Italian Hazelnut Cake Recipe

Some desserts have the power to transport you straight to the heart of Italy, and the Italian Hazelnut Cake is one of them. I first made this delightful treat on a rainy Sunday afternoon, and let me tell you—it was an instant hit with my family. The rich nuttiness of roasted hazelnuts, combined with its rustic yet elegant appearance, made it a dessert to remember.

This Mediterranean dessert captures the simplicity and charm of traditional Italian baking, perfect for a cozy family gathering or an elegant celebration. If you’re looking to create a dessert that’s both beautiful and irresistibly delicious, this hazelnut cake recipe is a must-try!

What Makes My Italian Hazelnut Cake Recipe Unique?

What sets my Italian Hazelnut Cake apart is the use of perfectly roasted hazelnuts, which add an irresistible depth of flavor.

I pair this nutty goodness with a touch of dark chocolate ganache to enhance its richness. Unlike many traditional Italian hazelnut cakes, I use olive oil for added moisture and a subtle fruity undertone, staying true to Mediterranean roots.

This recipe also caters to modern needs with easy substitutions and unique additions like a layer of chocolate hazelnut spread or hazelnut praline for a crunchy twist. Whether you’re baking it as a simple rustic dessert or decorating it as an elegant birthday cake, this cake is sure to wow everyone.

Ingredients List for Italian Hazelnut Cake Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this rich and flavorful Italian hazelnut cake:

• 1 cup (150g) hazelnuts, roasted and finely ground
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup (30g) almond flour, for extra moisture
• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, for a caramel-like sweetness
• 1/3 cup (80ml) olive oil
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella) for a sponge cake filling
• For the ganache:
  • 100g dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream

Substitutions and Variations

• For a vegan option: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
• Flourless version: Swap the all-purpose flour with additional ground hazelnuts to create a flourless Italian hazelnut torte.
• Sweetener alternatives: Use coconut sugar or honey for a different flavor profile.
• Toppings: Instead of ganache, you can use buttercream, caramel drizzle, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a rustic finish.
• Add-ins: Fold in chopped dark chocolate, Ferrero Rocher pieces, or plum preserves to create unique layers of flavor.

Italian Hazelnut Cake Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Roast and Prepare the Hazelnuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking tray and roast them for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool slightly, then rub off the skins with a clean kitchen towel. Grind the hazelnuts into a fine meal using a food processor.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to mix until fully incorporated. Fold in the ground hazelnuts, almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in three batches, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and lined 8-inch round cake pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Assemble and Decorate

Spread a thin layer of chocolate hazelnut spread or hazelnut praline over the cake. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish. Optionally, decorate with whole roasted hazelnuts or Ferrero Rocher.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Italian Hazelnut Cake

• Over-roasting hazelnuts: This can make them bitter, so watch them closely while toasting.
• Skipping the egg whites: Beating and folding in the egg whites gives the cake its airy texture, so don’t skip this step.
• Not measuring accurately: Hazelnuts and flour can vary in weight; always use a kitchen scale for best results.
• Overmixing: Fold the batter gently to maintain its lightness and avoid a dense cake.

Italian Hazelnut Cake Serving and Presentation Tips

For a rustic look, serve the cake as-is with a dusting of powdered sugar. For an elegant dessert, garnish with swirls of buttercream, shards of hazelnut praline, and a drizzle of caramel. Pair with a cup of Italian espresso or a creamy cappuccino for the ultimate experience.

How to Serve Italian Hazelnut Cake

This cake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with sides like fresh whipped cream, a scoop of gelato, or even a dollop of mascarpone. It’s perfect as a centerpiece for birthdays, dinner parties, or festive celebrations.

Extra Recipe Tips for Italian Hazelnut Cake

• Make ahead: The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Enhancements: Add a layer of plum preserves or apricot jam between the cake and ganache for a fruity twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake without eggs?
A: Yes, use flaxseed as an egg substitute for a vegan version.

Q: How do I roast hazelnuts perfectly?
A: Roast at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to ensure even roasting.

Q: Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
A: Almonds or walnuts can work, but hazelnuts provide the traditional flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Italian Hazelnut Cake is a timeless dessert that balances tradition with a modern twist. Its rich, nutty flavor and versatile nature make it perfect for any occasion, from rustic family dinners to elegant celebrations.

With this easy and customizable recipe, you can bring a little piece of Italy into your home. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let this hazelnut cake recipe turn your everyday moments into something truly special!