This Hazelnut Cake Recipe is a rich, nutty dessert with a soft, moist crumb and deep toasted hazelnut flavor. Whether layered with frosting or served simply with powdered sugar, this cake is a delightful treat for any occasion.
Why Everyone Loves Hazelnut Cake
Hazelnut cake combines the warmth of roasted hazelnuts with a tender, buttery texture. It pairs beautifully with chocolate, coffee, or caramel for an elegant dessert. If you love nutty treats, try this Hazelnut Praline Tart Recipe.
Ingredients
- Cake Batter:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely ground hazelnuts
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- Optional Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Topping (Optional):
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel drizzle
Instructions
Make the Cake Batter:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground hazelnuts, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing until combined.
- Stir in sour cream for extra moisture.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Make the Frosting (Optional):
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Spread over the cooled cake and top with chopped hazelnuts or chocolate shavings.
How to Serve Hazelnut Cake
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Pair with a cup of espresso or hot chocolate.
- Top with fresh berries for extra flavor.
How to Store Hazelnut Cake
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for extra freshness.
- Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.
Tips to Make the Best Hazelnut Cake Recipe
- Toast hazelnuts before grinding for a deeper flavor.
- Use sour cream for a more tender crumb.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Variations of Hazelnut Cake
- Chocolate Hazelnut Cake: Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the batter.
- Coffee Hazelnut Cake: Stir in 1 tbsp espresso powder for a coffee kick.
- Gluten-Free Hazelnut Cake: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Caramel Hazelnut Cake: Drizzle caramel over the top before serving.
FAQs About Hazelnut Cake Recipe
Why is my hazelnut cake dry?
Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness—measure carefully and bake just until golden.
Can I use hazelnut flour instead of ground hazelnuts?
Yes, but the texture may be finer and slightly different.
How do I make my cake extra moist?
Adding an extra egg yolk or using buttermilk instead of milk can improve moisture.
Conclusion
This Hazelnut Cake Recipe is a delightful balance of nutty, buttery, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether served plain, with frosting, or a drizzle of caramel, it’s a must-try dessert. For more nut-based treats, check out this Pistachio Cardamom Eclairs Recipe.