Mocha Hazelnut Cake Recipe

Mocha Hazelnut Cake is a luxurious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coffee, and hazelnuts. This recipe features a moist chocolate cake with a hint of espresso, layered and topped with a creamy Nutella frosting and garnished with toasted hazelnuts. It's perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1. ¾ cup butter, softened
2. 1-¼ cups packed brown sugar
3. 1 cup sugar
4. 3 large eggs, room temperature
5. 3 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
6. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
7. 2-¼ cups all-purpose flour
8. 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
9. 1 teaspoon baking soda
10. ½ teaspoon baking powder
11. ¼ teaspoon salt
12. 1-½ cups 2% milk

For the Frosting:

1. 1 cup butter, softened
2. 1 cup Nutella
3. 4 cups confectioners' sugar
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5. 3 to 4 tablespoons 2% milk
6. ½ cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

 

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition.

Step 6: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

For the Frosting:

Step 8: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and Nutella until smooth.

Step 9: Gradually beat in the confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a spreading consistency.

Step 10: Spread frosting between layers and over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 11: Garnish the cake with toasted chopped hazelnuts.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the Mocha Hazelnut Cake as a decadent dessert at your next gathering or enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or espresso.

Tips:

1. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
2. For the frosting, adjust the milk quantity to get your desired consistency.
3. You can toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant for enhanced flavor.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling)

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving.
• Protein: Approximately 6-8 grams per serving.
• Sodium: Approximately 200-300 mg per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Conclusion: This Mocha Hazelnut Cake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, coffee, and nuts. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress with its rich taste and elegant presentation.