As I pulled out the delicate layers of my fresh-baked Nutella Cake from the oven, an intoxicating aroma of chocolate enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a world of sweet indulgence. If you’re a dessert lover seeking to impress with an effortlessly stunning treat, this Nutella Cake is a must-try. With six layers of decadent chocolate cake paired with luxuriously fluffy Nutella Swiss meringue buttercream, plus a rich Nutella ganache, it’s easy to see why this cake becomes the center of attention at any gathering. Not only does this recipe promise a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth, but it’s also surprisingly straightforward—perfect for anyone, regardless of skill level. So, are you ready to take your baking game to new heights and delight in every chocolatey bite?
Why is Nutella Cake a must-try?
Decadent Layers: Each layer of chocolate cake is moist and rich, perfectly complementing the creamy Nutella buttercream. Velvety Buttercream: The Swiss meringue buttercream offers a delightful lightness, balancing the cake’s intensity. Impressive Presentation: With six layers, this cake is not just delicious but a stunning centerpiece for any event. Easy to Customize: You can easily switch things up by adding berries or nuts for a unique twist. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy any chocolate lover. Plus, check out my Jellycat Birthday Cake for another delightful dessert option!
Nutella Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Layers
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar can lower the glycemic index.
• Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder – Imparts rich chocolate flavor and dark color; regular unsweetened cocoa powder works too.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure both are fresh for best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; no substitutions needed.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps cake moist; melted butter or light olive oil make good substitutes.
• Buttermilk – Adds tenderness; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar.
• Hot Water/Coffee – Enhances chocolate flavor; use brewed coffee or hot water as per preference.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and aids leavening; no alternative recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor depth; can be replaced with vanilla bean paste or omitted.
For the Buttercream
• Egg Whites – Provides fluffiness to buttercream; carton egg whites can be used in a pinch.
• Unsalted Butter – Delivers creaminess in buttercream; opt for salted butter if adjusting salt content.
• Nutella – Main flavor component of both buttercream and ganache; no substitution recommended.
For the Ganache
• Heavy Cream – Contributes to ganache’s richness; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
• Chopped Hazelnuts (optional) – Adds texture and flavor contrast; almonds or pecans can be substituted.
Enjoy creating this exquisite Nutella Cake and bringing joy to your dessert table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Cake
Step 1: Prepare Cakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 6-inch round cake pans, dusting them with flour. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients: vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, hot water or coffee, and vanilla extract. Mix the two mixtures together until just combined, then divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make Buttercream
While the cakes cool, prepare the Nutella Swiss meringue buttercream. In a heatproof bowl, combine egg whites and sugar, whisking vigorously over a pot of simmering water until the sugar completely dissolves. Once dissolved, remove from heat and beat the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add in softened unsalted butter and Nutella, mixing until the buttercream is smooth and creamy. This fluffy buttercream will perfectly complement your Nutella Cake layers.
Step 3: Prepare Ganache
For the rich Nutella ganache, place Nutella and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. If necessary, strain the ganache to remove any lumps, then allow it to cool at room temperature until it thickens slightly. This luscious ganache will add an indulgent touch to your Nutella Cake.
Step 4: Assemble Cake
Once the cake layers are fully cooled, carefully slice each layer in half, creating six layers in total. Start with one layer and spread about ½ cup of the Nutella buttercream evenly on top. Drizzle a little ganache over the buttercream for added richness. Repeat the process for remaining layers, carefully stacking them one on top of the other. Make sure the layers are centered to maintain a balanced cake.
Step 5: Decorate
To finish your stunning Nutella Cake, apply a crumb coat of buttercream around the exterior to trap any crumbs. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the crumb coat. Once chilled, generously frost the top and sides with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it out using a cake comb or spatula. Decorate the edges with dollops of ganache for a beautiful drip effect. Voilà! Your Nutella Cake is ready to impress!
What to Serve with Nutella Cake
Indulging in a slice of Nutella Cake is just the beginning; let’s elevate your dessert experience with these delightful pairings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing, creamy contrast to the rich chocolate layers, enhancing every bite.
- Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a juicy, tangy burst that perfectly balances the cake’s sweetness—a delightful explosion of flavors!
- Espresso or Coffee: A hot cup of espresso or a rich coffee complements the chocolate, making each sip and bite a heavenly combination.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce on top enhances the chocolate allure, making it extra indulgent for chocolate lovers.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense layers.
- Hazelnut Liqueur: Serve a small glass of hazelnut liqueur alongside for an adult twist, accentuating the Nutella flavor while adding warmth to your experience.
- Mint Tea: For a refreshing finish, a warm cup of mint tea can cleanse the palate after the rich chocolate delight.
- Chocolate Stout Cake: Pairing with another chocolate dessert like a chocolate stout cake creates a chocolate lover’s dream feast for gatherings.
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a luxurious caramel drizzle over your slice for a sweet and salty contrast, enhancing the Nutella experience even further.
