Grilled Nutella Banana Sandwich

This Grilled Nutella Banana Sandwich is the ultimate sweet treat that you can whip up in just minutes. Combining crispy, coconut oil-toasted bread with warm, melty vegan Nutella and ripe banana, it hits every note from crunchy to creamy and chocolaty. It’s perfect whenever you need a quick snack, an indulgent lunch, or a simple dessert that will impress without any fuss.

My first time making this, I was shocked at how something so easy could taste so indulgent. Now it’s my go-to when I need a sweet fix that feels special but doesn’t require a mess in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Bread: choose a sturdy loaf like sourdough or a hearty white bread that crisps up well when grilled for that perfect crunchy exterior
• Ripe banana: the key to sweetness and creaminess, the riper the banana the better the flavor and natural sugars
• Vegan Nutella: I use my homemade 4Ingredient Vegan Nutella recipe if buying store-bought, pick a variety with real hazelnuts and cocoa for best taste
• Coconut oil: creates a crisp buttery crust without dairy opt for virgin coconut oil for a subtle coconut aroma and health benefits

Instructions

Sauté the Bread with Coconut Oil:

Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon or two of coconut oil. Brush one side of each bread slice lightly with the coconut oil to ensure an even golden crust. This step is crucial for that perfect crispness and adds subtle richness.

Assemble the Sandwich:

Flip the bread in the pan, oiled side down, and spread a generous layer of vegan Nutella on the top side that is now facing up. Arrange thin banana slices evenly over the Nutella. Top with the second slice of bread, coconut oil side facing out, creating a sandwich.

Grill Until Golden and Melty:

Press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula and cook over medium heat for about three to four minutes until the bottom is a deep golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until equally crisp and the Nutella inside becomes warm and gooey, about three minutes.

Rest and Serve Warm:

Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it sit for a minute to set slightly, making it easier to cut. Slice in half and enjoy immediately while still warm and melty.

This sandwich became a family favorite the first time I made it for a simple weekend snack. I love how the coconut oil coating on the bread crisps up like it is loaded with butter but without any dairy. That crispy exterior paired with the sweet banana and nutella filling makes each bite utterly satisfying and memorable.

Storage Tips

If you want to save leftovers, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat briefly in a skillet to restore its crispy crust and melty center. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the bread soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the banana for sliced strawberries or apples for a different fruity twist. Use almond butter mixed with cocoa powder in place of vegan Nutella if you prefer a less sweet option. Swap coconut oil for vegan butter if you want a milder flavor but still want crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or herbal tea as a cozy afternoon treat.

Quick to make and utterly satisfying, this sandwich is a perfect sweet treat any time. Warm, crispy, and melty, it’s hard to resist.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

A sturdy bread like sourdough or whole grain holds up well and crisps nicely when grilled with coconut oil.

→ Can I use regular Nutella instead of vegan?

Yes, regular Nutella can be used, but using a vegan version makes the sandwich dairy-free and still richly flavored.

→ How do I get a crispy crust without butter?

Brushing the bread with coconut oil before grilling helps achieve a golden, crunchy outside without using butter.

→ Is it necessary to use ripe bananas?

Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and softness that complement the melty Nutella perfectly.

→ Can this sandwich be made gluten-free?

Absolutely, just substitute your favorite gluten-free bread to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.