Decadent Hazelnut Mocha Cake Recipe

This Hazelnut Mocha Cake recipe combines rich chocolate and coffee flavors with the nutty essence of hazelnuts, creating a delightful dessert perfect for special occasions. The moist layers are complemented by a creamy hazelnut frosting, making it a favorite among cake lovers.

The cake recipe is straightforward and can be made with basic baking techniques. It’s an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts and those who appreciate the unique flavor of hazelnuts.

Indulgent Hazelnut Mocha Cake Recipe

This Hazelnut Mocha Cake features layers of chocolate cake infused with espresso and hazelnut, layered with a smooth hazelnut buttercream. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 8 people.

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
1 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Chocolate shavings or whole hazelnuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water and espresso powder until combined.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and heavy cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Garnish: Decorate with chocolate shavings or whole hazelnuts if desired. Slice and serve.