Nutella French Toast Casserole

Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm cinnamon, rich chocolate, and buttery brioche filling your kitchen. Nutella French Toast Casserole is the perfect indulgence for a weekend brunch or special occasion. This baked delight combines the crisp edges of classic French toast with the creamy decadence of Nutella, all in one easy-to-make dish. Soft, custard-soaked bread pieces are layered with luscious hazelnut spread and baked to golden perfection, creating a balance of textures that will have everyone coming back for more.

Not only is this casserole incredibly delicious, but it also makes breakfast effortless. Since you can prepare it the night before, it’s a stress-free way to serve a crowd without standing over the stove flipping individual slices of French toast. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself, this Nutella-infused masterpiece is bound to impress.

Ingredients for Nutella French Toast Casserole

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
1 cup Nutella, softened
5 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Fresh berries, for serving (optional)
Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Nutella

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Cut the brioche or challah bread into bite-sized cubes and place half of them in an even layer in the dish. Warm the Nutella slightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until it becomes spreadable. Drizzle or dollop half of the Nutella over the bread layer. Then, add the remaining bread cubes on top and finish with the rest of the Nutella, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy. Slowly pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and Nutella, making sure every piece gets soaked. Lightly press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Let it Rest

For the best results, cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or, ideally, overnight. This resting time allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, resulting in a rich and fluffy texture when baked. If you’re in a hurry, let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before baking.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, drizzle the melted butter over the top for extra crispiness. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The casserole should be set in the center but still soft.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation. Drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness, and enjoy this warm, chocolatey delight with a cup of coffee or milk!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm the entire casserole in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories: ~420
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Protein: ~10g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Sugar: ~30g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~250mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! While brioche and challah create the softest, fluffiest texture, you can also use French bread, sourdough, or even croissants for a richer taste.

2. Can I make this without Nutella?

Absolutely! You can substitute Nutella with peanut butter, almond butter, or even a fruit jam for a different twist.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it overnight for a stress-free breakfast.

4. How do I prevent my casserole from being too soggy?

Make sure your bread is slightly stale or toasted before using it. Fresh bread can absorb too much liquid, leading to a mushy texture.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk and heavy cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free chocolate spread instead of Nutella.

6. What toppings pair well with this casserole?

Fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup all work wonderfully. You can even add chopped nuts for extra crunch.

7. Can I bake this in a smaller dish?

If using a smaller dish, the casserole may take longer to bake. Keep an eye on it and adjust the baking time as needed.

8. How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The center should be set and no longer jiggly, and the top should be golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean or with minimal moisture.