Chocolate Hazelnut Cake

Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a decadent dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate flavor with the nutty, aromatic taste of hazelnuts. This cake is moist, tender, and indulgent, with a luxurious chocolate ganache or frosting topping that adds elegance and depth.

I love this recipe because it’s both comforting and sophisticated, ideal for celebrations or simply treating yourself. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a perfect harmony of chocolate and nutty notes. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this cake is perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or holiday dinners.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this cake because it combines the richness of chocolate with the subtle crunch and aroma of toasted hazelnuts. The cake itself is soft, moist, and chocolatey, while the frosting or ganache adds a luxurious finishing touch.

It’s versatile, allowing for layered versions, bundt cakes, or cupcakes. Plus, the combination of chocolate and hazelnut is universally loved, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Every slice feels indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly simple to bake from scratch.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a must-try because it elevates a classic chocolate cake with the unique flavor of hazelnuts. It’s perfect for special occasions or as a decadent everyday dessert. The nutty flavor enhances the chocolate without overpowering it, and the cake’s moist texture ensures each bite is satisfying.

It’s visually stunning, rich in flavor, and guaranteed to impress both family and friends, making it a staple for anyone who loves chocolate desserts.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 60–65 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 slices
• Calories: Approx. 420 kcal per slice
• Cuisine: European / French-inspired
• Course: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts

For the Chocolate Hazelnut Ganache (Optional):

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 100 g dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp chopped hazelnuts for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Mix in dry ingredients alternately with milk and sour cream. Fold in chopped hazelnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool completely. Prepare ganache by heating cream and pouring over chocolate; stir until smooth. Pour over cake and garnish with chopped hazelnuts.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and flour.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Add dry ingredients in three portions alternately with milk and sour cream. Mix gently until just combined.
6. Fold in Hazelnuts: Stir in finely chopped toasted hazelnuts for added flavor and texture.
7. Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare Ganache: Heat cream until just boiling, pour over chopped chocolate, add butter, stir until smooth. Pour over cooled cake.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle with additional chopped hazelnuts for an elegant finish.

How to Serve

• Slice the cake and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with extra toasted hazelnuts or chocolate shavings.
• Perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or as a decadent afternoon treat.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Toast hazelnuts to enhance their flavor before adding to the batter.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake moist and tender.
• For a richer flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate.
• Ganache can be poured while slightly warm for a glossy finish.

Variations for This Recipe

• Layer Cake: Split the cake in half and spread chocolate hazelnut spread or frosting between layers.
• Cupcakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings; reduce baking time to 20 minutes.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace hazelnuts with finely chopped almonds or omit entirely.
• Mocha Twist: Add 1 tsp instant coffee to dry ingredients for a coffee-chocolate flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Ganache may need a slight reheat for smoothness.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Sifter for dry ingredients
• Wire cooling rack
• Small saucepan for ganache

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this cake vegan?
A: Replace butter with vegan margarine, eggs with flax eggs, and use non-dairy milk and cream for ganache.

Q2: Can I use hazelnut butter instead of chopped nuts?
A: Yes, incorporate hazelnut butter into the batter for a smooth, nutty flavor.

Q3: How do I keep the cake moist?
A: Avoid overbaking and fold ingredients gently. Using sour cream also ensures moisture.

Q4: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q5: Can I prepare ganache ahead of time?
A: Yes, ganache can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before pouring.

Conclusion

Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a decadent, elegant dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty aroma of toasted hazelnuts. Moist, tender, and flavorful, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special gatherings.

With a luxurious ganache topping and optional nut garnish, this cake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Easy to bake yet visually stunning, it’s a must-try for chocolate lovers and anyone looking to create a dessert that’s both indulgent and memorable.