Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent, look no further than the Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe. This cake is a stunning combination of moist, nutty layers and luscious, creamy frosting that brings out the deep flavors of toasted hazelnuts perfectly married with that iconic Nutella spread. Every bite delivers a tender crumb and a rich, dreamy sweetness that will make you eager to bake it again and again. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake is an absolute showstopper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is simpler than you might think, and these essentials each play a vital role in making this Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe truly shine. From the buttery softness of the cake to the rich flavor of the buttercream, every component contributes to the perfect balance of texture and taste.

• Toasted hazelnuts (1 cup, finely ground): Adds a warm, nutty depth to the cake, enhancing flavor and texture.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure for the tender crumb.
• Baking powder (1 tbsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully and remain light.
• Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• Unsalted butter (¾ cup room temperature for cake, 1 cup for frosting): Brings richness and moistness, vital for both cake and frosting.
• Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the nutty notes.
• Large eggs (4): Add structure and moisture, holding the cake together with tenderness.
• Vanilla extract (1½ tsp total): Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, aromatic touch.
• Whole milk (¾ cup): Keeps the batter smooth and adds necessary moisture.
• Sour cream (½ cup): Introduces a subtle tang while keeping the cake extra moist.
• Powdered sugar (3 cups for frosting): Creates the perfect foundation for silky-smooth buttercream.
• Heavy cream (⅓ cup for frosting): Lightens the frosting texture, making it fluffy and spreadable.
• Hazelnut spread like Nutella (⅓ cup for frosting): The star addition in the buttercream, adding creamy, chocolate-hazelnut delight.
• Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances sweetness and enriches flavors.
• Chopped toasted hazelnuts (½ cup for garnish): Adds an irresistible crunch and finishes the cake with an elegant touch.

How to Make Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s the perfect temperature once your batter is ready. Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This simple prep guarantees your cake layers come out effortlessly and retain their smooth, flawless edges.

Step 2: Grind the Hazelnuts

Pulse the toasted hazelnuts in a food processor until finely ground and sandy, avoiding any oily or pasty textures. This texture is critical to infuse the cake with that unmistakable crunchy flavor without weighing down the batter.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and the ground hazelnuts until evenly combined. This ensures your layers bake up evenly with a consistent nutty flavor throughout.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—usually about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is key to incorporating air, giving your cake a wonderfully tender crumb.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping the bowl as needed. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is fully combined, ensuring a rich, unified batter flavor.

Step 6: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk and sour cream in two parts, starting and ending with the dry. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition to avoid overmixing, preserving the cake’s tender texture.

Step 7: Divide and Bake

Evenly pour the batter into the prepared pans, smoothing out the tops. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—a sign your cake layers are perfectly baked through.

Step 8: Cool the Cake Layers

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is essential to avoid melting your luscious Nutella buttercream during assembly.

Step 9: Make the Nutella Buttercream

Beat butter in a large bowl on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed to prevent a sugar storm. Then add heavy cream, vanilla, hazelnut spread, and a pinch of salt, beating on high speed until fluffy and irresistibly spreadable.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of the hazelnut Nutella buttercream over it. Repeat with the next two layers, then frost the top and sides evenly for that picture-perfect finish.

Step 11: Garnish and Finish

Create swirls or smooth the frosting with a spatula, whichever you prefer, then sprinkle chopped toasted hazelnuts over the top and edges. This finishing touch adds delightful crunch and visual appeal.

How to Serve Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe

Garnishes

Chopped toasted hazelnuts on top not only amplify the nutty flavor but also add a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth buttercream. For extra flair, consider adding delicate chocolate shavings or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the richness. A small serving of espresso or dark roast coffee also complements the deep hazelnut and chocolate notes elegantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the cake on a rustic wooden board adorned with whole toasted hazelnuts and sprigs of fresh mint. You can also slice thin pieces to create petite dessert bites, perfect for sharing at parties or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cake in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. This cake will stay moist and creamy for up to 4 days while the flavors deepen beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Freeze the buttercream separately. When ready, thaw both at room temperature before assembling to maintain freshness and texture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmed, allow individual slices to come to room temperature or gently warm them for 10-15 seconds in the microwave, but be careful not to melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use raw hazelnuts instead of toasted?

While raw hazelnuts can be used, toasting them enhances their flavor and gives a lovely crunch. Toasting also brings out their natural oils, which is a key part of what makes this cake so delicious.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix suited for cakes. Be mindful to check the texture and baking times as they might vary slightly.

Can I substitute Nutella with another hazelnut spread?

Absolutely. Natural hazelnut butter or any chocolate-hazelnut spread works well in the buttercream, though the taste and sweetness might vary slightly depending on the brand.

How do I prevent the buttercream from becoming too runny?

Make sure your butter is at room temperature and not too soft. Add the heavy cream gradually and beat the frosting well to achieve the perfect consistency. Chill briefly if the frosting seems too soft before spreading.

Can this cake be made in advance for a party?

Definitely! The Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe can be baked a day ahead and assembled just before serving for maximum freshness. You can also prepare the frosting a day before and store it refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly no dessert quite like the Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Buttercream Recipe to make your gatherings unforgettable or turn a simple day into an occasion. Its rich hazelnut essence combined with the velvety, luscious buttercream creates an irresistible treat that anyone will adore. So go ahead, give it a try—you’ll soon find this cake becoming one of your cherished favorites and a recipe you return to again and again.

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