This Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a rich and indulgent treat that brings together the best of chocolate and hazelnut flavors. With a moist, tender crumb, this cake is made even more special by the addition of melted dark chocolate and hazelnut powder in the batter. Topped with a silky chocolate glaze and a sprinkle of crunchy hazelnuts, this cake offers a balance of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking to impress at a special event or enjoy a comforting dessert at home, this cake is both simple to make and sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this recipe for its deep, fudgy chocolate base and the irresistible nutty crunch from the hazelnuts. The combination of butter and cream gives the cake a velvety texture that’s moist without being too dense. With its luxurious chocolate glaze and subtle hazelnut undertones, this cake strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and sophistication. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills—making it ideal for any baker. The cake also keeps well, meaning you can enjoy a slice for days to come.
Perfect Occasion:
This chocolate hazelnut cake is perfect for any special occasion, from birthdays to holiday celebrations. Its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it ideal for formal dinners, while its easy preparation means you can just as easily bake it for a casual weekend treat. The cake’s decadent nature makes it a great choice for gatherings with friends or family, and it pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of dessert wine.
Decoration Tips:
To enhance the presentation of this cake, drizzle a little extra melted chocolate over the top before sprinkling with the chopped hazelnuts. For a more polished look, dust the cake lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. If you want to add more texture, scatter a few whole hazelnuts or chocolate curls on top. You could also pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g sugar
- 220g milk or buttermilk, room temperature
- 240g all-purpose flour
- 8g baking powder
- 1 pinch of fleur de sel (or regular salt)
- 50g hazelnut powder
- 15g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100g melted dark chocolate
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 200g dark chocolate
- 30g vegetable oil (or neutral oil)
- 30g chopped hazelnuts
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the milk and melted dark chocolate, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the hazelnut powder and cocoa powder for a rich, nutty base. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—stop when the batter is smooth and uniform. - Bake the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 22cm round cake tin with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool completely before icing. - Make the Chocolate Glaze:
In a small saucepan or heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Once melted, stir in the oil to give the glaze a shiny, smooth texture. Set aside to cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled cake. - Decorate and Serve:
Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish. Sprinkle the top with chopped hazelnuts to add a crunchy texture. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your decadent chocolate hazelnut cake, perfect for any occasion!
