If there’s one dessert that truly captures the joy of a Parisian morning or a cozy weekend breakfast, it’s the Nutella crepe. Warm, soft, and just slightly crisp on the edges, these paper-thin French pancakes are filled with creamy hazelnut spread and folded into a handheld treat that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Whether you’re making breakfast for the family or recreating that perfect street-food moment from your last trip to Paris, this Nutella crepe recipe is the one to bookmark. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to make them just right — from batter consistency to the best crepe pan and topping ideas.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Nutella Crepe Recipe
- What Is a Crepe?
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toppings & Variations
- Expert Tips for Success
- How to Serve
- Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- FAQs
- Recipe Card
- Nutrition Info
Why You’ll Love This Nutella Crepe Recipe
A perfect nutella crepe is:
- Soft and delicate with no dryness or rubbery texture
- Easy to fold or roll without breaking
- Infused with buttery richness
- Balanced: sweet but not overly so
Whether you’re enjoying it solo or pairing it with a latte, this classic French treat is a versatile option for any time of day.
And if you love buttery French classics, you’ll also enjoy our Golden Buttery Croissant Sandwich and the savory Croque Monsieur — both are perfect complements for a French-style brunch menu.
Behind the Recipe: Why I Always Come Back to the Nutella Crepe
As someone who has lived and cooked in Paris, there’s a deep nostalgia tied to the nutella crepe. The first time I tasted one was from a food cart on the Left Bank — wrapped in parchment, still steaming, with Nutella just beginning to melt through the folded layers of crepe. I remember sitting by the Seine with the Eiffel Tower in view, savoring each bite as though time had slowed down.
That first crepe wasn’t fancy. It was made with simple ingredients, handed to me in under a minute, and yet it left a lasting impression. There’s something about the texture of a thin crepe — tender yet structured — combined with warm Nutella that’s uniquely satisfying. It doesn’t matter if you’re five years old or fifty: the comfort it delivers is universal.
Now that I’m back in Virginia, I find myself returning to this nutella crepe recipe anytime I need a breakfast or dessert that brings joy to the table without requiring a pastry degree. It’s an ideal mix of indulgence and simplicity — something that feels homemade but still incredibly special.
If you’re new to making crepes, don’t be intimidated. This recipe is intentionally beginner-friendly. Once you master the swirl of the pan, you’ll find it becomes second nature — a quick go-to whenever you want to impress guests or treat yourself to something sweet and cozy.
The Best Tools for Making Nutella Crepes
If you plan to make nutella crepes more than once, investing in the right tools can take your results from good to excellent. Here are my essentials:
- Crepe Pan or Nonstick Skillet: A flat, low-rimmed pan (about 9–10 inches) ensures even cooking and easy flipping.
- Crepe Spreader (T-shaped wooden tool): Helps you swirl the batter evenly in one motion — especially helpful for ultra-thin crepes.
- Offset Spatula or Rubber Turner: Makes it easier to flip crepes without tearing them.
- Batter Resting Bowl with Lid: So you can refrigerate or rest the batter without transferring it again.
None of these are strictly required, but if you’re serving brunch regularly or want that authentic French texture, they make the process much smoother. And yes — even the Nutella spreads more evenly with the right tools.
Hosting a Crepe Brunch? Here’s How to Make It Effortless
If you’re planning a brunch, a nutella crepe station can be a brilliant centerpiece. It’s interactive, fun, and lets your guests get creative. Here’s how to make it easy:
- Make the Crepes in Advance: Stack them between parchment paper and reheat in a dry pan or low oven.
- Set Up a Topping Bar: Nutella, sliced bananas, strawberries, whipped cream, toasted nuts, powdered sugar, honey, and even crushed graham crackers.
- Offer Savory Options Too: Crepes don’t have to be sweet. Include ham, cheese, eggs, and sautéed mushrooms.
- Label the Toppings: Use small chalkboard tags or printed labels to make it feel like a real café.
- Serve with French Beverages: Think strong coffee, hot chocolate, or even a mimosa pitcher.
It pairs beautifully with dishes like our Golden Buttery Croissant Sandwich or Croque Monsieur, making your table feel like a French bistro without leaving home.
What Is a Crepe?
A crepe is a thin, delicate pancake originating from France. Unlike American pancakes, crepes are not fluffy but instead soft, pliable, and buttery. They’re traditionally served with sweet fillings (like Nutella, sugar, fruit, or jam) or savory options like ham and cheese.
Nutella crepes have become one of the most iconic street foods across France and the world. You’ll find them made to order on hot skillets, then folded into quarters or rolled and topped with powdered sugar or whipped cream.
Want a more basic version first? Try this easy basic crepe recipe from Delish, which offers a simple crepe foundation you can adapt before moving on to Nutella-filled variations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Nutella for spreading (about 1 tbsp per crepe)
- Optional: powdered sugar, banana slices, strawberries, whipped cream
Prefer homemade? You can also make your own rich, chocolatey hazelnut spread with this easy Homemade Nutella recipe from Delish. It’s a great option for avoiding additives and adjusting sweetness to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Add flour, milk, and water. Mix until smooth. Stir in melted butter, salt, and vanilla. Let the batter rest for 20–30 minutes.
Step 2: Heat Your Pan
Use a nonstick crepe pan or a flat skillet over medium heat. Lightly butter the surface.
Step 3: Cook the Crepes
Pour ¼ cup of batter into the pan. Immediately tilt and swirl to cover the bottom. Cook for 60–90 seconds until edges lift and bottom is golden. Flip gently and cook for 20–30 seconds more.
Step 4: Fill with Nutella
Remove the crepe to a plate. Spread with 1 tablespoon of Nutella while still warm. Fold into quarters or roll tightly.
Repeat with remaining batter. You should get 8–10 crepes.
Toppings & Variations
Here are some ways to take your Nutella crepe to the next level:
- Sliced bananas or strawberries
- Chopped hazelnuts or almonds
- Dollop of whipped cream
- Drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
- Dusting of powdered sugar
You can even make a dessert crepe bar by offering toppings in small bowls.
If you’re looking for even more ways to dress up your nutella crepe, explore this collection of 17 Dessert Crepe Recipes on AllRecipes. From fruit-filled variations to custard and caramel, the possibilities are endless.
Expert Tips for Success
- Rest the batter: Always let your batter sit for at least 20 minutes for best texture.
- Use the right pan: A 9–10” nonstick or crepe-specific pan makes flipping easier.
- Butter lightly: Too much butter causes greasy spots. Just brush lightly between crepes.
- Don’t overfill: A thin spread of Nutella is all you need — it melts beautifully.
- Keep warm: Stack crepes on a plate and cover with foil while you finish cooking.
How to Serve Nutella Crepes
Crepes can be served:
- Rolled like a cigar
- Folded into triangles or quarters
- Stacked with toppings in between
They pair beautifully with:
- Cappuccino
- Fresh orange juice
- A dollop of Greek yogurt for balance
This recipe also makes a beautiful brunch centerpiece next to our Golden Buttery Croissant Sandwich and Croque Monsieur.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerator: Store crepes (without filling) for up to 2 days. Layer with parchment to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or warm gently in a skillet.
To Reheat: Microwave filled crepes for 15–20 seconds or heat in a skillet with a little butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Stir before using.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Do I need a crepe pan?
Not strictly, but it helps. A flat-bottomed 9” nonstick skillet also works.
How do I avoid tearing the crepes?
Use medium heat, rest the batter, and flip only once. Avoid overcooking.
PrintNutella Crepe Recipe – Easy, Authentic & Irresistible French Favorite
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 crepes 1x
Description
Soft and buttery homemade French crepes filled with Nutella and optional toppings. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Nutella for filling
- Optional toppings: banana, strawberries, whipped cream
Instructions
- Whisk all ingredients until smooth. Let batter rest 20–30 minutes.
- Heat nonstick pan over medium heat and lightly butter.
- Pour ¼ cup batter, swirl, and cook for 1 minute. Flip and cook 30 seconds.
- Spread Nutella while crepe is warm. Fold and serve.
- Add toppings if desired.
Notes
Letting the batter rest improves texture. Keep crepes warm in foil. Use a crepe pan if possible.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crepe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg