13 May 2025
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
1 cup dark chocolate
1/2 cup brown sugar
5 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hazelnuts
1 tsp baking powder
Indulge in a decadent and delightful treat with this Chocolate Hazelnut Cake. Combining rich dark chocolate and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, this cake is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual family dinner or a festive celebration. The blend of chocolate's bitterness and hazelnut's earthiness creates a harmonious symphony that will leave you craving for more.
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt Chocolate and Butter:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and butter.
- Melt the chocolate and butter together over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring frequently until smooth.
3. Prepare the Hazelnuts:
- Place the hazelnuts in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground.
- Ensure not to over-process them into a paste; you want a consistency similar to almond flour.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Add the ground hazelnuts and baking powder to the egg mixture.
- Stir until combined.
6. Add Melted Chocolate:
- Gradually add the melted chocolate and butter mixture to the batter, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
7. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Optional Decoration:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder, or drizzle with extra melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts if desired.
11. Serve:
- Slice and serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips:
- Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps in achieving a smooth batter.
- Toast the hazelnuts lightly in a dry skillet before using them. Toasting enhances their flavor and makes them easier to chop.
- For a finer texture in your cake, consider grinding the hazelnuts to a coarse powder with a food processor.
- When melting the chocolate, do it slowly over a double boiler to avoid scorching. Stir continuously for a smooth, lump-free melt.
- Fold the ingredients gently to maintain the airy texture of the cake. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
- Line your cake pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake. Grease the pan well, even if using non-stick pans.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
Congratulations! You've just crafted a mouth-watering Chocolate Hazelnut Cake. Whether you serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or cool with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors and the delightful contrast of textures. Bon appétit!