These Nutella stuffed pancakes are a delightful twist on classic breakfast favorites. Soft, fluffy pancakes hide a rich, gooey chocolate hazelnut center that melts beautifully when cooked. Perfect for weekend mornings or special treats, they combine simple ingredients with an indulgent surprise inside every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pancakes are incredibly satisfying thanks to their soft texture and warm, melted Nutella center. They feel like a dessert but are easy enough to prepare for breakfast. The recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, so there’s no need for anything fancy. You can also customize them with toppings like fruits, powdered sugar, or syrup to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, these pancakes bring a fun and comforting experience to the table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup Nutella (frozen into small discs before cooking)
Butter or oil for cooking
Directions
Start by preparing the Nutella filling. Spoon small portions of Nutella onto a lined tray and freeze them for about 30–45 minutes until firm. This makes it easier to handle and ensures it stays in the center of the pancakes while cooking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy; avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes soft.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Pour a small amount of batter onto the pan to form a pancake base. Place a frozen Nutella disc in the center, then cover it with a little more batter to fully enclose the filling.
Cook the pancake for about 2–3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Carefully flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter and Nutella discs.
Serve immediately while warm so the Nutella center remains soft and melted.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 to 8 pancakes, depending on size, and serves 2 to 3 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, plus 30–45 minutes for freezing the Nutella. Cooking time is around 15 minutes, making the total time about 1 hour.
Variations
You can switch things up by adding sliced bananas or strawberries on top for a fruity balance. For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds over the pancakes before serving. If you prefer a different filling, try peanut butter or a thick chocolate spread alternative. For a slightly healthier version, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar slightly. You can also make mini pancakes for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a pan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave for about 20–30 seconds. If freezing, stack the pancakes with parchment paper between each one and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster oven or skillet for best results.
FAQs
Can I skip freezing the Nutella?
Freezing is highly recommended because it prevents the Nutella from spreading too quickly during cooking and helps keep it centered.
Can I use a different chocolate spread?
Yes, any thick chocolate or nut-based spread works well as a substitute.
Why are my pancakes not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can make pancakes dense. Mix gently until just combined.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to use the batter immediately, but you can refrigerate it for up to 12 hours if needed.
What heat level should I use?
Medium heat works best to cook the pancakes evenly without burning them.
How do I know when to flip the pancake?
Flip when bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute milk with plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely. Syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream all pair well.
Why is the Nutella leaking out?
This can happen if the Nutella isn’t fully sealed with batter or wasn’t frozen long enough.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients while keeping the cooking method the same.
Conclusion
Nutella stuffed pancakes are a fun and indulgent way to upgrade your breakfast routine. With their fluffy texture and rich, gooey center, they offer a perfect balance of comfort and sweetness. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is ideal for both special mornings and everyday treats. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
