Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake: A Decadent Delight for Every Occasion

Indulge in the rich, velvety allure of a Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake—a dessert that effortlessly blends the smoothness of chocolate-hazelnut spread with the moist tenderness of a perfectly baked cake. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a sweet afternoon delight, this cake promises to deliver an explosion of flavor with every bite. Inspired by beloved spreads like Nutella, this cake elevates a pantry staple into a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible to eat.

The History Behind the Sweet Sensation

The roots of chocolate hazelnut spread trace back to post-World War II Italy, where Pietro Ferrero, a pastry maker from Piedmont, sought to create an affordable alternative to expensive cocoa and chocolate. His creation—initially called “Pasta Gianduja”—was a paste made from hazelnuts, sugar, and just a touch of cocoa. Over time, this evolved into what we now know as Nutella, popularized globally by the Ferrero company. The blend of Italian culinary tradition and resourcefulness gave rise to a product that would inspire countless desserts, including our beloved Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake.

Cakes infused with chocolate hazelnut spread began appearing in home bakeries during the late 20th century, as the spread gained international popularity. Home cooks experimented with incorporating it into brownies, cookies, and cakes, discovering that its creamy texture and deep flavor made it ideal for moist, fudgy desserts. Today, the Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake stands as a modern classic—a fusion of European heritage and contemporary baking creativity.

Ingredients Breakdown: What Makes This Cake So Irresistible?

The magic of this cake lies not only in its taste but also in the harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a balanced, indulgent dessert that’s both rich and moist:

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: The star ingredient, providing a creamy, nutty sweetness with deep chocolate notes. Brands like Nutella work perfectly, though artisanal or homemade versions can add a personal touch.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while maintaining a soft crumb. Can be substituted with gluten-free flour blends for dietary needs.
Granulated Sugar: Enhances sweetness and contributes to the cake’s tender texture.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents that ensure the cake rises beautifully and remains light despite its richness.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor depth.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture and structure.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb. Must be softened for proper creaming.
Vanilla Extract: Complements the chocolate and hazelnut flavors with warm, aromatic undertones.
Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness.
Cocoa Powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor without adding excess fat.
Dark Chocolate (optional): For extra decadence, melted dark chocolate can be folded into the batter or used in a ganache topping.
Chopped Hazelnuts (optional): Add crunch and reinforce the nutty profile—either toasted or raw.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Bake the Perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake

Follow these detailed instructions to create a luscious, bakery-quality Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

1 cup (240g) chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
½ cup (60g) chopped toasted hazelnuts (optional)
½ cup (90g) dark chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy release.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Gently warm the chocolate hazelnut spread slightly (10–15 seconds in the microwave) to make it easier to mix. Add it to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined and smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients (dry-wet-dry-wet-dry). Mix on low speed just until combined—do not overmix.
Fold in Extras: If using, gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts and dark chocolate chips with a spatula.
Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake: Place pans in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Tips for Baking Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, emulsified batter.
Don’t Overmix: Once flour is added, mix only until incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a dense cake.
Toasting Hazelnuts: For enhanced flavor, toast hazelnuts in a dry skillet or 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes until fragrant and skins begin to crack. Rub them in a towel to remove loose skins.
Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary—start checking at 28 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Cool Completely: Never frost a warm cake—it will melt the frosting and cause crumbling.
Use Quality Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: The flavor of the cake heavily depends on the spread, so opt for a brand with real hazelnuts and cocoa.
Even Layers: Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter equally for uniform layers and even baking.

Variations and Customizations

This cake is wonderfully versatile. Try these creative twists to suit different tastes and occasions:

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread and almond or oat milk mixed with vinegar (to mimic buttermilk).
Vegan Adaptation: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg), vegan butter, and dairy-free spread. Substitute buttermilk with soy milk + lemon juice.
Mini Cakes or Cupcakes: Bake in muffin tins for 18–22 minutes—perfect for parties or portion control.
Marbled Effect: Swirl in spoonfuls of peanut butter or raspberry jam before baking for a marbled design.
Layered Dessert: Turn it into a trifle by cubing the cake and layering with whipped cream, fresh berries, and more hazelnut spread.
Boozy Twist: Add 1–2 tablespoons of Frangelico, Kahlua, or rum to the batter for an adult version.
Flavor Infusions: Add orange zest, cinnamon, or espresso powder to deepen the flavor complexity.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While undeniably delicious, the Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake is a treat best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a nutritional overview (per slice, based on 12 servings):

Calories: ~380–420 kcal
Fat: ~20–25g (includes healthy fats from hazelnuts and cocoa)
Saturated Fat: ~10–12g (mainly from butter and chocolate)
Carbohydrates: ~45–50g
Sugars: ~30–35g (mostly from added sugars in spread and sugar)
Protein: ~6–8g (from eggs, milk, and hazelnuts)
Fiber: ~3–4g (from cocoa and whole hazelnuts)

Health Notes:

Hazelnuts are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
Cocoa contains flavonoids linked to improved cardiovascular health.
However, due to high sugar and fat content, those managing diabetes, weight, or cholesterol should consume sparingly.
Consider reducing sugar by ¼ cup or using natural sweeteners like coconut sugar for a slightly healthier version.
Serving with fresh fruit or Greek yogurt can balance sweetness and add nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake without chocolate hazelnut spread?
While the spread is essential for flavor and moisture, you can make a substitute by blending ½ cup melted dark chocolate, ½ cup finely ground hazelnuts, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 3 tbsp powdered sugar, and 2 tbsp neutral oil. However, results may vary.

How long does the cake last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the unfrosted cake lasts 2–3 days. Refrigerated, it keeps for up to 5 days. Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

What frosting pairs well with this cake?
Options include:

Chocolate hazelnut buttercream (mix spread into buttercream)
Whipped chocolate ganache
Vanilla buttercream with crushed hazelnuts
Mascarpone cream sweetened lightly with honey

Why did my cake sink in the middle?
Possible causes: underbaking, too much leavening, opening the oven too early, or overmixing. Ensure accurate measurements and avoid sudden temperature changes.

Can I bake this as a sheet cake?
Absolutely. Use a 9×13 inch pan and bake for 35–40 minutes. Adjust frosting accordingly.

Is there a way to reduce calories?
Try using applesauce or mashed banana to replace half the butter, reduce sugar, or use a sugar-free chocolate hazelnut spread. Note: texture may change slightly.

Summary

The Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cake is a luxurious, crowd-pleasing dessert that transforms a simple jar of spread into a moist, flavorful masterpiece. With its rich history, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it’s a must-try for any chocolate lover.