Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake

If you’ve ever dreamed of a breakfast that feels like dessert, this Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake is it. Imagine layers of fluffy French bread soaked in sweet cinnamon custard, stuffed with creamy peanut butter and rich Nutella, then baked until golden and soft inside. It’s warm, gooey, and completely irresistible—perfect for lazy weekends, holidays, or when you want to treat yourself. Trust me, this one’s a showstopper.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born one cozy Sunday morning when I wanted something indulgent but easy to make. Instead of flipping individual French toast slices, I turned the idea into a baked version that could feed a crowd. The addition of Nutella and peanut butter came naturally—because why not make breakfast taste like dessert? It’s now my go-to brunch dish whenever I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

French toast has roots that go all the way back to ancient Rome, where cooks soaked stale bread in milk and eggs before frying it. Over time, every culture made it their own. This baked version is inspired by the classic French toast casserole but adds a twist of American nostalgia with peanut butter and Nutella. It’s the ultimate comfort fusion—part breakfast, part dessert, and 100% delicious.

Why You’ll Love Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake

This dish has something for everyone—sweet, creamy, and beautifully decadent.

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients you probably already have.

Quick and Easy: No need to stand by the stove flipping slices.

Customizable: Adjust the fillings or toppings to suit your cravings.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves Nutella and peanut butter.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before for a stress-free morning.

Great for Leftovers: Just reheat and enjoy all over again.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

The secret to this recipe’s success lies in balancing richness with texture. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Use day-old French bread so it absorbs the custard without getting soggy.
• Don’t skip the graham cracker crumbs—they add a lovely crunch to the top.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking so it sets nicely.
• Warm the Nutella slightly before spreading—it makes layering easier.
• A drizzle of extra cream or syrup right before serving takes it over the top.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much, but having the right tools makes this bake smooth sailing.

Mixing bowls: For preparing the custard and filling.
Whisk: To mix the eggs, cream, and sugar.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy.
Baking dish: A medium rectangular or square dish works best.
Spatula: For spreading the peanut butter and Nutella layers.

Ingredients in Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake

Every ingredient has its place in building that irresistible flavor and texture.

1. Eggs: 3 large. The backbone of the custard that holds everything together.
2. Salt: ¼ teaspoon. Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
3. Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon. Adds warm, aromatic depth.
4. Cane sugar: ⅔ cup. Sweetens the custard perfectly.
5. Milk: 1 cup. Helps soften the bread and create a creamy texture.
6. Heavy cream: 1 cup for custard and ⅓ cup for the filling. Adds richness and smoothness.
7. Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon. Brings cozy warmth and spice.
8. Graham crackers: 3 full sheets, finely crushed. Adds crunch and texture on top.
9. French bread: 1 loaf, preferably day-old. Absorbs the custard beautifully.
10. Peanut butter: ½ cup. Creamy and nutty, for the filling.
11. Powdered sugar: ½ cup. Sweetens the peanut butter filling.
12. Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for the filling. Adds flavor depth.
13. Nutella: 2 cups. The star of the show, giving that rich chocolate-hazelnut swirl.

Ingredient Substitutions

Missing something? These swaps will still give great results.

French bread: Use brioche, challah, or croissants for extra richness.
Cane sugar: Substitute with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Peanut butter: Almond butter or cookie butter works beautifully.
Nutella: Swap with chocolate ganache or hazelnut spread.

Ingredient Spotlight

French Bread: The sturdy texture of day-old French bread makes it ideal—it soaks up the custard without turning mushy.

Nutella: Creamy, chocolaty, and slightly nutty, it melts into the bread layers, creating that signature gooey swirl.

Instructions for Making Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake

Here’s the fun part—assembling and baking this delicious masterpiece.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, vanilla, cane sugar, milk, heavy cream, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Slice the French bread into thick slices, about 1 inch each. Arrange half the slices in the bottom of the dish.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, ⅓ cup heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla until creamy. Spread this mixture over the bread layer, then spread Nutella on top. Add the remaining bread slices over the filling.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle crushed graham crackers and half the remaining Nutella on top. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is just set.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with warm Nutella or cream before serving. Enjoy warm for the ultimate comfort breakfast.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes this bake magical is the contrast: crispy edges, soft custardy center, and gooey pockets of Nutella and peanut butter. The graham cracker topping adds crunch, while the cinnamon custard brings all the cozy notes together. Every bite is rich, sweet, and perfectly balanced.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use stale bread—it soaks up the custard better.
• Don’t overbake; it should be set but still soft inside.
• Warm the Nutella and peanut butter slightly for smoother spreading.
• Add sliced bananas for an extra indulgent twist.

What to Avoid

A few things to keep in mind for flawless results:

• Avoid using fresh bread—it gets too soggy.
• Don’t skimp on soaking time or the flavor won’t penetrate.
• Resist overmixing the peanut butter filling; it should stay creamy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 480
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake straight from the fridge the next morning, adding 5 extra minutes to cook time. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warm.

How to Serve Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of Nutella, or a scoop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a breakfast-meets-dessert vibe.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Slice cold leftovers and pan-fry them in butter for a crispy edge.
• Turn into dessert by topping with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.
• Make French toast sandwiches with leftover slices and fruit.

Additional Tips

• Add a pinch of sea salt to the top before baking for balance.
• Use chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
• Serve directly from the dish for a rustic, homey feel.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve this bake in a white ceramic dish for contrast against the rich, dark swirls of Nutella. Top with powdered sugar, crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of peanut butter. For a special occasion, garnish with chocolate curls or roasted nuts.

Variations to Try

• Banana Split Bake: Add sliced bananas between layers.
• Berry Swirl: Add raspberry preserves for a fruity twist.
• Cookie Butter Dream: Replace peanut butter with cookie butter.
• Mocha Version: Add espresso powder to the custard.
• S’mores Twist: Mix mini marshmallows with the graham cracker topping.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this without peanut butter?
Yes, you can use just Nutella or swap peanut butter for cookie butter.

Q2: Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, brioche or challah work beautifully for a richer texture.

Q3: Can I prep it overnight?
Absolutely. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning.

Q4: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk, cream, and chocolate spread alternatives.

Q6: Can I reduce the sweetness?
Cut the sugar in half and it will still taste great.

Q7: How do I know it’s done baking?
The top should be golden and slightly crisp, and the center just set.

Q8: Can I make it smaller?
Yes, halve the recipe and bake in a smaller dish.

Q9: Can I use almond butter?
Definitely—it adds a lovely nutty flavor.

Q10: Can I serve it cold?
You can, but it’s best enjoyed warm and gooey.

Conclusion

Nutella Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast Bake is pure comfort in every bite—rich, creamy, and filled with layers of chocolatey, nutty sweetness. Whether you’re making it for brunch, holidays, or just because you deserve something indulgent, this dish will make your kitchen smell amazing and your guests swoon. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.

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