Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Indulge your sweet tooth with a moist and rich Chocolate Hazelnut Cake! This delightful dessert combines the deep flavors of chocolate with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy family gathering, this cake is sure to impress!
Why make this recipe?
There are countless reasons to whip up this Chocolate Hazelnut Cake. It’s simple to make, requires everyday ingredients, and the combination of chocolate and hazelnuts creates a wonderfully satisfying flavor. Plus, who can resist a slice of cake smothered in velvety chocolate ganache? 🍫🌰
How to prepare Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 🍬
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
- 1 teaspoon baking powder 🥄
- 1 teaspoon baking soda 🥄
- ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup whole milk 🥛
- ½ cup vegetable oil 🌿
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 🌼
- 1 cup hot water 💧
- 1 cup chopped hazelnuts 🌰
- Chocolate ganache (for frosting) 🍫
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. 🏠
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. 🍚
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat until well blended. 🥄
- Carefully stir in the hot water and chopped hazelnuts until combined. The batter will be thin. 💧🌰
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. 🥄
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 🍰
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. ❄️
- Once cooled, frost with chocolate ganache as desired. 🍫
How to serve Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Serve the Chocolate Hazelnut Cake at room temperature, sliced into generous pieces. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat! 🍦
How to store Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it, but be sure to take it out an hour before serving for the best flavor and texture. 🥶
Tips for preparing Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing and baking. 🕒
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a lighter cake. 🔄
- Feel free to roast the hazelnuts lightly before adding them for an enhanced flavor! 🌰🔥
Variations
- Add a layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity twist. 🍓
- Substitute walnuts or almonds for hazelnuts if you’re looking for a different nutty flavor. 🌰🔄
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Store it properly to keep it fresh. 📅
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. ❄️🍰
Q: What type of chocolate ganache should I use?
A: You can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate for the ganache, depending on your preference for sweetness and richness. 🍫💖