Save The morning our daughter brought home her first A+ in math, I wanted to celebrate with something special. Rummaging through the pantry, I spotted the jar of Nutella sitting next to a fresh loaf of brioche, and inspiration struck like lightning. The kitchen filled with buttery aromas as I dipped those Nutella-stuffed brioche slices into custard, listening to her recount every detail of the test while the bread sizzled in the pan.
Last winter, when my sisters family visited during that awful snowstorm, I made this French toast on the third morning when cabin fever was setting in hard. The moment I brought the platter to the table, my normally phone-obsessed teenage nephew actually put his device down and asked if he could have two servings. My sister later texted asking for the recipe, saying hed mentioned it three times on their drive home.
Ingredients
- Brioche bread: Its pillowy texture soaks up the custard without falling apart, though I learned the slightly stale brioche actually works even better than fresh.
- Nutella: That spoonful hidden between the slices caramelizes slightly during cooking, creating pockets of melted chocolate heaven that no plain French toast could ever match.
- Heavy cream: Adding this alongside the milk creates a velvety richness in the custard that makes all the difference, something I discovered when I ran low on milk one morning.
- Ground cinnamon: Just that quarter teaspoon transforms the vanilla custard into something that smells like a fancy bakery, though my husband prefers it without.
Instructions
- Create the Nutella sandwiches:
- Spread a generous tablespoon of Nutella on four slices of your brioche, leaving a small border around the edges so it doesnt squeeze out during cooking. Top each with another slice, pressing gently to create four chocolate-filled sandwiches.
- Whisk up the custard bath:
- In a wide, shallow bowl, combine your eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and that tiny pinch of salt until the mixture looks uniform. The vanilla specks floating throughout tell you its ready.
- Prep your cooking surface:
- Melt that tablespoon of butter in your skillet over medium heat until it starts to bubble slightly but before it browns. The perfect temperature leaves the butter glistening but not smoking.
- The dipping ritual:
- Hold each sandwich by its corners and dip it into the custard, letting it soak for about 10 seconds per side. You want it saturated but not falling apart, like a sponge thats wet but not dripping.
- Transform through heat:
- Place your soaked sandwiches in the skillet, listening for that satisfying sizzle that tells you magic is happening. Flip after about 2-3 minutes when the bottom is golden brown, adding more butter between batches if needed.
- Finish with flair:
- Transfer your golden creations to plates, then dust with powdered sugar like youre finishing a masterpiece. Add fresh berries for color and balance, drizzling with maple syrup or extra Nutella depending on your sweet tooth that morning.
Save When my best friend was going through her divorce, she came over unannounced one Sunday morning, eyes red from crying. Without asking questions, I pulled out the brioche and Nutella, and we stood in comfortable silence as I prepared this French toast. By the second bite, she started talking about her feelings, and by the end of breakfast, she had a plan forward. Now she makes it for herself on days when she needs extra comfort.
Make-Ahead Options
On chaotic holiday mornings when relatives are everywhere, I prepare the Nutella sandwiches and custard mixture the night before, storing them separately in the refrigerator. The egg mixture actually benefits from this rest, developing a deeper vanilla flavor that infuses more thoroughly into the bread. Just give the custard a quick whisk before dipping, as the cinnamon tends to settle at the bottom overnight.
Kid-Friendly Variations
When my nieces and nephews visit, I set up a French toast bar where they can customize their own sandwiches before I dip and cook them. Some prefer peanut butter instead of Nutella, while others like sliced strawberries or bananas tucked inside with just a thin chocolate layer. The activity keeps little hands busy while I heat the skillet, and somehow, they eat with more enthusiasm when theyve had a hand in creating their breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
While powdered sugar and maple syrup are classic toppings, this French toast reaches new heights with unexpected accompaniments that balance its richness. My personal favorite discovery came during raspberry season when the tartness of fresh berries cut through the sweetness, creating this perfect harmony that had everyone at the table silent except for the occasional appreciative sigh.
- A dollop of lightly whipped cream sprinkled with orange zest adds a citrusy brightness that wakes up your taste buds.
- For special occasions, warm some additional Nutella with a splash of cream to create a pourable chocolate sauce that hardens slightly when it hits the cold berries.
- Keep a small bowl of flaky sea salt nearby for those who enjoy that sweet-salty contrast that makes flavors pop.
Save This Nutella Brioche French Toast isnt just breakfast, its an expression of care. Whether youre making it for someone special or just treating yourself, theres something about the combination of golden, custard-soaked bread and melted chocolate that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the egg custard from oversaturating the bread?
Dip each sandwich quickly into the custard mixture, coating both sides for just 1-2 seconds each. The brioche should absorb the mixture without becoming soggy. Avoid letting it soak.
- → Can I prepare the Nutella sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Nutella sandwiches up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Dip and cook just before serving for the best texture and warmth.
- → What bread can I use if brioche isn't available?
Challah or soft white bread work wonderfully as substitutes. Both have a similar tender crumb and will absorb the custard beautifully while maintaining structural integrity.
- → How do I know when the custard is fully cooked?
The sandwich should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch when pressed gently. The egg custard sets at around 160°F, though you'll recognize it by the crispy exterior and set interior.
- → Can I add extra fillings to these sandwiches?
Absolutely. Sliced bananas, strawberries, or a thin layer of almond butter complement the Nutella beautifully. Add fillings between the bread and Nutella layer before assembly.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven at 325°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness without drying them out.