Let’s Talk About This Heavenly Nutella Chocolate Cake
There’s something magical about a chocolate cake that can make any day feel special. And when you add Nutella to the mix, it’s like a little piece of heaven on a plate. This Nutella Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delight for the senses. It’s rich, moist, and oh-so-chocolatey, with a decadent Nutella filling that takes it to the next level. I’ve made this cake for countless family gatherings and birthday parties, and it never fails to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!
The Sweet History of Nutella Chocolate Cake
Chocolate cakes have been around for centuries, but the addition of Nutella is a more recent and delightful twist. Nutella, a creamy blend of hazelnuts and cocoa, was first created in Italy in the 1940s. It quickly became a beloved treat, and its nutty, chocolatey flavor is a perfect match for a classic chocolate cake. The combination of these two favorites has become a modern classic, loved by both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Nutella Chocolate Cake
First and foremost, the flavor! The deep, rich chocolate combined with the smooth, nutty taste of Nutella is a match made in culinary heaven. But it’s not just about the taste. This cake is also incredibly simple to make. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can whip up this delicious treat without breaking a sweat. Plus, the moist, tender crumb is truly irresistible.
Perfect Occasions to Prepare This Nutella Chocolate Cake
This cake is perfect for any special occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or just a family get-together, this Nutella Chocolate Cake is sure to be a hit. It’s also a great dessert for potlucks, bake sales, or anytime you want to spoil yourself or someone else with a bit of indulgence.
Ingredients for Nutella Chocolate Cake
- For the dough:
- 225g/8oz Unraised flour
- 350g/12oz Icing sugar
- 85g/3oz Cocoa powder
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Bicarbonate of soda
- 2 Eggs
- 250ml/9fl oz Milk
- 125ml/4fl oz Vegetable oil
- 2 Tsp vanilla extract
- 250ml/9fl oz Boiling water
- Nutella for the filling and chocolate syrup to decorate
Substitution Options
- Unraised flour: All-purpose flour
- Icing sugar: Granulated sugar (though it may change the texture slightly)
- Cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa
- Baking powder: Self-rising flour (adjust other ingredients accordingly)
- Vegetable oil: Canola oil or melted butter
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla bean paste or almond extract
Preparation of Nutella Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180C/350F. Grease two 20cm/8in cake tins. This step is crucial to ensure even baking and a lovely, golden crust. The aroma of the greased tins mixing with the warm oven will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: unraised flour, icing sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined. The color will be a deep, rich brown, and the texture will be silky and smooth.
Step 3: Add the Hot Water
Slowly add the boiling water to the batter, stirring continuously. The hot water helps to enhance the flavors and create a light, airy texture. The batter will become quite runny, but don’t worry; this is exactly what you want for a perfectly moist cake. The mixture will be dark and glossy, giving you a hint of the goodness to come.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes. The cakes are done when they are firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes will rise beautifully, and your kitchen will fill with the heavenly scent of baking chocolate.
Step 5: Cool the Cakes
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely while still in the pans. This step is important to prevent the cakes from breaking apart. Once cooled, run a round knife around the edges to loosen the cakes from the pans. Carefully remove the cakes and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Take one of the cooled cakes and spread a generous layer of Nutella on top. Place the second cake on top of the Nutella, creating a beautiful, layered effect. Transfer the assembled cake to a serving plate. Decorate the top with more Nutella and drizzle with chocolate syrup. The combination of the rich, chocolatey layers and the smooth, nutty Nutella is simply divine.
Timing for Nutella Chocolate Cake
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-35 minutes
- Resting time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 5-15 minutes
Chef’s Secret for Nutella Chocolate Cake
One of my favorite secrets is to use slightly warm Nutella for the filling. This makes it easier to spread and creates a more luscious, gooey filling. Simply warm the jar of Nutella in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes before using it.
Extra Info
Did you know that Nutella contains a high percentage of hazelnuts, which are not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and essential nutrients? This makes our Nutella Chocolate Cake a little less guilty pleasure and a little more nourishing!
