The Nutella Hazelnut Chocolate Cake is a slice of pure indulgence, combining the rich flavors of chocolate, hazelnuts, and the beloved hazelnut spread, Nutella. This luscious cake boasts a tender, moist crumb and is generously frosted with a Nutella-infused icing.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll delve into the key ingredients that create this mouthwatering masterpiece, provide a step-by-step guide for baking, and explore the delightful taste that awaits your palate.

The Nutella Hazelnut Chocolate Cake harmoniously blends several exquisite ingredients to craft its decadent profile:

For the Cake:

• Butter (3/4 cup, softened): Provides a rich and creamy base for the cake.
• Brown Sugar (1-1/4 cups, packed) and Sugar (1 cup): Contribute sweetness and moisture.
• Eggs (3 large, room temperature): Bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
• Unsweetened Chocolate (3 ounces, melted and cooled slightly): Introduces deep chocolate intensity.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour (2-1/4 cups): Forms the cake’s structure.
• Instant Espresso Powder (1 tablespoon): Elevates the chocolate flavor with a hint of coffee.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon), Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon), Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Act as leavening agents and flavor enhancers.
• 2% Milk (1-1/2 cups): Enriches the batter with moisture.

For the Frosting:

• More Butter (1 cup, softened): Combines with Nutella to create a velvety, Nutella-infused frosting.
• Nutella (1 cup): Delivers the distinct hazelnut-chocolate essence.
• Confectioners’ Sugar (4 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle layer of flavor.
• 2% Milk (3 to 4 tablespoons): Adjusts the frosting’s consistency for easy spreading.

For Garnish:

• Chopped Hazelnuts (1/2 cup, toasted): Offer a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.

Creating the Nutella Hazelnut Chocolate Cake is a delightful journey into the realm of chocolate and hazelnut. Follow these steps to bake your own scrumptious masterpiece:

1. Preparing the Cake Batter:

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line the bottoms of two greased 9-inch round baking pans with parchment paper, and grease the parchment as well.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. This process takes about 5-7 minutes and ensures a tender crumb in the final cake.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the melted and slightly cooled unsweetened chocolate and vanilla extract.
• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, instant espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 2% milk, and beat until well combined.

2. Baking the Cake Layers:

• Transfer the cake batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Remove the parchment paper from the cake layers.

3. Preparing the Nutella Frosting:

• In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and Nutella until well blended. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract. Adjust the frosting’s consistency with 2% milk as needed to achieve your desired spreadability.

4. Assembling and Decorating:

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread 1 cup of the Nutella frosting on top. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of toasted hazelnuts over the frosting. Top with the second cake layer.
• Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining Nutella frosting, ensuring an even coating. Finish by sprinkling the remaining toasted hazelnuts on top of the cake.

The Nutella Hazelnut Chocolate Cake is a symphony of flavors that harmonize into a delightful dessert experience. With its tender chocolate cake layers and velvety Nutella-infused frosting, this cake is a luxurious treat that’s perfect for special occasions or moments when you’re craving something truly indulgent.

The toasted hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch and a nutty aroma that complements the rich chocolate-hazelnut profile. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression with every delectable bite.