Nutella Stuffed French Toast

Golden, gooey, and dripping with nostalgia, this Nutella Stuffed French Toast is the kind of breakfast that feels like a hug from the inside out. With thick slices of bread filled with creamy Nutella and crisped to perfection, this dish delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Topped with juicy strawberries, it’s a sweet way to start any morning, or let’s be honest, even end your day.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born one lazy Sunday morning when I craved something more indulgent than my usual toast and coffee. There was half a loaf of brioche on the counter and a jar of Nutella that had been whispering my name all week. The rest? Culinary history in the making. It became an instant weekend tradition, one my family now begs for almost every Saturday.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

French toast itself dates all the way back to the Roman Empire, though it was known then as “Pan Dulcis.” The concept of soaking bread in milk and egg before frying it exists in many cultures, from “pain perdu” in France to “eggy bread” in England. The Nutella twist? That’s all modern comfort meets classic tradition. Combining a beloved hazelnut spread with this breakfast staple makes for a rich, chocolatey update to an age-old classic.

Why You’ll Love Nutella Stuffed French Toast

If you’re wondering what makes this recipe a must-try, let me break it down:

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Dress it up or keep it simple.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and just a little Nutella for big impact.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Customizable: Swap the fruit or try different spreads like almond butter or jam.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with kids, guests, and even picky eaters.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the sandwiches the night before and cook them fresh.
Great for Leftovers: Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for a crispy day-two treat.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Here’s how to take your Nutella stuffed French toast to the next level:

• Use thick-cut bread: Brioche or challah are ideal because they hold their shape without getting soggy.
• Don’t oversoak: Let the bread absorb the custard mixture but don’t drown it, or it’ll fall apart.
• Butter your pan: This gives the toast its irresistible golden crust and rich flavor.
• Cook low and slow: Medium heat allows the toast to cook through without burning the outside.
• Warm the Nutella: A quick 5 seconds in the microwave makes it easier to spread evenly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

No fancy gadgets needed here, just a few basics:

Mixing Bowl: To whisk together your egg mixture.
Whisk or Fork: For blending the custard base smoothly.
Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: Helps avoid sticking and ensures even cooking.
Spatula: For flipping the toast without tearing it.
Bread Knife: To slice thick pieces of bread if not pre-cut.

Ingredients in Nutella Stuffed French Toast

Let’s talk about how these simple ingredients work together in perfect harmony:

1. Thick Sliced Brioche Bread: 6 slices. Soft and slightly sweet, it soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
2. Nutella: About 6 tablespoons. Adds that rich, chocolate-hazelnut center that makes this dish unforgettable.
3. Eggs: 3 large. Binds everything together and creates that classic French toast texture.
4. Milk: 1/2 cup. Lightens the custard and ensures a creamy soak.
5. Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a warm, comforting spice.
6. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Elevates the flavor and gives a bakery-style aroma.
7. Butter: 2 tablespoons. For frying and giving the toast that golden, crispy edge.
8. Fresh Strawberries: 1/2 cup, chopped. Adds brightness and balance to the richness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to switch it up a bit? Here are some simple swaps:

Brioche Bread: Thick Texas toast or challah.
Nutella: Any chocolate spread or peanut butter.
Milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk.
Strawberries: Bananas, blueberries, or raspberries.
Butter: Coconut oil or a neutral cooking spray.

Ingredient Spotlight

Nutella: This iconic hazelnut spread adds indulgence and a creamy, melty surprise inside the toast.

Brioche: Rich, buttery, and slightly sweet, it’s the ultimate bread for making French toast that feels luxurious.

Instructions for Making Nutella Stuffed French Toast

We’re going all in on comfort food here, so let’s walk through the steps together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter so it starts melting as the pan warms.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until fully blended.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Ensure your pan is well-buttered and heated evenly. This prevents sticking and helps develop that perfect crust.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Spread Nutella on one side of three bread slices. Top with another slice to make three sandwiches. Gently dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides well but not oversaturating.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Place the sandwiches on the hot pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Top with chopped strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle of syrup if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately while the Nutella is still warm and melty. It’s a little messy, a little magical, and completely delicious.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic of this dish lies in its contrast. You get that crispy golden exterior, a custardy middle, and gooey Nutella flowing through every bite. The strawberries brighten things up with their juicy freshness, making each mouthful feel balanced and exciting.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here’s how to keep things stress-free in the kitchen:

• Use day-old bread for better soak and structure.
• Don’t rush the cooking, medium heat is your friend.
• Clean the skillet between batches to avoid burning.
• Add a pinch of salt to the custard to enhance sweetness naturally.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common slip-ups for the best results:

• Over-soaking the bread: It’ll turn mushy and hard to handle.
• High heat: This will brown the outside too fast, leaving the inside cold or undercooked.
• Too much Nutella: It may ooze out and burn on the pan.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 3
Calories per serving: 420
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble the Nutella sandwiches ahead and keep them in the fridge overnight. In the morning, dip and cook fresh for the best texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve Nutella Stuffed French Toast

Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. Add fresh fruit like bananas or raspberries for extra brightness. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or an iced latte for the ultimate treat.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn leftovers into a decadent dessert by slicing them into fingers and dipping them in melted chocolate. Or cube them up, bake with eggs and cream, and turn them into a Nutella bread pudding.

Additional Tips

• Use a serrated knife to slice the bread without squishing it.
• You can freeze assembled sandwiches before dipping. Just thaw, dip, and cook.
• Want extra indulgence? Add banana slices between the Nutella layers.

Make It a Showstopper

Stack the toast high, layer it with colorful fruit, and serve on a white plate to let the food pop. Dust with powdered sugar for a brunch-worthy finish. A sprig of mint or swirl of syrup on the plate adds that final fancy touch.

Variations to Try

• Berry Blast: Add raspberries or blueberries inside with the Nutella.
• Banana Crunch: Add sliced bananas and a sprinkle of granola inside.
• Cinnamon Roll Style: Mix cinnamon and brown sugar into the custard.
• Stuffed Cream Cheese: Use a mix of Nutella and cream cheese for extra richness.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, egg substitute, and dairy-free Nutella.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use regular sandwich bread?
Yes, but opt for thicker slices and be gentle when soaking.

Q2: Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze after assembling the sandwiches, then thaw, dip, and cook.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free Nutella.

Q4: What’s the best pan to use?
A non-stick skillet or electric griddle works great.

Q5: Can I prep these the night before?
Yes, assemble the sandwiches in advance and dip just before cooking.

Q6: Is it okay to skip the fruit topping?
Of course. It’s delicious with or without fruit.

Q7: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to keep the texture crisp.

Q8: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients comply.

Q9: How can I reduce the sweetness?
Use less Nutella and serve without syrup.

Q10: What other spreads work?
Try peanut butter, almond butter, or fruit jam for different flavors.

Conclusion

Nutella Stuffed French Toast is a sweet, cozy way to make any morning feel special. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a brunch, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every forkful. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

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