There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of warm, gooey Nutella and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made Nutella French Toast Rollups for my kids—they devoured them so quickly, I barely got a bite! This recipe has become my weekend go-to, especially when we want something sweet but not too heavy. It’s like the classic French toast got a fun little twist, rolled up with a chocolate-hazelnut surprise inside. If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and classic French toast, you’re going to adore these. Honestly, they’re perfect for lazy mornings or that mid-afternoon snack when you’re craving something indulgent but easy. And the best part? They’re surprisingly simple to whip up, even on hectic mornings.
What is Nutella French Toast?
Think of Nutella French Toast Rollups as a delightful hybrid between traditional French toast and a sweet, creamy roll-up dessert. It’s essentially slices of bread flattened out, spread with luscious Nutella, then rolled and dipped in a cinnamon-sugar egg batter before frying to golden perfection. The idea is super straightforward but the results feel a little fancy—and that little chocolate-hazelnut center is a total winner. It’s a nostalgic treat with a modern spin. The “rollup” concept makes breakfast feel like a fun surprise, and the gooey middle contrasts perfectly with the crispy exterior. You’re taking all the classic flavors of French toast but packing them into bite-sized, handheld rolls. It’s just the kind of indulgence I love sharing with friends who don’t have time for a full sit-down meal but still want something deliciously satisfying.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love most about Nutella French Toast Rollups is how they nail that perfect balance between indulgent and approachable. The flavor is just outstanding—cinnamon, eggy batter, and that rich, creamy Nutella center make every bite a little party. It’s like your favorite dessert found its way into your breakfast plate and no one gets tired of it. Plus, it’s ridiculously simple. You only need a handful of ingredients that are probably already sitting in your pantry or fridge, so no stressful grocery runs last minute. This recipe also feels budget-friendly for what you’re getting—Nutella and bread are affordable, and it’s easy to make enough for a crowd without breaking the bank.
Another thing I adore is the versatility. I’ve shared this with everyone from my kids to friends on busy mornings—they always ask for seconds. You can easily swap the Nutella for peanut butter and jelly, cream cheese and fruit preserves, or even a dash of cinnamon sugar if you want to keep it simple. It’s a fun canvas for creativity. I’ve even seen versions with savory fillings, which totally blew my mind. Compared to making a complex French toast casserole or baking cinnamon rolls, this recipe is a lifesaver. You get all the joy, none of the wait or fuss. I honestly think if you try these once, they’ll become a favorite in your brunch rotation, just like they are in mine.
How do I make Nutella French Toast Rollups?
Quick Overview
Making Nutella French Toast Rollups is like putting together a little breakfast gift that’s sweet, warm, and endlessly comforting. You start by flattening your bread, spreading on the Nutella, rolling it up tight, then dunking these rolls in a cinnamon-spiced egg mixture. A quick dip in a hot pan and you’ve got a golden, crispy outside with a molten inside. What makes this method special is how fast it comes together and how you get that perfect balance between crispy and melty. Plus, it’s super mom-friendly when you need a quick, impressive breakfast without the stress.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 4 large eggs – room temperature works best for smooth mixing
- ½ cup whole milk – I’ve found almond milk works beautifully too, making it creamier
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – adds a warm, cozy note
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – the signature spice you don’t want to skip
- Pinch of salt – balances all the sweetness perfectly
For the Filling:
- 1 small jar of Nutella (about 13 oz) – use the classic hazelnut spread or any chocolate-hazelnut spread you love
- Optional: small slices of banana or thin slices of strawberry inside for a fresh twist
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar – sifted to avoid lumps
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream – adjust for desired thickness
- ½ tsp vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract – amp up that flavor
- Optional: a tiny pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to create that golden crust, but not so hot it burns the rollups before they’re cooked through. A quick test with a small drop of batter should sizzle gently. While the pan warms, lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. I usually go with a small pat of butter for that extra buttery flavor and gorgeous browning.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, combine the cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Since your sugar is mainly in the glaze, mixing cinnamon directly with the eggs and milk will distribute that warm spice flavor evenly. I don’t like clumps of cinnamon, so I whisk it thoroughly, so the final batter looks smooth with tiny brown flecks.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, crack your eggs and whisk well until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Slowly add the milk and vanilla, whisking the whole time so you get a silky, uniform mixture. If you’re using almond milk, it sometimes froths a bit, which I actually love—it makes the batter feel richer! Make sure the mixture isn’t cold straight from the fridge or it will clump with the eggs.
Step 4: Combine
Now pour the wet ingredients into your dry cinnamon-salt mix. Whisk gently until just combined. The batter should be smooth and pourable but not too thin—think pancake batter thickness. Don’t over-whisk or you’ll end up with a tough bite later. The key here is a little airiness, but gentle handling.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Lay out your bread slices (classic white sandwich bread is ideal since it rolls easily). Use a rolling pin or your hand to gently flatten each slice—that’s the trick to getting a neat little roll without cracks. Spread a nice, even layer of Nutella on each slice, about a tablespoon. If you’re feeling adventurous, tuck thin banana or strawberry slices in the center before rolling. Don’t overload the filling, or the rolls could burst open when flipped.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Roll each slice tightly from one edge to the other, sealing it like a little dinner roll. This keeps the Nutella inside nicely melted and gooey. Once rolled, coat each rollup in your prepared cinnamon-egg batter, making sure to roll them around thoroughly so every inch is covered. This cinnamon swirl is the signature—it’s what gives that warm, spiced flavor inside and out.
