We’ve all been there – staring at a jar of Nutella wondering how to make breakfast more exciting. These fluffy Nutella pancakes transform your ordinary morning routine into something absolutely magical. The rich hazelnut-chocolate spread melts beautifully into the batter creating pockets of gooey goodness that’ll have everyone fighting for seconds.
What makes these pancakes truly special is how the Nutella creates that perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. We’re talking about pancakes that are crispy on the edges yet impossibly tender in the center with ribbons of melted chocolate throughout. They’re surprisingly easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch or need to win over some grumpy teenagers these Nutella pancakes deliver every single time. They’re the kind of breakfast that turns ordinary mornings into celebrations and creates memories that last long after the last bite.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected ingredients that work together to create fluffy pancakes with rich Nutella flavor throughout. Our recipe uses pantry staples combined with the beloved hazelnut spread for maximum deliciousness.
For the Pancakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
For the Nutella Swirl
- 1/3 cup Nutella hazelnut spread
- 2 tablespoons warm milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
For Serving
- Additional Nutella for drizzling
- Fresh strawberries or bananas sliced
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Chopped hazelnuts
Equipment Needed
Creating perfect Nutella pancakes requires the right tools to ensure success in our kitchen adventure. We need exact equipment to handle the batter preparation, cooking process, and any optional stuffing techniques.
Essential Mixing Equipment
We recommend starting with two mixing bowls for combining our batter ingredients effectively. One bowl handles the dry ingredients while the other manages the wet components. A whisk becomes crucial for thoroughly mixing ingredients and eliminating lumps from our pancake batter.
Measuring Tools
Accurate measurements make the difference between fluffy pancakes and dense disappointments. Measuring cups and spoons or a food scale ensure we achieve the perfect ratios for our Nutella pancake recipe. Precision in measurement creates consistent results every time we make this breakfast treat.
Cooking Equipment
The cooking process demands a nonstick skillet or pan for even heat distribution and easy pancake release. Our pancakes cook beautifully without sticking when we use proper nonstick surfaces. A spatula handles the delicate flipping process while a ladle controls batter portion sizes for uniform pancakes.
Optional Stuffing Equipment
For those attempting stuffed Nutella pancakes with molten centers, we need a tray with parchment paper for freezing Nutella portions. This technique creates surprise pockets of warm Nutella inside our pancakes.
| Equipment Type | Primary Function | Required/Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combine ingredients | Required |
| Whisk | Mix batter thoroughly | Required |
| Measuring tools | Accurate portions | Required |
| Nonstick skillet | Cook pancakes evenly | Required |
| Spatula | Flip pancakes | Required |
| Ladle | Pour consistent portions | Required |
| Parchment tray | Freeze Nutella (stuffed version) | Optional |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly fluffy Nutella pancakes that will impress your family and friends. We’ll guide you through each stage to ensure your pancakes turn out golden and delicious every time.
Prep the Batter
Start by combining all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.
Create your wet mixture in the second bowl by whisking 2 large eggs until smooth. Add 1¼ cups whole milk and 3 tablespoons melted butter to the beaten eggs. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently with your whisk. Mix until the batter becomes smooth and lump-free, but avoid overmixing. Stop whisking as soon as the ingredients are uniform to prevent tough pancakes.
Create the Nutella Swirl
Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy removal. Spoon tablespoon-sized dollops of Nutella onto the prepared tray, spacing them apart to prevent sticking.
Place the tray in your freezer for 15-20 minutes until the Nutella discs become firm. This freezing step prevents the Nutella from melting too quickly when we add it to the hot pancakes.
Remove the frozen Nutella discs from the freezer just before cooking. Keep them cold until ready to use for the best results.
Cook the Pancakes
Heat your nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease the surface with butter. Test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water on the pan – they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the heated skillet for each pancake. Immediately place one frozen Nutella disc in the center of the batter, then cover with an additional tablespoon of batter to encase the Nutella completely.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip carefully using your spatula and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Work quickly to prevent the Nutella from leaking out.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer the hot pancakes to serving plates while they’re still warm. The Nutella center will be perfectly gooey at this temperature.
