Growing in the Nebrodi mountain range of Sicily, hazelnuts take center stage in this delightful cake. Light, airy, and subtly sweet, this hazelnut cake is a perfect last-minute dessert option. While hazelnuts are often associated with Piemonte in northern Italy for their renowned quality, the lesser-known Nebrodi mountains in Sicily also boast a rich production of these flavorful nuts.
Having had the privilege of tasting freshly harvested hazelnuts from this region, I can attest to the unique and exquisite flavor they bring to this cake. The simplicity of this recipe allows the natural essence of the hazelnuts to shine through, making it a quick and easy treat for any occasion. Whether you use store-bought hazelnut flour or make your own, the result is a cake that is both decadent and comforting, perfect for hazelnut enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients for Hazelnut Cake
When making a scrumptious hazelnut cake, it’s essential to gather the finest ingredients that will bring out the rich flavors and delicate textures of this delightful dessert.
Cake Base
- 4 Eggs
- 50 to 60g (2 oz each) cartons of large eggs, at room temperature
- 160g (1 cup) Toasted hazelnuts
- 140g (10 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 160g (1 ⅓ cups) icing sugar
- 6g (1 tbsp) cocoa powder
- 60g (3 tbsp) Nutella
- 85g (3 oz) extra dark chocolate, melted and cooled
- Pinch of salt
- 15ml (1 tbsp) whipping cream
Hazelnut Paste
- 85g (3 oz) raw hazelnuts, roasted and peeled
- Sugar
- Cocoa
- Egg whites
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Necessary Equipment for Baking Hazelnut Cake
To prepare a delicious hazelnut cake, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure the baking process goes smoothly. Here are the necessary tools you’ll need:
- 2 8-inch round cake pans
- Electric hand mixer
- Food processor
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Tea towel
- Baking spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Having these tools on hand will help you efficiently roast the hazelnuts, prepare the cake batter, and bake the cake to perfection. Prepare your kitchen with these essential items before starting the baking process for your hazelnut cake.
Preparing the Hazelnut Paste
To enhance the rich hazelnut flavor in our cake, we’ll first need to create a smooth and aromatic hazelnut paste. Follow these steps to toast and blend the hazelnuts into a velvety paste that will elevate the taste and texture of your dessert.
Toasting and Skinning Hazelnuts
Begin by toasting your hazelnuts for a deeper, nuttier flavor. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for about 10-15 minutes until they become fragrant and golden brown. Let them cool slightly before rubbing them together in a kitchen towel to remove the skins easily.
Blending into Paste
Once your hazelnuts are toasted and skinned, transfer them to a food processor. Pulse the hazelnuts until they break down into a fine powder. Be careful not to over-process them, as this could turn them into hazelnut butter. Keep blending until you achieve a smooth and creamy hazelnut paste that will add a luscious nuttiness to your hazelnut cake.
Cake Batter Preparation
Preparing the cake batter is a crucial step in achieving a delicious hazelnut cake. Follow these simple steps to ensure a perfect outcome.
Combining Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, combine the hazelnut meal, baking soda, lemon zest, and salt.
- Whisk the dry ingredients together until evenly blended.
- Once you have prepared the smooth hazelnut paste, gently fold it into the cake batter mixture.
- Ensure the hazelnut paste is evenly distributed throughout the batter for a rich and nutty flavor profile.
Baking the Cake
Preheating and Pan Preparation
First, preheat the oven to 350 F. Line an 8 or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides for easy removal after baking.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the hazelnut cake for approximately 30-40 minutes in the preheated oven. The cake will be done when a cake tester comes out clean or when gently pressed, the top of the cake springs back.
Testing for Doneness
To check if the hazelnut cake is ready, insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean with no wet batter sticking to it, the cake is done. Additionally, a light press on the top should result in a firm and springy texture, indicating readiness.
Making the Frosting
Crafting the perfect frosting is the crowning glory of any cake masterpiece. Let me guide you through the process of creating a luscious hazelnut frosting that will elevate your cake to a whole new level.
Types of Frosting
There are various types of frostings to choose from, but for this hazelnut cake, we will be using a decadent chocolate hazelnut frosting. The combination of Nutella and buttercream yields a silky smooth texture with an unbelievably rich flavor. This frosting pairs perfectly with the hazelnut cake, offering a delightful contrast of sweetness and nuttiness.
Frosting Application
Once you have prepared the chocolate hazelnut frosting, it’s time to apply it to your cake. Start by generously spreading the frosting between each layer of the cake, ensuring an even distribution. Then, use a spatula to coat the top and sides of the cake with a thin layer of frosting for a polished finish. If desired, you can garnish the cake with chopped roasted hazelnuts and mini chocolate chips for added texture and visual appeal. Remember, the key to a beautifully frosted cake lies in patience and attention to detail.
Assembling the Cake
Putting together the hazelnut cake is where the magic really happens. Layering the cake with the decadent hazelnut buttercream and adding the final touches elevates it to a stunning dessert masterpiece.
Layering
To start layering the cake, carefully place the first cake layer on a cake plate or board. Generously frost it with the luscious hazelnut buttercream, ensuring an even spread. Sprinkle a portion of the chopped hazelnuts and mini chocolate chips over the frosting, creating a delightful texture with each bite.
Continue stacking the cake layers, repeating the frosting and topping process for each layer. Consider drizzling a bit of chocolate hazelnut spread on each layer for an extra burst of flavor. Once all layers are stacked, frost the entire cake to your desired thickness, covering it with more chopped hazelnuts and mini chocolate chips for decoration.
Final Touches
After layering the cake, add the final touches to enhance its visual appeal. Consider piping decorative florets of the hazelnut buttercream on the top layer and sprinkling additional chopped hazelnuts for an elegant finish. The final touches not only add texture and flavor but also make the hazelnut cake a picture-perfect dessert for any occasion.
Storage Tips for Hazelnut Cake
When it comes to storing your delicious hazelnut cake, here are some handy tips to ensure its freshness and flavor are well preserved.
Short-Term Storage
To keep your hazelnut cake fresh for a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure to cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat throughout the week.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to extend the shelf life of your hazelnut cake, freezing is your best option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator, and bring it to room temperature before serving. This method allows you to savor your hazelnut cake for up to three months without compromising its taste and texture.
Conclusion
Creating a hazelnut cake is a delightful experience that brings together the rich flavors of hazelnuts with the sweetness of chocolate in a harmonious blend. By following the detailed steps outlined in this article, you can craft a decadent dessert that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. From preparing the hazelnut paste to layering the cake with buttercream and chocolate chips, each stage contributes to the cake’s overall taste and presentation. With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy this hazelnut cake for an extended period without compromising its quality. Whether for a special celebration or a casual indulgence, this hazelnut cake recipe offers a delicious treat that is both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty.