These incredible viral oven pancakes with Nutella have completely revolutionized the pancake game and taken social media by storm. Instead of spending time flipping individual pancakes, this genius recipe creates one large, fluffy pancake in the oven that’s then spread with creamy Nutella and rolled into perfect spirals. The result is a show-stopping dessert that looks professionally made but requires minimal effort and has everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
For the Oven Pancake Base:
- Eggs: 2 large eggs
- Vanilla sugar: 2 sachets (16g / 2 tablespoons regular sugar + 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- Cold milk: 400ml (1⅔ cups)
- Salt: 1 pinch
- Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons (45ml)
- All-purpose flour: 160g (1⅓ cups)
For the Nutella Filling:
- Nutella or chocolate hazelnut spread: 150g (⅔ cup)
- Powdered sugar: for dusting (optional)
Optional Enhancements:
- Chopped hazelnuts: 50g (½ cup)
- Fresh strawberries: sliced for serving
- Whipped cream: for serving
- Vanilla ice cream: for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating the Perfect Pancake Batter
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F / Gas Mark 6). Line a large baking sheet (approximately 40x30cm / 16×12 inches) with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends slightly up the sides to prevent spillage.
Step 2: Beat the Egg Base In a large mixing bowl, crack the two eggs and add the vanilla sugar sachets. If using regular sugar and vanilla extract, combine them now. Whisk the eggs and sugar together vigorously until the mixture becomes light, frothy, and well combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes of continuous whisking.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients Slowly pour the cold milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. The cold temperature of the milk is crucial for achieving the right texture. Add the pinch of salt and three tablespoons of oil, whisking until everything is thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Start by adding about half the flour, whisk until smooth, then add the remaining flour. Continue whisking until you achieve a completely smooth batter with the consistency of heavy cream. Let the batter rest for 2-3 minutes.
Baking the Pancake
Step 5: Pour and Spread Pour the smooth batter onto your prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface. The batter should be approximately 1cm (½ inch) thick and cover the pan uniformly. Gently tap the pan to release any air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Start checking at 18 minutes – the pancake is ready when it’s golden brown on top, springs back when lightly touched, and the edges are slightly crispy. Avoid overbaking as this will make rolling difficult.
Assembling the Nutella Rolls
Step 7: Cool and Prepare Nutella Remove the pancake from the oven and let it cool for 3-4 minutes until it’s warm but comfortable to handle. While it’s cooling, if your Nutella is thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make spreading easier.
Step 8: Spread the Nutella Working quickly while the pancake is still warm and pliable, spread the Nutella evenly across the entire surface using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent spillage when rolling.
Step 9: Cut and Roll Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pancake into strips approximately 8-10cm (3-4 inches) wide. Starting from one short end, carefully roll each strip into a tight spiral. The warmth of the pancake will make it pliable and easy to roll without cracking.
Step 10: Final Presentation Arrange the rolled pancakes on a serving platter and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve immediately while still warm for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information and Timing
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Baking Time: 18-20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 6-8 people (makes 8-10 rolls)
Nutritional Profile (per roll):
- Calories: Approximately 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: Good source (from milk)
- Iron: Small amount (from flour)
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
Alternative Spreads
While Nutella is the classic choice, experiment with other delicious spreads. Peanut butter creates a rich, nutty flavor, while almond butter offers a more sophisticated taste. Cookie butter provides an indulgent twist, and cream cheese mixed with jam creates a cheesecake-like filling.
Fruit Combinations
Fresh fruits pair beautifully with the Nutella base. Sliced strawberries, bananas, or raspberries can be added before rolling for extra flavor and nutrition. Dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates add interesting texture and concentrated sweetness.
Nut and Texture Additions
Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts over the Nutella before rolling for added crunch. Coconut flakes, crushed cookies, or even mini chocolate chips create delightful textural contrasts.
Seasonal Variations
Customize your pancakes for different seasons. Add orange zest to the Nutella for a citrus twist, incorporate pumpkin spice in autumn, or use white chocolate spread with dried strawberries for a Valentine’s Day special.
Dietary Modifications
For dairy-free versions, substitute the milk with plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use dairy-free chocolate spread instead of traditional Nutella. Gluten-free flour can replace regular flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to use cold milk specifically? Cold milk prevents the eggs from cooking when mixed together and helps create the proper batter consistency. It also contributes to the tender, fluffy texture of the final pancake. Room temperature or warm milk can result in a tougher pancake that’s harder to roll.
Can I make the pancake ahead of time? The pancake is best served fresh and warm for optimal rolling and texture. However, you can prepare the batter up to 4 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The finished rolls can be stored for up to 2 days and gently rewarmed before serving.
What should I do if my pancake cracks when rolling? If the pancake has cooled too much, it may crack when rolling. Warm it briefly in a low oven (150°C / 300°F) for 2-3 minutes to restore pliability. Also, ensure you’re not rolling too tightly initially – start loose and gradually tighten.
Can I freeze these Nutella pancake rolls? Yes, the rolls freeze well for up to 2 months. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving, and warm slightly if desired.
How do I prevent the Nutella from being too thick to spread? If your Nutella is too thick, warm it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or place the jar in warm water for a few minutes. This makes it much easier to spread evenly without tearing the delicate pancake.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
These viral Nutella pancake rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or afternoon snacks. Serve them warm with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. They pair wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or milk.
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 150°C (300°F) oven for 5-8 minutes until heated through.
For entertaining, these rolls can be made slightly ahead and kept warm in a low oven. They’re perfect for brunch buffets, birthday parties, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
The visual appeal of these rolls makes them incredibly photogenic, which explains their viral social media success. The contrast between the golden pancake and rich chocolate creates stunning photos that are sure to get likes and shares.
This revolutionary viral recipe proves that sometimes the simplest innovations create the biggest sensations. The combination of ease, elegance, and incredible taste makes these Nutella oven pancakes a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, understanding exactly why everyone has gone crazy for this Instagram-famous treat.