Pin it The dawn chorus had just begun outside my kitchen window when I first experimented with Nutella Brioche French Toast. Steam rose from my coffee mug as I spread that first dollop of chocolate hazelnut goodness between pillowy brioche slices. The kitchen filled with vanilla-scented warmth as the bread hit the sizzling pan, creating that unmistakable weekend morning soundtrack. Within minutes, something magical had happened – breakfast had transformed into what felt suspiciously like dessert.
My sister dropped by unexpectedly one Sunday morning, looking thoroughly defeated after a rough work week. Words werent needed – I silently pulled out the brioche and Nutella. The transformation on her face as she took that first bite of golden, chocolate-oozing toast was worth every calorie. We sat in comfortable silence, sticky-fingered and content, as the morning stretched lazily before us. Sometimes comfort comes wrapped in brioche and chocolate rather than conversation.
Ingredients
- Brioche bread: Its higher egg and butter content makes all the difference, creating a custardy interior that regular bread simply cannot achieve.
- Nutella: The way it slightly melts inside the warm toast creates pockets of chocolatey bliss – room temperature spread works best for even application.
- Heavy cream: I discovered this creates a richer custard than using just milk, giving the toast a velvety texture that elevates it from ordinary to restaurant-quality.
- Vanilla extract: Use the real stuff if possible, as it adds subtle complexity that plays beautifully against the chocolate notes.
Instructions
- Create your chocolate sandwiches:
- Spread Nutella generously but not quite to the edges, as it will melt and spread during cooking. Press the top slice gently to seal the edges slightly.
- Make your magic dip:
- Whisk the custard ingredients until the mixture looks uniform and slightly frothy. A wide, shallow bowl works best for dipping the sandwiches evenly.
- Soak with purpose:
- Dip each sandwich quickly but thoroughly, counting to three on each side. You want the bread saturated but not falling apart in your hands.
- Master the golden sizzle:
- Listen for that satisfying hiss as the soaked bread hits the buttered pan. Resist the urge to flip too early – wait until the edges look set and golden.
- Finish with flair:
- A snow-like dusting of powdered sugar makes all the difference visually. The contrast of fresh berries cuts through the richness perfectly.
Pin it Last Christmas morning, with wrapping paper still scattered across the living room floor, I silently slipped away to the kitchen. The house fell quiet as everyone took their first bites of the Nutella Brioche French Toast Id been perfecting all year. My father-in-law, a man of few words and fewer compliments, simply pushed his empty plate forward and asked, Is there more? In our family, thats the equivalent of a standing ovation.
Make-Ahead Options
Ive learned through countless Saturday morning experiments that you can assemble the Nutella sandwiches the night before and keep them wrapped in the refrigerator. The custard mixture can also be prepared ahead and stored in a sealed container overnight. This prep work makes morning assembly almost effortless, which is precisely what you want when coffee hasnt yet worked its magic on your coordination.
Flavor Variations
A spoonful of orange zest added to the custard mixture creates a chocolate-orange combination that tastes surprisingly sophisticated. On a summer morning when the farmers market had gifted me with perfect raspberries, I pressed a few between the Nutella layers, and the slight tartness against the sweet chocolate was nothing short of revelatory. During the holiday season, a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg in the custard transforms this into a festive treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa.
Serving Suggestions
The way you serve this indulgent breakfast sets the tone for how it will be enjoyed. I learned this lesson when I presented it on my grandmothers vintage china for a special birthday breakfast, and somehow it tasted even better than when eaten directly from the pan. Warming the maple syrup creates a lovely contrast with the cool berries, while a dollop of lightly whipped cream turns breakfast into an event.
- For an adults-only brunch, serve alongside mimosas with a splash of Grand Marnier to echo the orange notes if youve added zest to your batter.
- A side of crispy bacon provides the perfect salty counterpoint to the sweet richness of the French toast.
- Offer a variety of toppings in small bowls so everyone can customize their plate – toasted hazelnuts, fresh fruit, different syrups, or whipped mascarpone.
Pin it This Nutella Brioche French Toast isnt just breakfast; its permission to start your day with joy. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in peaceful solitude, its a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful moments happen around the simplest pleasures.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular bread instead of brioche?
Yes, you can substitute challah or thick-cut soft white bread. Brioche works best due to its buttery texture and slight sweetness, but other enriched breads will still produce delicious results.
- → How do I prevent the Nutella from leaking out?
Spread Nutella in the center of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges. Press the sandwich slices together firmly and avoid over-soaking in the custard, which can cause the sandwich to fall apart during cooking.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
These are best served immediately for optimal texture. However, you can prepare the Nutella sandwiches in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Dip and cook just before serving for the freshest taste.
- → What temperature should the pan be?
Use medium heat to ensure the custard cooks through without burning the exterior. If the bread browns too quickly before the egg sets, reduce the heat slightly and cook a bit longer on each side.
- → Can I add other fillings besides Nutella?
Absolutely! Try adding sliced bananas, strawberries, or a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts inside the sandwich for extra flavor and texture. Peanut butter or cookie butter also make excellent alternatives to Nutella.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the bread soggy. For best results, enjoy fresh and hot off the skillet.