The Chocolate and Hazelnut Cake recipe is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and the earthy, nutty flavor of hazelnuts, creating a dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting.
The smooth, velvety chocolate perfectly complements the crunchy texture of hazelnuts, making each bite a blissful experience.
Baking for a special celebration or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this cake is sure to impress.
It’s easy to make, yet feels indulgent enough to serve at any gathering. As someone who loves experimenting with classic flavor combinations.
I can confidently say this Chocolate and Hazelnut Cake offers the perfect balance of richness and texture, making it a must-try recipe for chocolate and nut lovers alike!
How To Prepare Chocolate And Hazelnut Cake Recipe?
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: European
Yield: 8-10 servings
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Saucepan (for the chocolate glaze)
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup ground hazelnuts
- A pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 cup dark chocolate (chopped)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure the cake comes out smoothly after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside for now.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before moving on to the next.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Add vanilla extract and ground hazelnuts, folding them gently into the batter.
6. Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake:
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze:
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
9. Glaze and Garnish:
Pour the chocolate glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top for an added crunch.
Special Note
This Chocolate and Hazelnut Cake recipe allows for flexibility. You can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
Toasting the hazelnuts before adding them enhances their nutty flavor, making the cake even more delicious.
Nutrition Facts Chocolate And Hazelnut Cake Recipe
Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 150mg
Serving Suggestions For Chocolate And Hazelnut Cake Recipe
1. Serve this chocolate and hazelnut cake slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
2. A dollop of whipped cream can add a light, airy touch to the richness of the cake.
3. If you want to balance the sweetness, try serving it with some fresh berries on the side.
Tips And Variations
1. Add More Crunch:
If you love a bit more texture, you can toast the hazelnuts before grinding them. It adds a deeper, nuttier flavor to the cake.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free version of this cake. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add ¼ teaspoon to the mix for the right texture.
3. Add a Coffee Kick:
For a mocha twist, substitute ¼ cup of milk with brewed espresso. It’ll enhance the chocolate flavor while adding a subtle coffee note.
Can I Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Chocolate And Hazelnut Cake recipe. Simply wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn.
Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How To Finish The Hazelnut Chocolate Cake ?
To finish the Chocolate Hazelnut Cake, you can top it with a glossy chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant look.
For added texture, sprinkle toasted hazelnuts on top. A drizzle of melted chocolate also enhances its decadent appeal.
Conclusion
The Chocolate and Hazelnut Cake recipe is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and satisfying textures that makes it a standout dessert.
The creamy, decadent chocolate combined with the crunchy, nutty hazelnuts creates a perfect balance that appeals to both casual dessert lovers and dedicated foodies.
Serving it for a special occasion or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this cake is bound to impress. It’s easy enough to bake at home but feels luxurious with every bite.
I’m sure this cake will become a go-to favorite in your dessert repertoire, and once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!