Introduction
Air Fryer Nutella Bombs are a delightful treat that combines the irresistible creaminess of Nutella with a golden, crispy outer shell. These bite-sized desserts are easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, and they cook to perfection in an air fryer. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a sweet snack, or a treat to impress your guests, these Nutella Bombs are sure to satisfy your cravings.
The History of Nutella Bombs
Nutella, the star ingredient of these delectable bombs, has an interesting history. The origins of Nutella date back to post-World War II Italy when cocoa was scarce, and an Italian pastry chef named Pietro Ferrero created a hazelnut-based spread to stretch the limited cocoa supply. This spread evolved into what we now know as Nutella, one of the most beloved chocolate hazelnut spreads worldwide. Over time, bakers and home cooks have incorporated Nutella into various recipes, including pastries, cookies, and now, Nutella Bombs. Air frying as a cooking method has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to create crispy textures with less oil, making it a perfect choice for cooking Nutella Bombs.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make Air Fryer Nutella Bombs, you only need a few simple ingredients:
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough or Puff Pastry: Provides the crispy and flaky outer layer.
- Nutella: The rich, creamy, chocolate-hazelnut filling.
- Egg Wash (Egg + Water or Milk): Helps create a golden, glossy finish.
- Powdered Sugar: For a dusting of sweetness on top.
- Optional Toppings: Chopped hazelnuts, cinnamon sugar, or melted chocolate for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Dough: If using biscuit dough, separate the individual pieces. If using puff pastry, roll it out and cut it into squares.
- Fill with Nutella: Place a small spoonful of Nutella in the center of each dough piece. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during cooking.
- Seal the Dough: Fold the dough around the Nutella, pinching the edges together to create a sealed ball. Roll gently between your hands to ensure even sealing.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush each Nutella Bomb lightly with an egg wash to help achieve a golden-brown color.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
- Cook the Nutella Bombs: Arrange them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Cool Slightly and Garnish: Let the Nutella Bombs cool for a minute before dusting them with powdered sugar or adding optional toppings.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy them warm for the best taste and texture!
Tips for the Perfect Nutella Bombs
- Do not overfill with Nutella, or it may leak out during cooking.
- Ensure the dough is properly sealed to prevent spillage.
- Use parchment paper in the air fryer for easy cleanup.
- Experiment with different dough types, such as crescent roll dough or homemade pastry.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as they may lose crispiness if stored for too long.
Variations and Customizations
- Different Fillings: Try using peanut butter, cookie butter, or fruit preserves in place of Nutella.
- Coating Options: Roll the bombs in cinnamon sugar right after air frying for a churro-like treat.
- Toppings: Drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Savory Version: Use cream cheese or a nut-based spread for a less sweet variation.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuit dough or pastry to accommodate dietary needs.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While Nutella Bombs are a delicious treat, they are best enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar and calorie content. Nutella contains hazelnuts, cocoa, and palm oil, which provide some nutritional benefits but are also high in fat and sugar. Opting for whole wheat or reduced-sugar dough can make them a slightly healthier choice. Using an air fryer instead of deep frying significantly reduces the amount of oil and calories compared to traditional fried desserts.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough balls and refrigerate them before air frying. However, they are best served fresh. Can I bake them instead? Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Can I freeze Nutella Bombs? Yes, you can freeze unbaked bombs and air fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cook time. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore crispiness. Can I use homemade dough? Definitely! Homemade pastry or biscuit dough works great and allows for more customization.
Air Fryer Nutella Bombs
Ingredients
- 1 can 8-count Pillsbury Grand biscuits (not flaky layers)
- 1 cup 280 g Nutella
- ½ cup 1 stick / 113 g unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup 31 g confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Open the can of biscuits and separate each one into two layers. Flatten each layer into a 4-inch circle, creating a total of 16 circles.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of Nutella in the center of each circle.
- Fold the edges together and pinch tightly to seal, forming a ball. Ensure the dough is evenly thick for consistent cooking.
- Brush both the tops and bottoms of the dough balls with melted butter.
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the dough balls in the basket, keeping them about 2 inches apart. Work in batches if necessary.
- Air fry at 330°F for 7-8 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Transfer the Nutella bombs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
- Finish with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Notes
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat muffin tins with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the prepared Nutella bombs into the muffin tin cups.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
- Finish with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar before serving