Dust the pancakes with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. Add fresh strawberry slices or banana rounds for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Drizzle additional warm Nutella over the top and serve with maple syrup on the side. For a dessert-style presentation, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and chopped hazelnuts.
Tips for Perfect Nutella Pancakes
Master the Nutella Preparation
Freezing Nutella into disc shapes transforms our pancake game completely. We place dollops of Nutella on parchment paper and freeze them until solid. This technique prevents the chocolate spread from bleeding through the batter during cooking. The frozen discs maintain their shape and create perfect pockets of molten Nutella inside each pancake.
Perfect Your Batter Technique
Overmixing destroys the fluffy texture we’re aiming for in our pancakes. We combine ingredients just until they come together, leaving small lumps in the batter. Accurate measurements make the difference between mediocre and exceptional results. Using measuring cups or a food scale ensures precise ratios every time.
Control Your Cooking Temperature
Medium-low heat prevents the outside from burning while the inside remains raw. We maintain steady temperature throughout the cooking process to achieve even browning. Our nonstick skillet eliminates sticking issues and makes flipping effortless. The right surface allows us to cook without excessive oil or butter.
Time Your Flipping Perfectly
Bubbles appearing on the surface signal readiness for flipping. We wait until the edges start to dry before turning our pancakes. This timing ensures the bottom develops a golden crust while the top sets properly. Premature flipping results in broken or undercooked pancakes.
Customize Your Creation
Different fillings expand our pancake possibilities beyond Nutella. We experiment with peanut butter, jam, or various chocolate spreads for unique flavors. Fresh fruits, whipped cream, or ice cream elevate the final presentation. These toppings add texture contrast and visual appeal to our finished pancakes.
Plan for Storage and Reheating
Cooked pancakes freeze successfully for up to two months when properly stored. We reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a pat of butter. This make-ahead approach allows us to enjoy fresh-tasting pancakes throughout busy weeks. Proper storage maintains texture and prevents freezer burn.
Variations and Substitutions
We love experimenting with different ways to make Nutella pancakes even more exciting. These creative variations allow us to customize our breakfast experience while maintaining that beloved chocolate-hazelnut flavor we all crave.
Creative Nutella Pancake Variations
Nutella Stuffed Pancakes remain our top recommendation for those seeking an indulgent surprise. We place dollops of Nutella directly in the center of our pancake batter and cook until the Nutella becomes warm and irresistibly gooey. This method creates delightful pockets of melted chocolate that burst with flavor in every bite.
Nutella Pancake Rolls offer an elegant twist on the traditional approach. We prepare crepe-like pancakes and fill them with Nutella alongside fresh fruit before rolling them up. A light dusting of powdered sugar transforms these rolls into a restaurant-worthy presentation that impresses guests every time.
Krusteaz Nutella Pancakes provide convenience without sacrificing taste. We use Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix to streamline our batter preparation and freeze Nutella into perfect discs for easier stuffing. This approach saves time while delivering consistently delicious results.
Smart Substitutions for Dietary Needs
Alternative Spreads expand our flavor possibilities beyond traditional Nutella. We frequently substitute other chocolate-hazelnut spreads or even peanut butter to create unique taste profiles that satisfy different preferences and dietary restrictions.
Milk Alternatives make our pancakes accessible to everyone. We substitute almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for regular dairy milk to accommodate those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies without compromising the fluffy texture.
Sugar Substitutes offer healthier sweetening options. We replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup to achieve a more complex flavor profile while reducing processed sugar content in our pancakes.
Enhancement Tips for Perfect Results
Warming Nutella before incorporation makes our mixing process significantly easier. We gently heat the Nutella to improve its spreadability and ensure even distribution throughout our pancake batter.
Strategic Add-ins elevate the texture and flavor complexity. We incorporate chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit pieces to create additional bursts of flavor and satisfying textural contrasts in every bite.
Decadent Toppings complete our Nutella pancake experience. We serve our creations with generous dustings of powdered sugar, dollops of whipped cream, or additional warm Nutella drizzles for those seeking maximum indulgence.
Storage and Reheating
We understand that these delicious Nutella pancakes deserve proper storage to maintain their fluffy texture and rich flavor for future enjoyment.
