The first time I made Nutella French Toast Sticks, it was one of those lazy weekend mornings when I wanted something sweet but also comforting. I had a loaf of bread sitting on the counter and a jar of Nutella that was begging to be used. As the bread soaked in the cinnamon egg mixture and started sizzling in the pan, my kitchen filled with that warm buttery smell that instantly makes mornings better. When I took the first bite—crispy outside, soft inside, with warm Nutella in the middle—I knew this recipe was going straight into my regular breakfast rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whenever I make Nutella French Toast Sticks, they disappear almost immediately. If you love classic French toast but want something a little more indulgent and fun, you’re going to love these. The outside gets golden and slightly crisp while the inside stays soft and filled with warm, melty Nutella. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack, and I especially love that they’re easy to dip in syrup, chocolate sauce, or powdered sugar. (See the ingredients in the next page below…)
Ingredients
- 6 slices thick bread (brioche or Texas toast works best)
- ⅓ cup Nutella
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
- Maple syrup or chocolate sauce (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dish for dipping
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
When I start making Nutella French Toast Sticks, I first trim the crusts off the bread slices. I’ve found that crustless bread rolls and seals better when filled. Then I gently flatten each slice with my hands or a rolling pin. The first time I skipped this step, the bread didn’t hold the filling very well, so now I always flatten it slightly. (See the next page below to continue steps…)
Next, I spread a thin layer of Nutella across each slice and roll the bread tightly into a log shape. I try not to overfill them because too much Nutella can leak out while cooking. Once they’re rolled up, I set them aside and start preparing the egg mixture.
In a bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until everything is smooth. The cinnamon smell always reminds me of cozy weekend breakfasts. I dip each Nutella roll quickly into the mixture, making sure it’s coated but not overly soaked.
Then I melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and place the coated rolls seam-side down in the pan. As they cook, the outside turns golden and slightly crispy while the inside warms the Nutella. I rotate them slowly so every side gets that perfect golden color. After about 3–4 minutes, they’re ready to come out of the pan.
Pro Tips for Best Results
After making this recipe many times, I’ve learned that thick bread like brioche works best. Regular sandwich bread can work, but brioche gives the sticks a softer, richer texture that tastes more like a bakery-style breakfast.
Another tip I discovered is to dip the bread quickly into the egg mixture instead of letting it soak too long. I tried soaking them once and the rolls became too soft to handle. A quick dip keeps them sturdy and easier to cook.
Finally, don’t skip cooking them on medium heat. If the heat is too high, the outside browns too fast while the inside stays cold. Cooking them slowly allows the Nutella to melt perfectly inside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made the first time was adding too much Nutella. It sounds tempting, but too much filling can spill out in the pan and burn. A thin, even layer works much better. (See the next page below to continue…)
Another mistake is skipping the flattening step. When the bread isn’t flattened slightly, it’s harder to roll tightly and the sticks may open while cooking.
I also learned not to overcrowd the pan. When I tried cooking too many sticks at once, they didn’t brown evenly. Giving them space in the skillet helps them cook better.
Finally, avoid flipping them too early. I used to move them around too much while cooking, and they lost that beautiful golden crust. Letting them sit until properly browned makes a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
When I serve Nutella French Toast Sticks, I love dusting them with powdered sugar right before bringing them to the table. The powdered sugar melts slightly over the warm sticks and makes them look extra tempting.
Sometimes I serve them with maple syrup for dipping, which balances the chocolate hazelnut flavor really nicely. It’s one of my favorite sweet-and-cozy breakfast combinations.
For an extra treat, I also like adding fresh strawberries or banana slices on the side. The fruit adds freshness that pairs perfectly with the rich Nutella filling.
Variations & Customizations
One variation I’ve tried is adding sliced bananas inside the rolls along with Nutella. The warm banana and chocolate combination makes the sticks taste almost like a dessert.
I’ve also experimented with peanut butter and Nutella together, and it creates a delicious chocolate-peanut flavor that’s incredibly satisfying.
Another fun version is coating the cooked sticks in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar. It adds a sweet, slightly crunchy finish that reminds me of churros.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If I happen to have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay good for about two days, though they’re definitely best fresh.
I’ve also frozen them before, and they reheat surprisingly well. I place the cooled sticks in a freezer bag and store them for up to a month.
To reheat, I prefer using an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave. The oven helps bring back some of that crispy exterior that makes these French toast sticks so delicious.
Conclusion
Every time I make Nutella French Toast Sticks, they turn an ordinary morning into something a little more special. I love the crispy golden outside, the soft bread, and that warm Nutella center that makes every bite feel indulgent. Whether you’re making them for brunch, a family breakfast, or just a sweet treat, these sticks are always a guaranteed hit in my kitchen.