Necessary Equipment for Nutella Chocolate Cake
- Two 20cm/8in cake tins
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or electric mixer
- Round knife
- Wire rack
- Serving plate
Storage for Nutella Chocolate Cake
Store the Nutella Chocolate Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator to prevent the Nutella from melting. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake (without the Nutella filling) for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
When you’re ready to serve, let the cake thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Add the Nutella filling and decorations right before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious. The cake will stay moist and flavorful, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
If you have leftovers, you can always re-purpose the cake. Crumble it and use it as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or even as a base for a trifle. The possibilities are endless, and the cake will remain a delicious treat no matter how you choose to enjoy it.
Tips and Advice for Nutella Chocolate Cake
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the best results. This helps the ingredients mix more evenly and creates a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the boiling water. A few gentle stirs should be enough to combine everything.
- Make sure the cakes are completely cool before adding the Nutella filling. This prevents the Nutella from melting and becoming too runny.
- For an extra touch of elegance, dust the top of the cake with a little bit of powdered sugar before adding the final decorations.
Presentation Tips for Nutella Chocolate Cake
- Add a few hazelnuts or chocolate chips on top of the cake for added texture and visual appeal.
- Use a piping bag to create swirls of Nutella on the top of the cake for a more professional look.
- Place a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side of each slice for a pop of color and freshness.
Healthier Alternative Recipes for Nutella Chocolate Cake
- Nutella Banana Brownies: A healthier take on brownies with the added sweetness of bananas. Perfect for those who love a bit of fruit in their desserts. Check out the recipe here.
- Nostalgic Chocolate Brownies: Classic, fudgy brownies that bring back memories. These are a great choice for those who prefer a traditional chocolate treat. Find the recipe here.
- Nantes Rum Almond Delight: A boozy, nutty delight that combines the richness of rum with the crunch of almonds. Ideal for adult gatherings. Get the recipe here.
- Naked Caramel Bars: A simpler, less sweet option with a caramel twist. These bars are a great alternative for those who prefer a lighter dessert. See the recipe here.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Nutella Chocolate Cake
Mistake 1: Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake. After adding the boiling water, mix the batter just until it’s smooth. Overmixing introduces too much air, which can result in a cake that’s dry and crumbly. Pro tip: Use a spatula to gently fold in the water, and stop mixing once the batter is smooth.
Mistake 2: Not Preheating the Oven
Not preheating your oven can cause the cake to bake unevenly. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 180C/350F before placing the cakes inside. This ensures that the cakes rise properly and bake evenly, resulting in a perfect texture. Pro tip: Use an oven thermometer to check the accuracy of your oven’s temperature.
Mistake 3: Using Cold Ingredients
Using cold ingredients can affect the texture and consistency of the cake. Make sure all your ingredients, especially the eggs and milk, are at room temperature. This helps them mix more evenly and creates a smoother, more uniform batter. Pro tip: Take your ingredients out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start baking.
Mistake 4: Not Cooling the Cakes Completely
Trying to assemble the cake while it’s still warm can cause the Nutella to melt and make a mess. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing them. This ensures that the Nutella stays in place and the cake layers don’t stick together. Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the cooling process by placing the cakes in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
Mistake 5: Overfilling the Cakes
Adding too much Nutella between the layers can make the cake unstable and difficult to cut. Use a thin, even layer of Nutella for the best results. This keeps the cake from becoming too heavy and ensures it holds its shape. Pro tip: Start with a small amount of Nutella and add more if needed, but be careful not to overdo it.
FAQ for Nutella Chocolate Cake
Can I use self-rising flour instead of unraised flour?
Yes, you can use self-rising flour, but you’ll need to adjust the other ingredients. Since self-rising flour already contains baking powder, you should omit the baking powder and bicarbonate of soda from the recipe. This will help maintain the right balance and achieve the desired texture.
How do I know when the cakes are done?
You can tell the cakes are done when they are firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should have a nice, even rise and a rich, chocolatey aroma. If the toothpick has a few crumbs, that’s okay; just make sure there’s no raw batter.