Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake** Recipe

If you dream in chocolate and swoon for Nutella, this Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake is the delight you’ve been waiting for! Imagine four pillowy-soft layers of rich chocolate cake, filled and frosted with creamy Nutella buttercream and draped in a glossy Nutella ganache, all topped off with toasted hazelnuts and Ferrero Rocher chocolates. This show-stopper is what chocolate-hazelnut dreams are made of—a celebration-worthy dessert that’s decadent, comforting, and wildly impressive at the same time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something over-the-top delicious, this Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake will steal the show and win hearts.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cake might look fancy, but the ingredients are wonderfully simple—each one brings something essential to the table, from luscious texture to deep chocolate flavor. A few pantry basics and a swirl of Nutella come together to create absolute cake magic!

• All-purpose flour: The base for a sturdy yet tender chocolate cake—sift for extra fluffiness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the cocoa and keeps everything moist.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Use a good-quality cocoa for intense chocolate depth.
• Baking soda & baking powder: These leaveners lift the cake so you get lovely, light layers.
• Salt: A pinch sharpens and enhances all the other flavors.
• Buttermilk: It brings tenderness and a subtle tang—don’t skip this for that perfect crumb.
• Hot brewed coffee: Coffee intensifies the chocolate, but you won’t taste the coffee itself.
• Vegetable oil: Creates an ultra-moist crumb; don’t substitute with butter if you want the softest cake!
• Large eggs: Help bind the batter and give structure.
• Vanilla extract: A hidden layer of warmth, never optional in my kitchen.
• Unsalted butter: For that ultra-creamy Nutella buttercream, softened to dreamy spreadability.
• Nutella: The star ingredient! Adds both flavor and silky richness to the frosting and ganache.
• Powdered sugar: Makes the buttercream cloud-light and perfectly sweet.
• Heavy cream: Essential for smooth, swirl-able buttercream and an ultra-glossy ganache.
• Semi-sweet chocolate: Chopped chocolate melts for a luxurious ganache—not too sweet, just right.
• Toasted chopped hazelnuts: Crunchy, nutty, and aromatic—they elevate every bite!
• Ferrero Rocher chocolates: The ultimate decorative flourish and a little taste of luxury on top.

How to Make Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing two 9-inch round pans with grease and flour. In one large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, hot coffee, oil, eggs, and vanilla—this clever mix ensures soft, bouncy layers. Pour the wet into the dry and mix just until smooth. Divide the batter evenly, bake for 30-35 minutes, and let the cakes cool completely. Once cooled, carefully slice each cake horizontally to create four dreamy layers—no need to panic if they’re not perfectly even, this cake is very forgiving!

Step 2: Whip Up the Nutella Buttercream

In comes the magic—Nutella buttercream! Beat softened butter and Nutella together until they’re impossibly creamy. Mix in the powdered sugar gradually to avoid clouds of sugar, then add the heavy cream and vanilla. Whip until light, fluffy, and ready to swirl. You’ll want to eat it by the spoonful, but save plenty for layering and frosting the cake.

Step 3: Make the Nutella Ganache Filling & Drip

Place chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl. Warm the heavy cream until it’s just simmering and pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit—really, just let it be—for five minutes, then add Nutella and whisk until the ganache is totally smooth. Allow it to cool until it thickens to a spreadable consistency. This ganache will be both a filling and the glossy drip on top, so don’t rush this step!

Step 4: Assemble the Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake

The fun begins with assembly: place your first cake layer on a serving platter and spread on a generous swoosh of Nutella buttercream. Add the second layer and slather with Nutella ganache. Keep alternating fillings as you stack—the contrast makes every slice spectacular! Once all four layers are stacked, frost the whole cake in a cozy blanket of Nutella buttercream. Don’t worry if crumbs sneak in; that’s why we love this rich frosting so much—it covers all ‘mistakes.’

Step 5: Add the Ganache Drip and Final Touches

Once the cake is frosted, take your slightly thinned ganache and pour it gently over the top, letting it drip naturally down the sides. You don’t need to be a pastry chef—imperfections are beautiful! Finish with a dramatic tumble of Ferrero Rocher chocolates and a generous sprinkle of chopped toasted hazelnuts. Step back and admire your handmade masterpiece!

How to Serve Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake

Garnishes

The classic finish for the Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake is a crown of Ferrero Rocher chocolates and a generous dusting of toasted hazelnuts. For extra sparkle, you can add gold leaf or a sprinkle of edible glitter—because after all, you’re celebrating!

Side Dishes

This cake pairs marvelously with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut gelato, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a handful of fresh raspberries. Need a beverage? Try it with strong espresso, cappuccino, or a nice dessert wine for pure indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dazzle guests, serve each slice with a personalized chocolate plaque or drizzle the plate with extra ganache. Tiny jars of Nutella on the side for dipping or spreading? Why not! Smaller, round mini-cakes made in ramekins also make for delightful party servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake stays shockingly moist for days. Store leftovers in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest—if you have the willpower to make it last that long!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake (without the Ferrero Rocher garnish) tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature for full flavor and softness. Add fresh garnishes after thawing for best appearance.

Reheating

Generally, this cake is best served at room temperature, but if you want that slightly warm, gooey experience, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The ganache will get glossy and the layers irresistibly fudgy—just be careful not to overheat and melt the buttercream.

FAQs

Can I make Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers and prepare the buttercream and ganache one or two days in advance. Store them separately, then assemble and decorate the day you plan to serve for the best freshness.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture will still be deliciously fluffy and the chocolate-hazelnut flavor will shine through.

Can I use another chocolate hazelnut spread instead of Nutella?

Certainly! While Nutella is classic, other chocolate-hazelnut spreads work similarly. Just make sure it’s smooth and creamy for the best buttercream and ganache texture.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No problem! Stir one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice or vinegar into a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. Instant homemade buttermilk that works perfectly for this cake.

How do I get perfect ganache drips?

The trick is in the temperature—let the ganache cool until it’s thick but pourable. Use a spoon or squeeze bottle and gently nudge the ganache over the edge, allowing it to flow down naturally. Each drip will be unique!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress, celebrate, or just treat yourself, there’s nothing quite like this Nutella Hazelnut Layer Cake. With its lush layers, creamy fillings, and stunning presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Don’t wait for a special occasion—grab your apron, invite a friend or two, and dive into chocolate-hazelnut heaven!