Heavenly Nutella Chocolate Cake: A Fusion of Richness and Flavor

Ingredients

Before you embark on this delightful baking adventure, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Nutella Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 and 1/2 cups Nutella (hazelnut chocolate spread)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• Chopped hazelnuts
• Chocolate curls or shavings
• Drizzle of Nutella

Tools:

• 9-inch round cake pans (2)
• Offset spatula
• Piping bags and tips (optional)
• Cake turntable (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparing the Cake Batter:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your cake pans.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
• Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
• Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly normal.

2. Baking the Cake:

• Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans.
• Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Whipping Up the Nutella Frosting:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add the Nutella, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is luscious and well combined.

4. Assembling and Frosting:

• Level the cake layers using a serrated knife or cake leveler.
• Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of Nutella frosting on top.
• Gently place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer.

5. Frosting the Entire Cake:

• Apply a thin layer of frosting all over the cake to create a crumb coat. This will help seal in any crumbs.
• Refrigerate the cake for about 20-30 minutes to set the crumb coat.

6. The Nutella Finish:

• Once the crumb coat is set, generously frost the entire cake with the remaining Nutella frosting using an offset spatula.
• Create swirls or patterns on the cake’s surface for added flair.

7. Decoration and Finishing Touches:

• Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on the sides of the cake, gently pressing them into the frosting.
• Adorn the top of the cake with chocolate curls or shavings for an elegant touch.
• Drizzle warmed Nutella over the cake for an extra layer of indulgence.

8. Time to Delight:

• Your Nutella Chocolate Cake is now ready to be enjoyed!
• Slice into the cake and relish the exquisite blend of chocolate and hazelnut flavors.

Crafting a Nutella Chocolate Cake is a delightful adventure that combines the magic of Nutella with the charm of a moist chocolate cake. By following this step-by-step guide, you’re well-equipped to create a dessert that’s not only visually stunning but also a dream come true for your taste buds. Whether it’s a special occasion or a moment of self-indulgence, this cake promises to be a decadent masterpiece that leaves you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, embrace your inner baker, and embark on the journey of creating a Nutella Chocolate Cake that’s bound to become a cherished favorite.