There are few things in life more indulgent, more heartwarming, and more comforting than a beautifully golden Nutella croissant French toast. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people to the breakfast table with sleepy eyes and eager appetites, just to get a bite of that crispy, chocolatey, custardy goodness.
Growing up in a home where weekend breakfasts were sacred, French toast was a ritual. But over time, the classic version evolved in our kitchen. One Saturday morning, half-awake and totally craving something sweet, I spotted croissants and a jar of Nutella. The result? A breakfast that not only woke everyone up but had them requesting repeats every weekend after.
This Nutella croissant French toast has now become a family heirloom. It’s my go-to for birthdays, brunches, and cozy Sundays when everyone deserves a little extra joy.
Why It Works
This isn’t your average French toast. The genius of Nutella croissant French toast lies in three things: texture, richness, and ease.
- Texture: Croissants are buttery, flaky, and already halfway to pastry heaven. When dipped in a custard mix and pan-fried, their layers crisp on the outside while the inside turns almost custard-like.
- Richness: Nutella. Enough said. Its velvety chocolate-hazelnut blend swirls into the croissant’s air pockets and oozes with each bite.
- Ease: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is incredibly easy to put together. In fact, if you loved the Buttery Croissant French Toast Breakfast, this version might just outshine it with its chocolatey twist.
Ingredients List for Nutella Croissant French Toast
Here’s everything you’ll need for your Nutella croissant French toast:
For the French Toast:
- 4 large croissants, preferably day-old
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter for frying
For the Filling & Topping:
- 1/2 cup Nutella (or more, no judgment!)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh strawberries or banana slices (optional)
- Whipped cream (highly recommended)
- Maple syrup or chocolate drizzle
How to Make Nutella Croissant French Toast
Step 1: Prep the Croissants
Slice the croissants in half lengthwise as you would a sandwich. Spread a generous layer of Nutella on the bottom half of each croissant, then close them up like Nutella sandwiches. Set aside.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. This custard will soak into your croissants to create that classic French toast center.
Step 3: Dip and Soak
Carefully dip each Nutella-stuffed croissant into the custard. Let them soak for about 15 seconds per side long enough to absorb, but not so long they fall apart.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Cook the croissants for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve with Flair
Place the warm Nutella croissant French toast on plates. Dust with powdered sugar, add sliced strawberries or bananas, and top with whipped cream. Drizzle with maple syrup or chocolate sauce for that extra wow factor.
Serving & Garnish Nutella Croissant French Toast
The presentation of Nutella croissant French toast is as delightful as its flavor. For that extra elegance:
- Fruits: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even grilled peaches.
- Syrups: Maple syrup adds a classic touch, but a chocolate drizzle intensifies the Nutella richness.
- Whipped Cream: A must for that dreamy finish.
- Mint Leaves: A pop of color for the plate.
You could also serve it alongside other morning treats like Slutty Brownies or a Refreshing Iced Coffee Recipe for the perfect brunch combo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest dishes can go sideways. Here are a few things to watch for:
- Over-soaking: Croissants are more delicate than bread. Too much soaking can make them soggy and hard to flip.
- Undercooked center: Don’t crank the heat too high; cook over medium heat so the custard inside sets.
- Burnt exterior: Because of the sugar and butter, these can brown quickly. Watch them carefully.
- Using fresh croissants: Slightly stale croissants absorb custard better without falling apart.
Storage & Reheating
Made a big batch of Nutella croissant French toast? Good news leftovers taste amazing!
Storage:
- Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze them individually in a zip-lock bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- For best texture, reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet with a bit of butter.
- Microwaving works, but you may lose that crispy edge.
Rita’s Note
This recipe is one of my proudest weekend breakfast creations. It’s indulgent, yes but it’s also celebratory. If you love croissants and can’t resist Nutella, this is your new go-to brunch showstopper.
For more breakfast inspirations, I also recommend checking out:
- Why Sourdough Bread Makes the Best Toast
- 15 Incredible Secrets to Perfect Hawaiian Rolls French Toast
Mix and match ideas from those with this recipe for your own unique twist!
FAQs for Nutella Croissant French Toast
Can I use other chocolate spreads?
Absolutely! Any chocolate hazelnut or even almond spread can work.
Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes on a greased baking sheet.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Try almond or oat milk and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Opt for vegan butter and a dairy-free chocolate spread.
Can I use mini croissants?
Yes! They’re great for bite-sized portions and perfect for brunch platters.
What’s the best time to serve this dish?
Brunch, holidays, birthdays, lazy weekends you name it!
Conclusion for Nutella croissant French toast
This Nutella croissant French toast is more than just breakfast it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that turns any morning into a celebration and brings out smiles from the first bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this French toast will become your new favorite. The flaky, buttery croissants and rich Nutella filling make it truly unforgettable.
Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!
Print
Nutella Croissant French Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
An easy and decadent Nutella croissant French toast made with buttery croissants, creamy custard, Nutella, eggs, and vanilla for the perfect breakfast treat.
Ingredients
4 large croissants, preferably day-old
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Nutella
Butter for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Fresh strawberries or banana slices (optional)
Whipped cream
Maple syrup or chocolate drizzle
Instructions
Slice croissants in half lengthwise and spread Nutella generously on the bottom halves. Close them to form Nutella-filled croissant sandwiches.
In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Dip each filled croissant sandwich into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 15 seconds on each side.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter.
Place the soaked croissants in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
Transfer the cooked French toast to serving plates.
Dust with powdered sugar, add sliced fruit, and top with whipped cream.
Drizzle with maple syrup or chocolate sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
Use slightly stale croissants as they absorb the custard better without falling apart. Adjust sweetness to taste. You can substitute Nutella with any chocolate-hazelnut or almond spread. Avoid soaking croissants too long to maintain structure during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: French-American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: Nutella croissant French toast, easy brunch recipe, chocolate stuffed croissant toast, sweet breakfast idea