Fluffy Nutella-Stuffed Pancakes

Not just for breakfast, these Nutella Pancakes are a decadent option for a snack or dessert. The fluffy pancake batter is simple to make, and stuffing each pancake with Nutella turns an ordinary treat into something truly special.

When I was a child we loved warm pikelets straight from the pan, spread with jam. Today I still make small, tender pancakes, but this version is a little more indulgent: frozen discs of Nutella are enclosed inside each pancake, creating a molten chocolate-hazelnut center. They’re excellent served with extra Nutella, a dusting of icing sugar, fresh strawberries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Easy and approachable: The batter uses pantry staples and comes together quickly—no special equipment required.
• Delicious contrast: The light, fluffy pancake pairs perfectly with the rich, chocolatey-hazelnut filling.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike love the surprise of warm Nutella inside a pancake, making these great for celebrations or weekend breakfasts.

For exact ingredient quantities and step-by-step instructions, see the printable recipe card in the recipe section below.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that combine to make a tender, flavorful pancake with a hidden Nutella center:

• Nutella or similar chocolate-hazelnut spread — the star of the filling.
• All-purpose flour and baking powder — for structure and lift.
• Sugar — a little sweetness enhances the batter.
• Large egg — helps bind and enrich the batter.
• Milk — whole milk gives the best richness; lower-fat milks work too.
• Butter, melted — adds flavor and helps the batter brown; unsalted is fine if you add a pinch of salt.
• Vanilla extract — use pure vanilla for best flavor.

How to make Nutella pancakes

Making these pancakes involves two straightforward components: freezing small discs of Nutella, and preparing a light pancake batter. The frozen Nutella keeps its shape while you cook, creating a molten center once the pancake is flipped and warmed through.

How to make pancake batter

The pancake batter is quick to make and forgiving. The keys are to combine wet and dry ingredients gently and to avoid overmixing so the pancakes stay tender:

1. Sift flour, baking powder, sugar and a pinch of salt into a bowl.
2. Whisk the egg, milk, melted butter and vanilla together in a separate bowl.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined; a few small lumps are fine.
4. Rest briefly if desired; do not over-whisk or the batter will become tough.

How to cook Nutella pancakes

Work efficiently when cooking, because the frozen Nutella discs soften quickly. It helps to prepare one or two pancakes at a time unless you have an assistant.

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
2. Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and spread it to a 3-inch (7½ cm) circle using the back of a spoon.
3. Quickly press one frozen Nutella disc into the center of the batter, then use a couple of teaspoons of reserved batter to cover the disc so it is enclosed.
4. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, then gently lift one edge to check that the underside is golden. Flip and cook briefly on the other side to finish.
5. Repeat with the remaining batter and frozen discs, keeping unused Nutella discs in the freezer.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, with extra Nutella, fresh berries, or ice cream as desired.

Variations

The batter works beautifully for plain pancakes or for other fillings. Instead of frozen Nutella discs you can top pancakes with fresh fruit such as banana or berries for a lighter option. If you prefer a thicker, fluffier pancake, increase the baking powder slightly (see notes in the recipe card for exact guidance).

For a dessert presentation, serve Nutella-stuffed pancakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warmed Nutella or chocolate sauce. Leftover Nutella can be used in cakes, cookies or simply enjoyed on toast.

Nutella Stuffed Pancakes