There’s something magical about transforming ordinary bread into a decadent breakfast treat, and this Nutella French Toast takes that magic to new heights. The combination of custard-soaked bread with the rich, hazelnut-chocolate spread creates a breakfast experience that feels like dessert, but we’re calling it a perfectly acceptable morning meal.
Whether you’re planning a special weekend brunch or just want to surprise your family with something extraordinary on a regular morning, this Nutella French Toast strikes the perfect balance between effort and reward. It’s indulgent without being complicated, making it an ideal choice for both special occasions and “just because” moments.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry
- Perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, custard-like centers
- Kid-approved but sophisticated enough for adults
- Prep time is just 15 minutes with 30 minutes total cooking time
- Easily customizable with different toppings and add-ins
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 3-4 tablespoons Nutella
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk (almond milk recommended)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Coconut oil, butter, or oil for frying
- Fresh strawberries
- Cocoa powder or powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Whisk together egg, milk, vanilla, and salt in a deep bowl.
- Spread Nutella on each bread slice. Make two sandwiches with Nutella on inside.
- Dip each sandwich in custard mixture, allowing 1-2 minutes per side to soak but not become too soggy.
- Heat oil in pan over medium heat. Pan fry sandwiches until golden brown on both sides.
- Slice in half, dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar, garnish with strawberries.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Day-old bread works best as it soaks up the custard mixture without falling apart.
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the egg mixture for a bright citrus note.
- Try other spreads like cookie butter, peanut butter, or fruit jam instead of Nutella.
- Make it a stuffed French toast by cutting a pocket in thick bread slices instead of making sandwiches.
- For a make-ahead option, prepare the sandwiches the night before and store in the refrigerator; just dip and cook in the morning.
Serving Suggestions
This Nutella French Toast is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a more balanced breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit such as strawberries, bananas, or raspberries to cut through the richness.
For a complete brunch spread, pair with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage, and don’t forget a strong cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to wash it all down.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain the crispy exterior.
- The French toast is done when both sides are golden brown and the center is heated through.
- If the outside is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?
While you can use any bread, brioche, challah, or thick-cut white bread work best as they’re sturdy enough to hold the Nutella and have a slightly sweet flavor that complements the chocolate-hazelnut spread.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, use a dairy-free butter alternative, and check that your Nutella or hazelnut spread is dairy-free.
How do I prevent the Nutella from oozing out during cooking?
Make sure not to spread the Nutella all the way to the edges of the bread. Leave about a 1/2-inch border around the perimeter to help seal in the spread when cooking.
Can I freeze this French toast?
Yes, you can freeze cooked French toast for up to 1 month. Place cooled slices on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed through.
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