Nutella French Toast

When you take two slices of buttery brioche bread, sandwich them with a thick swipe of Nutella, and dip the whole thing into a vanilla-scented custard before frying it to golden perfection, something magical happens. Nutella French Toast is the definition of cozy indulgence, perfect for lazy weekends, breakfast in bed, or anytime you’re craving something sweet, rich, and a little over-the-top. Let me tell you, it’s worth every melty, chocolatey bite.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by my favorite childhood breakfast — classic French toast — but with a grown-up twist. One day, while staring down a loaf of brioche and a jar of Nutella, it hit me. Why not combine the two? A few tries later, I had landed on the perfect formula: thick slices of bread, a creamy filling, and a lightly sweetened custard that crisps up in butter. The result? A warm, gooey, golden creation that feels like a hug on a plate.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

French toast, or “pain perdu,” actually has ancient roots, dating back to the Romans. It was traditionally made to revive stale bread, turning it into a rich breakfast with eggs and milk. Fast forward to today, and the dish has evolved into a brunch staple. Adding Nutella — the beloved chocolate hazelnut spread from Italy — turns this humble dish into a decadent treat with European flair. It’s fusion comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love Nutella French Toast

This breakfast is more than delicious — it’s downright irresistible. Here’s why:

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.

Customizable: Add bananas, cinnamon, or even a splash of espresso.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed favorite for both kids and adults.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and cook in the morning.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully in the toaster or oven.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To make sure your French toast turns out restaurant-worthy, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Use thick slices of brioche for the best texture and richness.
• Spread Nutella evenly to avoid overflow while cooking.
• Let the bread soak for a few seconds to absorb the custard without getting soggy.
• Cook on medium heat to get a golden exterior and warm interior.
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the prettiest finish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gadgets — just a few basics:

Mixing Bowl: For whisking the custard.

Shallow Dish: Ideal for dipping the bread slices.

Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: For cooking the toast to golden perfection.

Spatula: To flip your slices gently without tearing.

Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: For that pretty powdered sugar finish.

Ingredients in Nutella French Toast

Simple ingredients come together for an extraordinary result:

1. Brioche Bread: 4 slices, about ¾” to 1″ thick – Rich, buttery, and perfect for soaking up custard.
2. Nutella: 4 tablespoons – Creamy hazelnut-chocolate spread that melts beautifully inside.
3. Egg: 1 large – Helps create the custard base for dipping.
4. Whole Milk (or Half and Half): ½ cup – Adds richness to the custard mixture.
5. Sugar: 1 tablespoon – Lightly sweetens the custard.
6. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds warm, fragrant depth to the custard.
7. Butter: 1 tablespoon – For greasing the pan and adding flavor.
8. Powdered Sugar: For dusting – Adds sweetness and visual appeal.
9. Fresh Berries: For garnish – Brightens and balances the richness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need a few swaps? No problem:

Brioche Bread: Use challah, Texas toast, or thick white bread.

Nutella: Substitute with any chocolate spread or almond butter.

Whole Milk: Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.

Sugar: Maple syrup or honey can be used for a twist.

Butter: Use coconut oil or plant-based butter if needed.

Ingredient Spotlight

Brioche Bread: This bread is rich, soft, and slightly sweet, making it ideal for soaking up custard without falling apart. It toasts beautifully and gives that golden crisp we love.

Nutella: With its smooth hazelnut-chocolate flavor, Nutella adds the ultimate gooey center that turns ordinary French toast into something truly indulgent.

Instructions for Making Nutella French Toast

Let’s turn that slice of bread into something unforgettable. Here’s how:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat and let it warm up while you prepare the rest.

2. Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, coating the pan evenly.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Spread 2 tablespoons of Nutella on two slices of brioche. Top each with another slice to make a sandwich.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Dip each sandwich briefly into the custard, coating both sides. Place on the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.

6. Finishing Touches:
Remove from heat and let sit for 1 minute. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice, stack, and serve immediately while the Nutella is still warm and melty.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Nutella French Toast is all about contrast — the crispy, golden exterior meets the soft, custard-soaked center, with a river of warm chocolate-hazelnut flowing through the middle. The berries add a juicy brightness, while the powdered sugar brings a gentle sweetness and visual charm.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep it simple and foolproof with these tips:

• Use day-old bread for better structure and soaking.
• Don’t soak the bread too long — 5 seconds per side is enough.
• Wipe out excess custard from the pan between batches to prevent burning.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common French toast mistakes:

• Over-soaking: Makes the bread fall apart.
• High heat: Burns the outside before the inside is warmed through.
• Using thin bread: Won’t hold up to the filling or custard.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 480

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble the Nutella sandwiches the night before and store them in the fridge, ready for dipping and cooking in the morning. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in a toaster or skillet. You can also freeze them — just wrap in foil and reheat straight from frozen.

How to Serve Nutella French Toast

Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a handful of fresh berries, and maybe a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also fantastic with banana slices or a scoop of vanilla yogurt on the side.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover toast? Don’t let it go to waste:

• French Toast Sticks: Slice and reheat for a grab-and-go snack.
• Dessert Sandwich: Add ice cream between two slices and freeze.
• Breakfast Bake: Chop and layer with more custard to bake into a casserole.

Additional Tips

• Always cook in butter for the best flavor and color.
• Slice diagonally for a more elegant presentation.
• Use a serrated knife for clean slicing without squishing the layers.

Make It a Showstopper

Stack slices high and drizzle with warm Nutella. Add fresh mint leaves and edible flowers for a brunch-worthy finish. Serve on a contrasting plate to make those golden tones pop in photos.

Variations to Try

• Banana Nutella French Toast: Add sliced bananas inside before cooking.
• Stuffed Cream Cheese Version: Spread a layer of sweetened cream cheese along with the Nutella.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Add ground cinnamon to the custard for extra warmth.
• Nut-Free: Use chocolate spread or sunflower butter.
• Savory-Sweet Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use regular white bread?
A1: Yes, but thicker slices work better for holding the filling.

Q2: Can I make this without Nutella?
A2: Absolutely — try peanut butter, almond butter, or jam.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
A3: Yes, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.

Q4: Can I cook it in the oven?
A4: Yes, place on a baking sheet at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping once.

Q5: How do I keep it warm for a crowd?
A5: Keep finished slices in a 200°F oven while you make the rest.

Q6: Can I freeze Nutella French Toast?
A6: Yes, wrap tightly in foil and reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.

Q7: Is it kid-friendly?
A7: Very! It’s a guaranteed favorite with children.

Q8: What other toppings can I add?
A8: Whipped cream, chopped nuts, caramel sauce, or Greek yogurt.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Easily — just use a large griddle to cook multiple at once.

Q10: How do I avoid soggy French toast?
A10: Don’t over-soak and use thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah.

Conclusion

Nutella French Toast is the kind of breakfast that feels like a treat but comes together with barely any effort. It’s rich, warm, gooey, and just sweet enough to feel special without being over the top. Whether you’re making it for yourself or a table full of hungry brunch guests, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. Go ahead — grab that Nutella jar and make your morning a little more magical.

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