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Let me share my family's favorite weekend breakfast that never fails to get everyone out of bed. These Nutella pancakes are pure morning magic combining fluffy pancakes with rich chocolate hazelnut goodness. The moment that Nutella starts melting into those warm pancakes you'll understand why this recipe is so special.
What Makes These Special
My kids call these 'chocolate cloud pancakes' because they're so light and airy while being incredibly indulgent. They come together quickly which means less time cooking and more time enjoying breakfast together.
Everything You Need
- All-purpose flour: The base for soft, fluffy pancakes.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a hint of chocolate without overpowering the Nutella flavor.
- Nutella: The star ingredient for that unmistakable chocolate hazelnut taste.
- Milk: Whole milk or plant-based alternatives work well.
- Coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor and ensures a smooth batter.
- Eggs: Provide structure and help the pancakes rise.
- Leaveners: Baking soda and baking powder create the fluffiest texture.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor profile.
Let's Make Pancakes
- Starting Right
- First things first get all your ingredients measured and ready. I've learned the hard way that scrambling for ingredients with a hot pan waiting isn't fun!
- The Perfect Mix
- Combine those wet and dry ingredients separately then bring them together with gentle folds. Those little lumps? They're your friends.
- Griddle Time
- Watch for those bubbles on top that's your signal to flip. Each pancake is like a little work of art.
My Best Tips
Here's what I've learned from countless Sunday mornings making these: warm that milk before mixing with Nutella it makes everything blend so much smoother. And don't skip buttering the pan between batches it makes such a difference in texture.
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Making Them Beautiful
I love getting creative with toppings. A sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts some fresh berries and that warm Nutella drizzle makes these pancakes look like they came from a fancy café. Sometimes I'll add a dollop of whipped cream just because.
Saving For Later
These pancakes freeze beautifully which is perfect for busy mornings. I'll make a big batch on weekends line them up on a baking sheet to freeze then transfer them to a container. A quick pop in the toaster and breakfast is ready.
Mini Magic
Making mini versions of these is so much fun. My kids love them for their 'fancy' breakfast parties. Plus they're perfect for brunch buffets everyone can try them without feeling too full.
Perfect Pairs
Nothing beats these pancakes with a good cup of coffee. I love making hazelnut lattes to match but even plain milk works beautifully. It's all about that creamy chocolate combination.
Little Extras
Sometimes I'll add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt to the batter. These tiny additions make the chocolate flavor pop in the most amazing way.
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Stack Them High
Want to really impress? Layer these beauties with extra Nutella between each pancake. Top the stack with a crown of whipped cream and crushed hazelnuts. It's absolutely indulgent and worth every bite.
Gluten Free Friends
My gluten-free neighbor taught me how to adapt these using cup-for-cup gluten-free flour. They come out just as fluffy and delicious everyone can enjoy them.
Dessert Time
Who says pancakes are just for breakfast? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and you've got an amazing dessert. The warm pancake with cold ice cream is simply heavenly.
Extra Crunch
Adding chopped nuts to the batter creates these wonderful surprise pockets of crunch. It's like having little treasure bites in your pancakes.
Plant-Based Version
For my vegan friends I use plant milk and a flax egg substitute. There are some great vegan chocolate hazelnut spreads out there that work perfectly in this recipe.
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Celebration Style
For birthdays I'll add colorful sprinkles to the batter. The way they peek through makes these pancakes feel extra festive and special.
Meal Prep Winner
These are my secret weapon for busy weeks. I'll make extra on Sunday store them properly and we have amazing breakfasts ready to go all week long.
Waffle Wonder
This batter works beautifully in the waffle iron too. Those little squares fill up with Nutella creating perfect pockets of chocolatey goodness.
Mix Up The Spread
While Nutella is classic I sometimes experiment with other spreads. Cookie butter creates an interesting spice flavor and almond butter adds a lovely nuttiness.
Kid's Corner
My little ones love helping make fun shapes with cookie cutters. Hearts stars even Mickey Mouse ears anything goes! It makes breakfast time so much more entertaining.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why warm the milk?
- Warm milk helps Nutella melt and incorporate evenly into batter. Cold milk makes Nutella stiffen and creates uneven spots.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Yes, freeze on wax paper lined sheet then transfer to freezer bag. Reheat in toaster or oven.
- → Why add coffee?
- Coffee enhances chocolate flavor. Regular or decaf both work well.
- → Why not overmix?
- Overmixing develops gluten making tough pancakes. Some lumps are fine and ensure tender texture.