You’ve stumbled upon the ultimate Nutella chocolate cake recipe that promises to be the star of any gathering. Yummy, rich, and irresistibly chocolatey, this cake is a dream come true for Nutella lovers.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of Nutella and cocoa powder ensures a deep, rich chocolate flavor that’s unmatched.
- Using buttermilk in the batter makes the cake incredibly moist and tender.
- The simple frosting technique with Nutella and whipped cream adds a luxurious finish without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1 cup heavy cream
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out perfectly. This step is crucial for a non-stick finish.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps to avoid lumps and ensures a smooth batter.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay!
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Frost and Serve
Once cooled, spread Nutella between the layers and over the top of the cake. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and spread it over the Nutella for a light, fluffy finish. Serve and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
For an even more decadent cake, try adding a layer of chopped hazelnuts between the cake layers. If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought chocolate cake mix as a base, but don’t skip the Nutella frosting! To ensure your cake layers are perfectly even, use a kitchen scale to weigh the batter as you divide it between the pans.
Recipe Variations
- Add a layer of banana slices for a Nutella-banana twist.
- Incorporate espresso powder into the batter for a mocha flavor.
- Top with fresh berries for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Use dark chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for a more intense chocolate experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitution for best results.
How should I store the cake?
This cake is best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve used whipped cream frosting, refrigerate and consume within 2 days.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and thaw at room temperature before frosting.
Summary
This Nutella chocolate cake is a showstopper, perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, rich flavor, and easy frosting, it’s sure to become a favorite.