Vegan Nutella-Inspired Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake with Protein

Satisfy your Nutella cravings with this Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake, a delightful creation that combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty essence of hazelnuts. Perfect for those who love the classic Nutella flavor but prefer a vegan and protein-enriched alternative. This recipe features a moist and nutty chocolate sponge made with ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and vegan chocolate protein powder, ensuring a decadent yet balanced treat. The cake is further enhanced with a velvety and indulgent chocolate frosting, incorporating dairy-free yogurt, cocoa powder, vegan protein powder, and hazelnut chocolate spread or hazelnut butter for that signature Nutella taste. Topped with whole hazelnuts, this cake is not only a visual delight but also a gastronomic pleasure, offering a perfect blend of health-conscious ingredients and luxurious flavors.

Ingredients:

• Cake:
  • 150g self-raising flour
  • 20g vegan chocolate protein powder
  • 50g ground hazelnuts
  • 30g cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
  • 100g sugar
  • 240g dairy-free milk mixed with 1 tsp vinegar
  • 65g dairy-free yogurt
  • 50g neutral oil
  • 1/2 tsp hazelnut extract (optional)
• Frosting:
  • 200g dairy-free yogurt
  • 40g vegan chocolate protein powder
  • 40g cocoa powder
  • 4 tbsp maple syrup
  • 4 tbsp hazelnut chocolate spread or hazelnut butter
• Topping:
  • Hazelnuts

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C. Line two round cake tins.
2. Mix dairy-free milk with vinegar and set aside to thicken.
3. Sift together flour, protein powder, ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda.
4. In another bowl, mix together the thickened milk, yogurt, oil, and hazelnut extract (if using).
5. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. For the frosting, blend dairy-free yogurt, protein powder, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and hazelnut spread until smooth.
9. Once the cakes have cooled, layer and frost them. Garnish with whole hazelnuts.

Enjoy this Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake as a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for Nutella lovers seeking a healthier yet equally satisfying option!