Step 7: Bake
Actually, these babies fry on the stove rather than bake. Place them seam-side down onto your preheated pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown. If your pan gets too hot, reduce the heat; you want a slow, gentle sizzle so the rolls cook through without burning. Press lightly with a spatula for even contact. The smell alone here always draws my family to the kitchen!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Once cooked, transfer the rollups to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess butter. While still warm, drizzle your powdered sugar glaze over the top for that perfect finishing touch. If the glaze is too thick, thin it with a few drops of milk; too thin, add more powdered sugar. The glaze adds that extra sweetness and shine that makes these pop.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
These are best served warm. Slice each rollup diagonally for a pretty presentation that reveals the gooey Nutella center. Arrange them on a plate, sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar, and maybe even add fresh fruit on the side. My kids actually fight over the last piece, so don’t be surprised if these disappear quickly at your house too.
What to Serve It With
For Breakfast: Nutella French Toast Rollups go hand-in-hand with a strong cup of coffee or a frothy latte—you want something that complements the chocolatey sweetness without overpowering it. I like to add a side of fresh berries or banana slices to brighten the plate and add a bit of fresh tang.
For Brunch: Think a cheerful Sunday spread with fresh orange juice, maybe a mimosa if you’re feeling fancy, and a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone on the side. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top creates a fun texture contrast. Trust me, this will impress your guests!
As Dessert: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a warm-cold combo that’s dreamy. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can transform these from breakfast to dessert real quick. This is definitely one of those sneaky recipes you’ll find yourself making after dinner.
For Cozy Snacks: They are absolute gems when you want something comforting with a cup of tea or hot chocolate. I’ve even wrapped leftovers in foil and warmed them up for an after-school snack. My family swears by that little pick-me-up during chilly afternoons.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Nutella French Toast Rollups
Bread Choice: Use a soft white sandwich bread without crusts if possible. I’ve tried with whole wheat and it can be a little tougher to roll. If you only have thick sandwich bread, just grab a rolling pin and flatten slices well.
Spreading Nutella: Let the Nutella sit out a bit to soften before spreading—this makes rolling so much easier. If it’s too stiff, your roll might crack or break apart.
Egg Batter Magic: Whisk gently and don’t overmix. You want cinnamon well dispersed but a tender batter overall. If your batter develops clumps, a quick whisk or straining can fix it.
Cooking Temperature: Medium heat is your friend here. Too hot, and you’ll get dark crust with gooey but uncooked centers. Too low, and the rollups get greasy and limp. I usually hover around medium, adjusting as needed.
Sealing the Rolls: After spreading Nutella and rolling, press the edges slightly to seal well before dipping in batter. This stops the filling from escaping during frying.
Glaze Variations: If you want to switch up the glaze, try mixing in a little orange zest or espresso powder. It adds an unexpected but lovely twist that pairs beautifully with the Nutella.
Keep It Warm: If you’re making a big batch, keep finished rollups warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while frying the rest. That way, no one gets stuck eating cold rollups, and the texture stays just right.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: Freshly made Nutella French Toast Rollups are best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, cover them loosely with foil or wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and keep at room temp for up to 2 hours. Beyond that, they start to lose their crispiness.
Refrigerator Storage: Place rollups in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to avoid moisture buildup. They’ll keep well for about 2 days. When you reheat, pop them in a preheated oven (350°F) for 8-10 minutes to crisp back up, or a quick skillet toss over low heat works if you want to keep them extra crunchy.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above—you’ll get almost the same fresh-from-the-pan flavor.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re storing leftovers, wait to drizzle the glaze until just before serving or reheating. The glaze can get sticky or absorb moisture in the fridge, losing its lovely luster and texture otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Nutella French Toast Rollups are the kind of recipe that bring a little brightness to otherwise ordinary mornings. They’re quick, fun, and come with that unbeatable warm, chocolatey center that just feels like a hug on a plate. Every time I make these, my kitchen fills with that irresistible cinnamon aroma, and my family crowds around before the first bite, savoring the moment together. If you like this recipe, definitely check out some of my other breakfast favorites, like stuffed cinnamon rolls or classic brioche French toast—they all bring that same cozy, made-with-love vibe. Can’t wait to hear how yours turn out—seriously, these disappear in minutes at my house, and I’m betting the same will happen in yours. Happy baking, friend!
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 Crusts removed, flattened with rolling pin
- to taste Nutella For spreading on bread slices
- 4 tablespoons butter Divided for frying
- 0.25 cup vanilla sugar Or substitute with powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Make the custard by whisking together the milk, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Prepare the bread slices by cutting off the crust and flattening each slice with a rolling pin as much as possible.
- Spread Nutella evenly over each flattened bread slice and roll up tightly, securing the seam by lightly pinching.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Dip each rollup in the custard mixture and cook in the pan until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Cook in batches, adding remaining butter as needed.
- Roll the cooked French toast rollups in vanilla sugar or dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.
