you to experience this deliciously indulgent recipe!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:30:28.787Z

When I first tried making these Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Temptations, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding the process turned out to be. The key is to ensure your croissant dough is properly chilled, which helps in achieving that perfect flaky texture. I recommend using quality dark chocolate and fresh hazelnuts; the difference in flavor is remarkable!

As I crafted my version, I discovered that letting the filled croissants rest for a few minutes before baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This little step makes a world of difference as the rich chocolate and nutty filling become one with the buttery layers of the croissant. I still can't get enough of them!

Why You'll Love These Temptations
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnut bits
Flaky and buttery croissant crust that’s irresistibly good
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert

Perfecting the Croissant Texture

Achieving that enviable flaky texture in your croissants comes down to how you handle the puff pastry. When rolling out the pastry, ensure it's not too thin; about 1/8 inch is ideal. This thickness allows the layers to separate beautifully during baking, creating the signature flakiness. If you notice the dough starting to warm up too much as you work, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This keeps the butter solid, resulting in a better rise and crisp finish.

Puff pastry can be a little temperamental, so it’s crucial to keep your work surface lightly floured, but don’t overdo it. Excess flour can inhibit the layers from sticking together, which is crucial for that heavenly croissant texture. The ideal state is when the dough feels firm yet pliable, allowing you to cut into triangles without tearing. If it tears, simply piece it back together gently; the beauty of puff pastry is its forgiving nature with layers.

Crafting the Chocolate Hazelnut Filling

The filling is what makes these croissants truly special, and the balance of chocolate and hazelnuts is key. Using dark chocolate chips is essential for providing that rich flavor contrast and melting perfectly within the pastry. As they bake, the chocolate will become creamy, marrying beautifully with the crunchy texture of the hazelnuts. If desired, you can substitute the dark chocolate with semi-sweet varieties for a sweeter touch, but be aware this will change the flavor profile slightly.

When mixing the filling, make sure to chop the hazelnuts finely but not into a powder. You want those delightful bites of nutty flavor in every croissant. Additionally, adjusting the powdered sugar can help balance sweetness to your preference. Too much sugar can overpower the richness of the chocolate, so start with the recommended amount and taste as you mix, adjusting to your liking before filling the croissants.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients to create your own Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Temptations!

For the Croissants

1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
1 egg (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons of milk

For the Filling

1 cup of dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup of hazelnuts (chopped)
2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Once you have these ingredients ready, you’re halfway to a decadent treat!

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to create these mouthwatering croissants.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the dark chocolate chips, chopped hazelnuts, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Roll the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle. Cut it into triangles.

Add the Filling

Place a spoonful of the chocolate hazelnut filling at the base of each triangle and roll them towards the tip.

Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the tops of the croissants with a mixture of beaten egg and milk. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Let them cool slightly before serving for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the croissants just before baking to enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant Temptations are decadent enough to stand on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruit can add a refreshing contrast. Sliced strawberries or a side of citrus fruit can brighten up the flavors and add a splash of color to your presentation. Consider serving them alongside a lightly sweetened whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

For an added touch, dust the finished croissants with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar right before serving. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also provides a hint of sweetness that complements the rich filling. I like to serve these croissants warm, fresh out of the oven, as they are at their best when the chocolate is still gooey and the pastry is crisp.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're preparing for a gathering or want to enjoy these croissants over the weekend, you can make the filling a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to assemble, it might be helpful to let it come to room temperature for easier spreading. However, avoid rolling and baking the croissants too far in advance as they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain that delightful flakiness.

Should you have any leftovers, allow the croissants to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, which helps restore some of their original texture. Freezing is also an option; wrap each croissant tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them as suggested for a delicious treat anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought croissants?

Yes, you can slice store-bought croissants and fill them with the chocolate hazelnut mixture for a quicker version!

→ How should I store leftover croissants?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or pecans also work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to freeze these croissants?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked croissants. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.