There’s something almost magical about the smell of warm Nutella melting into crispy, golden toast first thing in the morning. I still remember the first time I made Nutella French Toast Rollups for my kids—they disappeared faster than I could pour the coffee. It’s one of those recipes that feels a little indulgent but somehow light and fun at the same time. It’s way simpler than traditional French toast, but with all the rich, chocolate-hazelnut goodness packed inside every bite. If you’ve ever loved a classic Nutella sandwich or the sweet layers of French toast, this one’s like the two combined—rolled up and ready to dip in syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar. Honestly, this has become my go-to treat on sleepy weekend mornings or as a quick fix when I just want something cozy but fuss-free.
What is Nutella French Toast?
Nutella French Toast Rollups are essentially slices of bread rolled around a delicious spread of Nutella and then dipped in a simple egg and milk batter before frying or baking until golden. Think of it as a handheld version of French toast with a surprise chocolaty center. The name gives away the secret: you roll up the bread, then cook it like French toast, but because it’s rolled, every bite has a gooey center that makes it feel extra special. It’s a fun spin on classic French toast—one that kids and adults alike find irresistible, and the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a little breakfast party.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love most about Nutella French Toast Rollups is how they strike just the right balance between indulgence and ease. The flavor? Oh, it’s like a chocolatey hug. The Nutella inside gets soft and a tad gooey from the heat, complementing the crisp perimeter of perfectly cooked bread. Unlike typical French toast, you don’t need to flip big slices or deal with soggy centers—it’s all wrapped up neat and tidy, making it easy to eat and mess-free.
This recipe is such a lifesaver on busy weekend mornings when you want something special but don’t want to slave over a stack of pancakes. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly—just bread, eggs, milk, and that luscious jar of Nutella or any hazelnut spread you love. You can even customize it by adding slices of banana, strawberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a flavor twist. It’s a super versatile recipe that fits any sweet tooth craving. I’ve put my own spin on it enough times to know the little tweaks that make it perfect—like trimming off crusts for easier rolling and letting the rollups sit in the batter just long enough for full soak without falling apart.
If you enjoy recipes like stuffed French toast or even crepes with chocolate fillings, this one’s going to feel like an instant classic in your kitchen arsenal. My kids ask for these on sleep-in days, and honestly, it’s tough to say no.
How do I make Nutella French Toast Rollups?
Quick Overview
Making Nutella French Toast Rollups is a straightforward process that’s all about layering, rolling, dipping, and cooking. It starts with spreading Nutella onto softened bread slices, rolling them up tightly, and then dipping them in an egg and milk mixture—the classic French toast batter. The secret here is to get that batter just right, not too runny, so you get a crispy outside that seals in all the chocolaty filling. You can pan-fry them for that buttery golden finish or bake them for a lighter touch. Either way, they turn out beautifully, with a crispy outside and a warm, melty inside. The best part? You’ll have these ready in under 20 minutes once you get the hang of it.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 3 large eggs – room temperature works best for even mixing
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk if you want it creamier)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – it brings a subtle warmth that complements the Nutella
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar – to add sweetness without overpowering
- A pinch of salt – to balance all the flavors
- Butter or oil – for pan-frying
For the Filling:
- 8 slices of white or whole wheat sandwich bread – crusts trimmed to make rolling easier
- Nutella, or any chocolate-hazelnut spread – about ½ cup, softened for easy spreading
- Optional: sliced strawberries or bananas to add inside for extra flavor and texture
For the Glaze and Finishing Touches:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup or honey, for serving
- Optional: cinnamon sugar mix, for sprinkling after cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Get your pan heating over medium heat before you even start rolling. I never skip this step because a properly heated pan helps the rollups get that gorgeous golden crust without sticking. Add a bit of butter or oil to coat the surface—just enough to shimmer without pooling. If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the sugar and salt. This makes sure the sugar dissolves smoothly in the batter, giving you that hint of sweetness on the crust without graininess. If you’re adding cinnamon sugar on top later, you can mix some cinnamon in here to infuse flavor right into the batter.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Grab another bowl for the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk—whisk these until smooth and pale yellow. The vanilla adds that cozy warmth, and the milk helps the batter seep into the bread just right. I’ve tried this with almond milk, and it actually gave the French toast an extra creamy texture that was surprisingly delicious.
Step 4: Combine
Slowly pour your wet mix into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. You want a silky consistency here—not too thick or watery. The balance helps the bread soak enough to reveal a soft center but keeps it crisp on the outside. If the batter looks too thin, a little extra sugar or a splash more milk usually fixes that.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Lay your bread slices flat and spread a generous layer of Nutella—thick but not overflowing to avoid too much melting out during cooking. If you’re adding fruit, place thin slices of banana or strawberry right on top of the Nutella. This combo is such a crowd-pleaser and adds a fresh, natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich Nutella.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Roll each bread slice up tightly but gently. If the bread tears, just patch it up by pressing those bits back together. You want the seam facing down when you set them aside so they don’t unravel. This rolling step is key—it traps all that filling inside so it warms up and melts into the center as you cook.