- Decorated Fruit Platter: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a colorful and fresh element to your dessert spread, making it visually captivating.
Nutella Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful Nutella Cake to fit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the cake moist and tender without gluten.
- Lower-Sugar: Opt for coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index and a subtle caramel flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar and use coconut cream for the ganache.
- Nutty Twist: Add crushed almonds or pecans for added texture, giving each bite a delightful crunch that complements the Nutella flavor.
- Berry Delight: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries in between cakes and on top for a fruity freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.
- Mocha Magic: Swap out some hot water for brewed espresso to give an extra coffee boost, intensifying the chocolate flavor.
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a new flavor profile, enhancing the cake’s overall depth.
- Mini Cakes: Bake the batter in mini cake pans or muffin tins for adorable single-serve treats, reducing baking time drastically.
These variations will help you explore different flavors and textures while making this Nutella Cake uniquely yours! And if you’re looking for more delicious cake ideas, why not try a Russian Honey Cake or a delightful Cinnamon Roll Cake? Enjoy your baking adventure!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Nutella Cake ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and ensure a stress-free dessert for any occasion! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The Nutella Swiss meringue buttercream can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge and re-whip before using to restore its fluffy texture. For the ganache, prepare it up to 48 hours prior, refrigerating it until you’re ready to use. When it’s time to assemble the cake, layer the chilled components together, and finish with the final decorations for a show-stopping dessert that’s just as delicious as when made fresh.
Storage Tips for Nutella Cake
Fridge: Store your Nutella Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake fresh and prevents it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices of Nutella Cake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can affect the creaminess of the Nutella inside!
Expert Tips for Nutella Cake
Egg White Whipping: Ensure no yolks are present when whipping egg whites for the meringue. Even a tiny bit of fat can prevent proper fluffiness.
Buttercream Mixing: The Nutella buttercream may look curdled at first; keep mixing until smooth and creamy for a perfect texture.
Ganache Control: Drizzle less ganache between cake layers to prevent sliding. Too much can cause layers to shift and disrupt your beautiful cake.
Layer Evenness: When slicing your cake layers, be precise to ensure even stacking. Uneven layers can lead to an unstable cake.
Final Decoration: Use extra frosting on the sides for a smooth finish, and don’t hesitate to have fun with decorative ganache drips for that eye-catching effect.
Crafting your Nutella Cake using these helpful tips will guide you to a truly stunning dessert!
Nutella Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate is best for the cake layers?
Absolutely! Using Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give your cake a rich chocolate flavor and dark color. However, if you don’t have it on hand, regular unsweetened cocoa powder works just fine. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly less intense.
How should I store my Nutella Cake?
To keep your Nutella Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, consider freezing individual slices! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Can I freeze the Nutella Cake?
Certainly! Freezing your Nutella Cake is a great way to preserve its deliciousness. To do so, slice the cake (if you prefer) and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. This double wrapping will prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture.
What can I do if my buttercream looks curdled?
Very! If your Nutella Swiss meringue buttercream appears curdled, don’t worry! Simply continue to whip it on high speed. Sometimes it just needs a little more mixing to come together in a smooth and creamy consistency. Be patient, as it can take a few minutes.
Are there any allergens in the Nutella Cake?
The Nutella Cake contains common allergens, including eggs, dairy (from the butter and cream), and wheat (from the flour). If you’re baking for someone with allergies, you can use gluten-free flour and coconut cream as a dairy-free substitute for the ganache. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens or cross-contamination.
What is the best way to ensure even cake layers?
A great tip for even layers is to use a cake leveler or a serrated knife. Carefully slice each layer in half while keeping the knife parallel to the cake board. This will help maintain uniform layers for a balanced cake. If you notice any dome on your baked cakes, you can trim that off before stacking!
Decadent Nutella Cake That Will Steal the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 6-inch round cake pans, dusting them with flour. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients: vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, hot water or coffee, and vanilla extract. Mix the two mixtures together until just combined, then divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the Nutella Swiss meringue buttercream. In a heatproof bowl, combine egg whites and sugar, whisking vigorously over a pot of simmering water until the sugar completely dissolves. Once dissolved, remove from heat and beat the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add in softened unsalted butter and Nutella, mixing until the buttercream is smooth and creamy.
- For the rich Nutella ganache, place Nutella and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. If necessary, strain the ganache to remove any lumps, then allow it to cool at room temperature until it thickens slightly.
- Once the cake layers are fully cooled, carefully slice each layer in half, creating six layers in total. Start with one layer and spread about ½ cup of the Nutella buttercream evenly on top. Drizzle a little ganache over the buttercream for added richness. Repeat the process for remaining layers, carefully stacking them one on top of the other.
- To finish your stunning Nutella Cake, apply a crumb coat of buttercream around the exterior to trap any crumbs. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the crumb coat. Once chilled, generously frost the top and sides with the remaining buttercream. Decorate the edges with dollops of ganache for a beautiful drip effect. Voilà! Your Nutella Cake is ready to impress!