Nutella and hazelnut cake

Nutella and Hazelnut Cake

If you're looking for a quick, simple, and extremely delicious dessert, you've come to the right place! This Nutella and hazelnut cake is perfect for any occasion, from a snack between meals to a special dessert for a dinner with friends. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the crunchy texture of the hazelnuts will delight your taste buds and turn any moment into a festive one.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

- 175 g butter or margarine (we recommend Rama for a rich taste)
- 175 g brown powdered sugar (this will add a caramelization note)
- 3 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 200 g flour (for a fluffy texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to make the cake rise)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for a warm and aromatic taste)
- 4 tablespoons milk (helps achieve a softer dough)
- 4 tablespoons Nutella (the source of decadent chocolate!)
- 50 g hazelnuts, roughly chopped (for an extra crunch)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even baking.

2. Prepare the pan: Grease a round 23 cm diameter pan with butter and line it with baking paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to turn out after baking.

3. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, beat the butter (or margarine) with the brown powdered sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This process will incorporate air into the dough, ensuring a light texture.

4. Adding wet ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the milk. This step will help achieve a uniform emulsion, essential for a perfect cake.

5. Dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Then, gradually add this mixture to the wet composition, gently mixing with a spatula until the ingredients combine. Be careful not to overmix, as this could develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a dense cake.

6. Assembly: Pour half of the dough into the prepared pan. Using a spoon, place 4 tablespoons of Nutella on top of the dough and, using a knife, make circular motions to create a marbled effect. Then, pour the remaining dough and repeat the process with the rest of the Nutella. Use the knife to create an attractive pattern on the surface of the dough.

7. Adding hazelnuts: Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts on top of the dough. They will not only add texture but also enhance the overall flavor of the dessert.

8. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If you notice it browning too much on the surface, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

9. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a plate and let it cool completely. This step is important as it allows the flavors to stabilize and helps achieve a perfect texture.

Useful tip

A personal trick I've discovered is to add a pinch of salt to the dough to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with adding vanilla or almond extract for a distinct note.

Possible variations

- Berries: You can add blueberries or raspberries to the dough for a delicious contrast between sweetness and acidity.
- White chocolate: Replace Nutella with melted white chocolate for a lighter version.
- Spices: Try adding a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a more exotic flavor.

Ideal combinations

This Nutella and hazelnut cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will add a refreshing note and balance the sweetness. Additionally, a cup of coffee or herbal tea will perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional benefits

This dessert, while delicious, also contains valuable nutrients. Hazelnuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, and the chocolate in Nutella provides a quick source of energy. However, it's good to know that a moderate portion is key to enjoying the benefits of this dessert without exceeding your daily caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace Nutella with something else? Yes, you can use another chocolate spread or even peanut butter for a different version.

2. How do I keep the cake fresh? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain moisture. It can be consumed for up to 4-5 days.

3. Can I freeze the cake? Absolutely! You can freeze it in individual portions, and when you want to serve it, simply thaw it at room temperature.

Now you are ready to make this Nutella and hazelnut cake, a dessert that will not disappoint! Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, it will surely become a family favorite. Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 175 g butter or Rama margarine, 175 g brown powdered sugar, 3 eggs, 200 g flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 4 tablespoons milk, 4 tablespoons Nutella, 50 g hazelnuts, roughly chopped