Irresistibly Fluffy Nutella Stuffed Pancakes (Aebleskivers): Your New Favorite Easy Breakfast!

Get ready to elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these incredibly light, fluffy, and utterly delicious **Nutella stuffed pancakes**. Inspired by traditional Danish Aebleskivers, these delightful pancake balls are filled with a luscious center of warm Nutella, making every bite a heavenly experience. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make and can be on your table in under 20 minutes, perfect for impressing family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, airy pancake that reveals a molten, rich Nutella core. It’s a breakfast dream come true! While the traditional Aebleskiver pan is key to their unique spherical shape, we’ll also cover how to make them even if you don’t have one, ensuring everyone can enjoy this fantastic treat.

If you’re a fan of quick and easy breakfast recipes that still deliver on flavor and texture, you’ll love these. Just like my popular blueberry pancakes, lemon ricotta pancakes, or even the savory bacon and corn pancakes, these Nutella stuffed Aebleskivers are designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal fuss.

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Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Nutella Stuffed Pancakes

If you’ve ever had Danish pancake balls (Aebleskivers) and found them enchanting, then prepare to be utterly captivated by this Nutella-filled version. What makes this recipe truly special?

• Unmatched Fluffiness: The pancake base is designed to be incredibly light and airy, almost like a cloud, a hallmark of traditional Aebleskivers and achieved by carefully separating and whipping egg whites.
• Irresistible Nutella Core: Each mini pancake is generously stuffed with warm, gooey Nutella, creating a delightful surprise with every bite. It’s a chocolate-hazelnut dream!
• Quick and Easy: Despite their gourmet appearance, these Nutella stuffed pancakes come together in about 15-20 minutes, making them perfect for a decadent weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch.
• Fail-Proof Base: Our pancake batter recipe is incredibly reliable, ensuring consistent results every time.
• Versatile Filling: Don’t want to use Nutella? No problem! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can stuff these delightful spheres with raspberry jam, cream cheese, chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or even savory fillings like cheese or pre-cooked sausage for a unique twist.
• Impressive Presentation: These mini pancake balls are a visual delight, guaranteed to impress your family and friends, making them ideal for special occasions like Mother’s Day, holidays, or any gathering.

What are Aebleskivers (Danish Pancake Balls)?

Aebleskivers (pronounced AH-bluh-skee-vuhr), often translated as “apple slices,” are traditional Danish pancake balls. Historically, they might have contained apple pieces, but today they are typically served as spherical, light, and fluffy pancakes, often plain or filled with various sweet surprises. They are cooked in a special cast iron pan with several indentations, called an Aebleskiver pan, which gives them their distinctive round shape.

These delightful treats are a staple in Danish cuisine, especially around Christmas, but are enjoyed year-round for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They are traditionally served hot, dusted with powdered sugar, and accompanied by jam or maple syrup. Our Nutella stuffed version takes this classic to a new level of indulgence!

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting these heavenly Nutella stuffed Aebleskivers requires a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. The key to their incredible texture lies in the careful preparation and combination of these components.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for our fluffy pancake batter.
• Eggs: You’ll need 3 egg yolks for richness and moisture, and 5 egg whites, whipped separately, to create that signature light and airy texture. This separation is crucial for the perfect rise.
• Melted Unsalted Butter: Adds flavor and tenderness to the pancakes. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe.
• Nutella: The star of the show! As mentioned, Nutella is completely optional, but highly recommended for a decadent treat.
• Buttermilk: Provides a tangy flavor and reacts with the baking soda to create a wonderfully tender and moist crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, see our FAQ section for a simple substitute.
• Granulated Sugar: For a touch of sweetness in the pancake batter.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda, and Salt: These leavening agents work together to ensure your pancakes are perfectly puffed and light. Salt balances the flavors.
• Sour Cream: A secret ingredient that adds extra moisture, richness, and a slight tang, contributing to the incredibly tender texture of these pancakes.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.

Step-by-Step: How To Make Nutella Stuffed Pancakes

Making these gourmet-style Nutella Aebleskivers is simpler than you might think. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Prepare the Eggs: Begin by carefully separating the egg yolks from the whites. Place the 3 egg yolks in a large mixing bowl and the 5 egg whites in a separate, clean, dry bowl. (Note: The original recipe asks to discard two yolks; for maximum richness and to avoid waste, you can add them to your scrambled eggs later or use them in another recipe, but for this specific recipe, we only use 3 yolks in the batter.) Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on high speed until they form stiff, fluffy peaks. Set aside.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In the large bowl with the 3 egg yolks, add the buttermilk, melted butter, sour cream, and granulated sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently with a whisk or spatula just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and actually prevent tough pancakes. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make your pancakes chewy instead of fluffy.
4. Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the pancake batter using a spatula. Use a light hand, folding just until no streaks of egg white remain. The goal is to keep as much air in the batter as possible for that light, fluffy texture.
5. Prepare the Pan: Grease your Aebleskiver pan generously with butter or cooking spray and heat it over medium-low heat. It’s crucial for the pan to be at the right temperature – not too hot to burn the outside, but hot enough to cook through.
6. Cook the Pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into each well of the heated Aebleskiver pan. Immediately, add about 1 tablespoon of Nutella into the center of each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to set and bubbles appear on the surface.
7. Flip and Finish: Using a skewer, knitting needle, or small wooden dowel, carefully flip the pancakes over. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The Nutella inside should be warm and melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Nutella stuffed pancakes to a serving plate. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream if desired. Enjoy them warm!

