A delightful Hazelnut Nutcracker Cake that captures the essence of winter festivities with its rich flavors and charming presentation. This cake combines the unique taste of hazelnuts with classic cake textures for a memorable dessert experience.
Author:Olivia
Prep Time:45 minutes
Cook Time:30-35 minutes
Total Time:2 hours
Yield:10-12 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup ground hazelnuts
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup hazelnut cream (e.g., Nutella or similar)
Chopped hazelnuts, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, ground hazelnuts, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Stir until smooth.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of hazelnut cream over the top.
Pour some chocolate ganache over the hazelnut cream for added richness.
Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process. Finally, pour any remaining ganache over the assembled cake.
Finish by sprinkling chopped hazelnuts on top for a crunchy topping.
For the best results, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Use fresh, roasted hazelnuts for the best flavor.
Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature before baking for a smoother batter.
Lining cake pans with parchment paper makes removal easier.
Taste and adjust hazelnut cream to your preference.
Ensure cake layers are completely cool before assembly.