If you’re looking to impress at your next special occasion or simply want to treat yourself (because you absolutely deserve it), this Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake is the dessert to choose. Imagine moist chocolate cake layers hugged by Nutella-rich buttercream, luxurious Nutella filling, an irresistible chocolate ganache glaze, and a crown of crunchy hazelnuts and Ferrero Rocher. Every bite is decadent, nutty, and chocolatey—exactly what its name promises. Whether you’re a Nutella fanatic or a cake lover, this showstopper brings bakery-level indulgence right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You may be surprised at how ordinary the ingredients are for a cake that tastes anything but! Each one plays a starring role: from buttermilk for tenderness, to hot coffee for amplified chocolate flavor, to Nutella delivering that iconic creaminess. Gather these before you get started, and you’re already halfway to heaven.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, ensuring a sturdy yet tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with structure and moisture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For deep chocolate flavor in every single bite.
- Baking soda & baking powder: Our trusty leavening duo for that gorgeous rise and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch making all the other flavors pop.
- Buttermilk: Brings a subtle tang and makes the cake wonderfully moist.
- Strong brewed coffee, hot: Intensifies the chocolate and keeps the cake tender (don’t worry, the cake won’t taste like coffee!).
- Vegetable oil: Results in a soft, plush crumb that stays moist for days.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness—room temperature for best results.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out all the chocolate and hazelnut flavors deliciously.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Key to a fluffy, creamy hazelnut buttercream.
- Nutella: The star of the show—smooth, rich, and gloriously nutty both in the filling and the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the buttercream, giving it that cloud-like texture.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness to both the buttercream and the ganache.
- Pinch of salt (for buttercream): Balances the sweetness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted into a glossy, pourable ganache topping.
- Whole Ferrero Rocher (or similar): Adds drama, texture, and pure chocolate hazelnut bliss to the top.
- Toasted and chopped hazelnuts: For extra crunch and flavor—don’t skip this finishing touch!
How to Make Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F), and preparing two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them well. Whisk your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt—in one large bowl. In another, combine the buttermilk, hot coffee, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and stir just until blended. Don’t panic if the batter is thin; that’s how you get those ultra-moist layers. Divide it evenly, bake until a toothpick comes out clean (about 30–35 minutes), then cool. Once completely cool, slice each cake in half horizontally to give yourself four even layers—more room for creamy fillings!
Step 2: Prepare the Hazelnut Buttercream
For the most luscious frosting ever, beat together your softened butter and Nutella until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar (a cup at a time), mixing on low to avoid a sugar shower in your kitchen. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla, sprinkle in salt, then whip it up until the texture is light, fluffy, and ready to spread. This buttercream tastes like a Nutella daydream, and you might find yourself sneaking a spoonful before it makes it onto the cake—no judgment here!
Step 3: Assemble the Cake with Nutella Filling
Place your first cake layer on a serving plate, spread a thin layer of Nutella filling (just Nutella, pure and simple), and then an even layer of hazelnut buttercream over that. Repeat this delicious process with the next two layers. Once you’ve placed the final cake layer on top, use the rest of your buttercream to frost the entire cake with gentle swoops and swirls. Pop the whole thing in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the frosting can set into its luxurious, picture-perfect self.
Step 4: Finish with Ganache and Garnishes
Melt together the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl (in 30-second bursts), stirring until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool and thicken just a bit, then pour it over the frosted cake, encouraging it to drip dramatically down the sides. Top your creation with sparkling rows of Ferrero Rocher and a generous sprinkle of toasted, chopped hazelnuts. The end result is rich, glossy, and 100 percent irresistible—this is where the Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake goes from delicious to truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake

Garnishes
Go all out with whole Ferrero Rocher, extra swirls of Nutella buttercream, and even a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a showstopping finish. Chopped toasted hazelnuts add fantastic crunch, and you can even shave a bit of dark chocolate on top for an elegant touch. It’s fun to play around and personalize your cake with whatever cocoa-inspired embellishments you love.
Side Dishes
Since the cake is so richly decadent, pair it with something light and refreshing to balance things out. Think fresh berries (raspberries or strawberries look beautiful and taste divine), a scoop of vanilla bean gelato, or even a simple dollop of unsweetened whipped cream. For coffee lovers, nothing complements the Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake better than an espresso or cappuccino alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
This is the kind of cake that loves to be the center of attention, so don’t be shy—use a cake stand and let those ganache drips shine. For parties, try slicing it into tall, thin wedges for dramatic effect, or bake mini versions for elegant individual servings. You could even turn leftover layers and frosting into decadent cake parfaits in glasses—a stunning idea for dinner parties or special brunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake left, store covered slices in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist for several days, and the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to let slices come to room temperature before serving, so the buttercream goes back to its soft, creamy glory.
Freezing
For longer storage, carefully wrap individual cake slices or the whole (un-garnished) cake in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. It keeps beautifully for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving and topping with fresh ganache and hazelnuts if desired.
Reheating
Cake like this is best enjoyed at room temperature, not hot! If serving from the fridge, just let your slice sit out for about 30 minutes before digging in. If you’ve frozen your cake, allow it to thaw fully before serving—no microwaves needed here, as a gentle thaw keeps all the textures perfect.
FAQs
Can I make the Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature. Even the buttercream can be made ahead and refrigerated—just give it a good beat before using to restore its creamy texture.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
No buttermilk? No problem! Just mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for five minutes, and proceed as directed. It will deliver the same lovely tang and tenderness to your cake.
Is there a good substitute for Ferrero Rocher for decorating?
Yes! Any chocolate hazelnut truffle or even plain chocolate truffles will do. You can also skip the truffles and just go heavy on chopped toasted hazelnuts for a classic look.
How should I slice the cake for best results?
Use a sharp, long, thin knife and clean it between slices for neat, bakery-worthy wedges. If your cake is cold, let it come a bit closer to room temperature before slicing to avoid cracking the ganache.
Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake?
Certainly! This Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake doubles well—just use larger pans and watch your bake times. You can also make it as a sheet cake or even cupcakes for a fun twist on the presentation.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re feeling inspired to whip up this Nutella Hazelnut Luxury Cake for yourself or your loved ones. It’s indulgent, beautiful, and absolutely packed with chocolate-hazelnut joy! Don’t forget to savor every dreamy, Nutella-infused bite—you’ve earned it.
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