Indulge in the decadent delight of Nutella swirl pound cake – a rich and moist quick bread adorned with a luscious hazelnut chocolate ribbon. This recipe promises a flavorful journey through buttery pound cake bliss with gooey Nutella swirls in every bite. As a seasoned food blogger, this Nutella-infused creation has always been on my baking bucket list, and now I’m thrilled to share this scrumptious treat with you.
Inspired by leftover Nutella from a previous baking adventure, this pound cake recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. The delightful marriage of Nutella’s creamy richness with the classic pound cake texture creates a heavenly dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious. Join me in savoring this nostalgic yet timeless Nutella swirl pound cake recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
Nutella and Alternatives
- 1 jar of Nutella (13 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 sticks of unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Equipment Needed
Before starting the delicious journey of making Nutella swirl pound cake, it’s important to gather all the necessary equipment. Having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 9.5-inch loaf pan
- Medium-sized mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Wire rack for cooling
Instructions
Prepare, mix the batter, and add Nutella swirls to create a delightful Nutella swirl pound cake.
Preparation Phase
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it.
- Lightly beat the eggs with vanilla extract in a glass measuring cup.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Ensure the butter is softened and the Nutella is ready for use.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Gradually beat in the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
- Add the flour mixture in 3 batches, beating at low speed between additions.
- Beat for an additional 30 seconds to ensure the ingredients are fully combined.
- Spread one-third of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Layer half of the Nutella on top of the batter.
- Repeat with another layer of batter and the remaining Nutella.
- Use a knife or skewer to create swirls in the batter.
- Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick at the one-hour mark.
- Once baked, let the cake cool before slicing and serving.
Baking
Preheating and Baking
To start baking the Nutella swirl pound cake, preheat your oven to 325°F. Make sure to properly grease a 9.5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking. Once the oven is ready, you can proceed with mixing the batter and preparing the Nutella swirls.
Checking Doneness
After baking the Nutella swirl pound cake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, it’s essential to check for doneness. At the one-hour mark, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake. While chocolatey bits of Nutella are acceptable, ensure the skewer comes out clean to indicate that the cake is thoroughly baked. If needed, continue baking until fully done.
Serving
As you serve this luscious Nutella swirl pound cake, the anticipation rises to taste the decadent harmony of flavors and textures. The following steps will guide you through the final stages of presentation and serving.
Cooling and Cutting
After baking, allow the Nutella swirl pound cake to cool in the loaf pan for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps the cake settle and ensures easy removal from the pan. Once cooled, invert the cake onto a wire rack or serving plate, letting it cool completely for approximately 2 hours. This thorough cooling process allows the flavors to develop fully and results in a moist, tender texture. When ready, cut the cake into slices, revealing the beautiful Nutella swirls within, ready to delight your taste buds.
Presentation Tips
For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing each slice of the Nutella swirl pound cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of additional warmed Nutella. The rich chocolate-hazelnut aroma emanating from the cake will captivate your senses, making this dessert a showstopper at any gathering. Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the dessert’s indulgent qualities. Serve the Nutella swirl pound cake with a warm cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk for a satisfying treat that will leave your guests craving more.
Storage Instructions
After enjoying this delectable Nutella swirl pound cake, you may find yourself with leftovers that you want to preserve for later indulgence. Here are some simple storage instructions to keep your pound cake fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature:
- If the cake is to be consumed within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature. Place the pound cake in an airtight container or cover it securely with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration:
- For longer storage, up to a week, refrigerate the Nutella swirl pound cake. Wrap the cake well in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. This helps maintain its moisture and texture.
- Freezing:
- To extend the shelf life even further, consider freezing the pound cake. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Properly stored, Nutella swirl pound cake can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing:
- When ready to enjoy the frozen pound cake, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gradual thawing preserves the cake’s texture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Before serving leftover pound cake, consider warming it up slightly in the microwave or oven for a fresh-from-the-oven taste. You can also add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of Nutella for an extra decadent touch.
By following these storage instructions, you can ensure that your Nutella swirl pound cake remains moist, flavorful, and ready to delight your taste buds whenever the cravings strike.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the ins and outs of creating a delectable Nutella swirl pound cake, from the recipe details to storage tips. By following these guidelines, you can savor the rich flavors of this cake for days to come. Whether you choose to enjoy it at room temperature, chilled, or even frozen, your pound cake will maintain its deliciousness. Remember to thaw it properly before serving to preserve its texture and taste. With these insights, you’re all set to bake, store, and indulge in your Nutella swirl pound cake whenever the craving strikes. Happy baking!