Step 7: Cook (Pan-Fry or Bake)
If pan-frying, dip each rollup in the batter, making sure it’s fully coated, then place seam side down in your preheated pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crisp—you’ll see the edges turn perfectly brown and smell that irresistible toasty aroma. For baking, arrange the dipped rollups on your lined sheet and bake 12-15 minutes, rolling them halfway through for even color.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Once done, let the rollups rest for a couple of minutes on a wire rack or plate. They’ll be piping hot inside, and this cool-down keeps the coating from getting soggy. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar while still warm for that irresistible look and touch of sweetness.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
You can serve them whole or slice each rollup into bite-sized pieces for sharing (or hiding from kids sneaking seconds!). They’re heavenly dipped in maple syrup or just enjoyed solo for a simpler, quick treat. A little side of fresh berries or a cup of coffee rounds out the experience perfectly.
What to Serve It With
For Breakfast: I love pairing these rollups with a strong cup of black coffee or a frothy latte. The bitterness cuts through the sweetness perfectly, and a side of fresh fruit or a small bowl of yogurt balances the richness.
For Brunch: Serve on a wooden platter with mixed fruits like grapes and strawberries—sprinkle some crushed nuts on the side for a crunchy contrast. A mimosa or a sparkling juice adds a festive touch without stealing the show.
As Dessert: This recipe shines after dinner too. Warm rollups drizzled with a bit of extra Nutella or caramel sauce, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream, wow every time. They feel fancy but require zero fuss.
For Cozy Snacks: Those late-night sweet cravings don’t stand a chance here. Pop a couple of mini rollups in the toaster oven for a quick warm snack with a glass of milk or herbal tea. My family’s favorite way to sneak in a bit of weekend comfort fast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Nutella French Toast Rollups
Bread Prep: Always trim the crusts if you want neat rolls that don’t crack or tear. Slightly stale bread works wonders here—it absorbs the batter better without falling apart.
Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine and keep the texture tender. Too much whisking can make the egg mixture tough. I also learned to whisk eggs and milk first, then fold in sugar last for a smooth blend.
Rolling Technique: Roll the bread gently but firmly and tuck any loose edges under the seam. It helps them hold their shape while cooking and prevents Nutella leaks.
Ingredient Swaps: Out of Nutella? Try peanut butter or almond butter with a little honey—just be mindful it won’t melt the same way. For milk, oat and almond alternatives work great, just adjust batter thickness.
Cooking Tips: Medium heat is your friend—it lets the rollups cook through without burning the outside. If pan-frying, add a little extra butter halfway for more richness. Oven baking is less hands-on and safer for feeding a crowd.
Glaze Variations: Beyond powdered sugar, I’ve mixed a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into it for a cozy twist. Or drizzle with melted chocolate or a quick berry sauce—experimenting with flavors is part of the fun!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: If you’re serving right away, cover the rollups with foil or a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and prevent drying. They’re best eaten within 1-2 hours for that fresh crispness.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover rollups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or on the stove to revive the crisp outside; microwave reheating works in a pinch but softens the crunch.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap rollups individually in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture retention.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re freezing or storing, wait to add powdered sugar or syrup after reheating. Adding glaze beforehand can make the rollups soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, Nutella French Toast Rollups are one of those recipes that have snuck into my family’s rotation because they’re just so darn simple and satisfying. The combination of crispy edges and warm, melty Nutella center is a little piece of breakfast heaven that never fails to bring a smile. They’re the kind of treat that feel a bit special but don’t require hours in the kitchen, which is why I keep coming back to them on busy mornings or lazy weekends. If you love Nutella and crave something cozy yet quick, these rollups are your answer. Give them a try, and I’d love to know what variation becomes your favorite—maybe with banana or a sprinkling of sea salt?
Feel free to leave a comment, share your tips, or rate the recipe—I’m always excited to hear how your own Nutella French Toast Rollups turn out. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Nutella French Toast Rollups
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.25 cup milk
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 12 slices sandwich bread Whole Wheat by Pepperidge Farms, crust removed
- to taste Nutella for spreading
- 4 tablespoons butter divided for cooking
- 0.25 cup vanilla sugar or powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Make the custard. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Set aside.
- Prepare the bread slices. Cut the crusts off the bread and flatten each slice with a rolling pin to make them as flat as possible.
- Spread Nutella evenly on each flattened bread slice, then roll up tightly, pinching the seam to seal.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Dip each roll-up in the custard mixture, then place in the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook another minute. Repeat in batches, adding remaining butter as needed.
- Roll the cooked roll-ups in vanilla sugar or dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.