Proper Storage Methods
Refrigerator Storage: We recommend storing cooked Nutella pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This method preserves their freshness while preventing them from absorbing other flavors from nearby foods.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage we suggest cooling the pancakes completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pancakes in a Ziploc bag and freeze for up to 4 months. We’ve found this method particularly useful for meal prep or batch cooking sessions.
Effective Reheating Techniques
| Reheating Method | Time Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Toaster Oven | 2 minutes | Crispy texture |
| Stovetop | 1-2 minutes per side | Even heating |
| Microwave | 30 seconds | Quick convenience |
Toaster Oven Method: We prefer reheating frozen pancakes in a toaster oven for about 2 minutes or until thoroughly warmed. This approach restores the pancakes’ original texture while maintaining their fluffy interior.
Stovetop Reheating: We recommend warming pancakes in a dry pan over medium heat on the stovetop. This method allows us to control the heating process and achieve even temperature distribution throughout each pancake.
Microwave Option: For quick reheating we suggest microwaving frozen pancakes for approximately 30 seconds. While convenient this method works best when you need a fast breakfast solution.
Professional Storage Tips
Temperature Control: We emphasize keeping Nutella cold until use since it has a low melting point. When preparing Nutella-filled pancakes we freeze the Nutella discs until firm before assembling the pancakes to prevent bleeding during cooking.
Keeping Pancakes Warm: After cooking fresh pancakes we place them on a parchment-lined baking tray and keep them warm in a 200-degree oven. This technique ensures all pancakes stay at the perfect serving temperature while we finish cooking the entire batch.
Conclusion
These irresistible Nutella pancakes prove that you don’t need complicated techniques to create something truly special. We’ve shared everything from the basic recipe to creative variations that’ll keep your breakfast game strong for weeks to come.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – whether you’re making a quick weekend breakfast or planning an impressive brunch spread. With proper storage techniques you can even prep these beauties ahead of time.
We’re confident that once you try these fluffy chocolate-hazelnut delights you’ll never look at regular pancakes the same way. Your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will be asking for seconds before they’ve finished their first stack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Nutella pancakes different from regular pancakes?
Nutella pancakes feature rich hazelnut-chocolate spread that melts into the batter, creating gooey pockets of flavor. The Nutella adds indulgent sweetness and creates a perfect balance between crispy edges and tender centers, transforming ordinary breakfast into something extraordinary.
What ingredients do I need for Nutella pancakes?
You’ll need common pantry staples including all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, whole milk, eggs, and butter. The star ingredient is Nutella for both the batter and swirl. Optional toppings include fresh fruit, powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream, and chopped hazelnuts.
How do I prevent Nutella from bleeding through the pancake batter?
Freeze dollops of Nutella on a parchment-lined tray before cooking. These frozen Nutella discs maintain their shape during cooking and create molten pockets inside the pancakes instead of bleeding through the batter. This technique ensures perfect stuffed pancakes every time.
What equipment do I need to make perfect Nutella pancakes?
Essential equipment includes two mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a nonstick skillet, a spatula for flipping, and a ladle for portioning batter. For stuffed pancakes, you’ll also need a tray with parchment paper for freezing Nutella portions.
Can I make Nutella pancakes ahead of time?
Yes! Cooked Nutella pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container or frozen individually wrapped for up to 4 months. Reheat using a toaster oven, stovetop, or microwave to restore their fluffy texture.
What are some creative variations for Nutella pancakes?
Try Nutella Stuffed Pancakes for hidden surprises, Nutella Pancake Rolls for elegant presentation, or use Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix for convenience. You can also experiment with different fillings like nuts or fruit, and various toppings for customization.
How do I achieve the perfect cooking temperature for Nutella pancakes?
Use medium heat on a nonstick skillet to ensure even browning without burning. Watch for bubbles forming on the pancake surface before flipping. Avoid high heat which can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, especially important with Nutella-filled pancakes.
Can I make dietary substitutions in Nutella pancakes?
Yes! Use alternative spreads for different flavors, plant-based milk for dairy-free options, and sugar substitutes for reduced sweetness. You can accommodate various dietary restrictions while maintaining the delicious taste and fluffy texture of these indulgent pancakes.