Tips for Perfect Aebleskivers Every Time

• Don’t Overmix: This is perhaps the most important rule for fluffy pancakes. Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Lumps are okay!
• Proper Pan Temperature: Medium-low heat is ideal. If the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. If it’s too cool, the pancakes won’t brown properly or puff up. Test with a small amount of batter first.
• Grease Well: Ensure your Aebleskiver pan is well-greased between batches to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping.
• Flipping Technique: Use a skewer or knitting needle to gently loosen the edges and flip the pancakes when they are about half-cooked. The goal is to rotate them gradually to form a perfect sphere.
• Don’t Overfill: Only fill the wells about 3/4 full to allow room for the batter to expand and accommodate the Nutella.
• Nutella Placement: Add the Nutella in the middle of the partially cooked pancake to ensure it’s fully enclosed when you flip it.

No Aebleskiver Pan? No Problem! Here’s How to Make Them

Absolutely! While an Aebleskiver pan gives these pancakes their signature spherical shape, you can still enjoy delicious Nutella-stuffed pancakes without one. Here are a couple of methods:

• Traditional Stuffed Pancakes: Simply cook the pancakes how you normally would on a regular griddle. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Once bubbles start to form, add about 1 tablespoon of Nutella to the center of each pancake. Then, pour a small amount of additional pancake batter directly over the Nutella to cover it. Cook for another minute or two, then flip and cook until golden brown and cooked through. These will be flat, larger pancakes with a delightful Nutella center.
• Cake Pop Machine: You can also use a cake pop machine for a similar mini, round effect. Follow the machine’s instructions for cooking, filling each cavity halfway with batter, adding Nutella, and then topping with more batter before closing.

Customization and Flavor Variations

While Nutella is a phenomenal choice, the beauty of these stuffed pancakes lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste or occasion:

• Sweet Fillings:
  • Jams and Preserves: Raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or blueberry jam for a fruity burst.
  • Cream Cheese: Mix cream cheese with a little sugar and vanilla for a tangy, creamy center.
  • Chocolate Chips: A handful of mini chocolate chips for a simpler chocolatey treat.
  • Caramel Sauce: A dollop of thick caramel sauce for a sweet, buttery surprise.
  • Peanut Butter: For a classic peanut butter and pancake combo.
  • Fruit: Small pieces of banana, thinly sliced apples (like the original Aebleskivers!), or berries.
• Savory Fillings (for a twist!):
  • Cheese: A small cube of cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy breakfast bite.
  • Cooked Sausage or Bacon Bits: For a hearty, savory pancake ball.
  • Herbs: Fresh chives or parsley mixed with a soft cheese.

Serving Suggestions for Your Aebleskivers

These Nutella stuffed pancakes are delicious enough to be enjoyed on their own, but a few simple additions can make them even more special:

• Powdered Sugar: A generous dusting of powdered sugar is classic and adds a touch of elegance.
• Maple Syrup: A drizzle of warm maple syrup is always a welcome accompaniment to any pancake.
• Fresh Fruit: Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) or sliced bananas add freshness and color.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream takes these to dessert level.
• On the Side: Pair them with a strong cup of coffee, a glass of fresh orange juice, or a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a complete breakfast spread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Nutella stuffed pancakes (a rare occurrence!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Allow the pancakes to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze them. Arrange cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1-2 months.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: Reheat individual pancakes in the microwave for 15-30 seconds until warm and soft.
  • Oven/Toaster Oven: For a crispier exterior, reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
  • Skillet: You can also gently warm them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making Nutella stuffed pancakes:

• Can I make the batter ahead of time? You can prepare the wet and dry ingredients separately, and even beat the egg whites separately and store them in the fridge. However, for the fluffiest results, it’s best to combine the wet and dry ingredients and then fold in the egg whites just before cooking. The leavening agents start reacting once wet, so fresh batter is always best.
• What if I don’t have buttermilk? No problem! You can easily make a homemade buttermilk substitute. For 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk, measure 1 1/2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice into a measuring cup. Then, fill the rest of the cup with regular milk (any fat percentage will work) up to the 1 1/2 cup line. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
• Can I use a different chocolate spread? Yes, absolutely! Any chocolate hazelnut spread will work just as well as Nutella. You could also use a plain chocolate ganache or a thick chocolate sauce.
• Are these gluten-free? As written, this recipe is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Results may vary slightly in texture.
• How many pancakes does this recipe make? This recipe is designed to yield approximately 20 mini Nutella stuffed pancakes, depending on how full you fill each well of your Aebleskiver pan.

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