Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Cake – A Show-Stopping Dessert for Special Occasions

Introduction

Looking for a dessert that will leave everyone in awe? This Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is the perfect choice! With its rich chocolate layers, creamy hazelnut frosting, and a glossy chocolate drip, this cake is as delicious as it is stunning. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a celebration of your love for chocolate, this recipe will help you create a masterpiece that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (85g) cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
• ½ cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee (or hot water)

For the Hazelnut Frosting:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (280g) hazelnut spread
• 4 ½ cups (560g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Chocolate Ganache Drip:

• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (170g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 tbsp butter (for extra shine)

For Decoration:

• Whole hazelnuts
• Chocolate candies or pralines
• Chocolate curls or shards
• Crushed hazelnuts or almonds

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch (20cm) cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients and sour cream alternately to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in the brewed coffee for a rich flavor and smooth batter.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Hazelnut Frosting

1. Beat the softened butter and hazelnut spread together until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well. Add heavy cream and almond extract (if using) for a spreadable and fluffy consistency.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache Drip

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the chopped dark chocolate.
2. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add the butter for extra shine. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the cake layers if needed. Spread an even layer of hazelnut frosting between each cake layer.
2. Apply a crumb coat to the entire cake to seal in any crumbs, then chill for 20 minutes. Add a smooth final coat of frosting.
3. Drizzle the cooled chocolate ganache around the top edge of the cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides. Spread any remaining ganache over the top for a glossy finish.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Arrange whole hazelnuts, chocolate candies, and pralines around the top of the cake.
2. Add chocolate curls or shards for an elegant touch. Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts around the base of the cake for added texture.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
• Chill the cake layers before assembling to make frosting easier and neater.
• If the ganache becomes too thick, reheat gently or add a teaspoon of warm cream to adjust consistency.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Its luxurious layers and beautiful decorations make it perfect for any special occasion. Share your creation with friends and family, and don’t forget to take a picture – this cake is as photogenic as it is delicious!

Enjoy every slice, and happy baking!