Introduction
Ferrero Rocher Cake is a sumptuous delight that brings together the beloved flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts in a stunning dessert. This rich cake features layers of moist chocolate hazelnut cake, luscious Nutella frosting, and a delightful crunch from hazelnuts. Perfect for chocolate lovers and a splendid centerpiece for any celebration, this cake promises to impress with every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
200g all-purpose flour
50g cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
200g granulated sugar
150g unsalted butter, room temperature
3 large eggs
200ml buttermilk
100ml strong brewed coffee, cooled
1 tsp vanilla extract
150g chopped hazelnuts
200g Nutella
250g unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
400g powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
8-10 Ferrero Rocher chocolates (for decoration)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Enjoy this delectable Ferrero Rocher Cake that melds the flavors of rich chocolate, smooth Nutella, and crunchy hazelnuts into every luscious slice!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture should be set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Add the large eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation.
Step 5: Incorporate Vanilla Extract and Dry Ingredients
Mix in the vanilla extract. Begin to alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Step 6: Add Coffee and Hazelnuts
Stir in the cooled strong brewed coffee until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts for added texture.
Step 7: Divide and Bake the Batter
Evenly divide the batter among the three prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, beat the room temperature unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture is smooth.
Step 9: Combine Nutella and Cream
Add the Nutella and heavy cream to the butter and powdered sugar mixture. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
To assemble, spread a layer of frosting between each of the cooled cake layers. Once stacked, cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting to create a smooth surface.
Step 11: Decorate the Cake
Decorate the top of the cake with Ferrero Rocher chocolates and additional chopped hazelnuts as desired.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake, serve, and enjoy the delicious Ferrero Rocher Cake with friends and family!
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tip for Extra Moisture
For an even moister cake, you may brush the layers with additional brewed coffee before frosting.
Nutella Substitution
If Nutella is not available, consider using a similar chocolate-hazelnut spread as an alternative.
Nut Allergies
Be cautious with the added hazelnuts if you or your guests have nut allergies. The cake can still be great without them.
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings, depending on portion sizes.
Cook techniques
Sifting Dry Ingredients
Sifting flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt ensures a lighter batter by breaking up lumps and aerating the mixture.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Beating butter and sugar until light and fluffy incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
Adding Eggs
Adding eggs one at a time allows for better emulsification and ensures a smooth batter without separation.
Alternating Dry Ingredients and Liquid
Adding dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. Start and end with dry ingredients.
Folding in Hazelnuts
Gently fold in chopped hazelnuts at the end to maintain their crunch and prevent them from sinking in the batter.
Baking Time and Testing
Baking the cake layers until a toothpick inserted comes out clean ensures they are cooked through without becoming dry.
Making Frosting
Creme butter before gradually adding powdered sugar for a smooth texture, combining Nutella and cream will add richness and flavor to the frosting.
Assembling the Cake
Spread frosting between layers and cover the entire cake to create a decorative finish and enhance flavor with each slice.
Decorating with Ferrero Rocher
Placing Ferrero Rocher chocolates on top adds an upscale touch and reinforces the hazelnut-chocolate theme.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but adjust the measurements as needed since cake flour is more absorbent.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice, using 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance. Wrap them tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of Nutella for the frosting?
While it won’t have the same hazelnut flavor, you can use milk chocolate, but consider adding finely chopped hazelnuts to mimic the original flavor.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.
Conclusion
The Ferrero Rocher Cake is a splendid treat that combines the luxurious flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings or special occasions. Its moist layers paired with creamy Nutella frosting and the delightful crunch of Ferrero Rocher chocolates create an indulgent experience for chocolate lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply treating yourself, this cake will surely impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes
Transform the Ferrero Rocher Cake into individual cupcakes by using the same ingredients and baking them in cupcake liners. Frost with Nutella icing and top with a Ferrero Rocher for a cute presentation.
Nutella Cheesecake
Incorporate Nutella into a creamy cheesecake filling, adding crushed hazelnuts for texture. Bake in a chocolate cookie crust for a rich dessert that pays homage to the flavors of Ferrero Rocher.
Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
Create cookies with a chewy texture, blending cocoa powder and finely chopped hazelnuts into the dough. Roll in powdered sugar before baking for a sweet touch reminiscent of the iconic chocolate.
Ferrero Rocher Milkshake
Blend together vanilla ice cream, milk, and Nutella with crushed Ferrero Rocher chocolates, then drizzle chocolate syrup in the glass for a decadent milkshake that captures the essence of the cake.
Chocolate Hazelnut Pancakes
Make breakfast extra special by adding cocoa powder and finely chopped hazelnuts to your pancake batter. Serve topped with Nutella and crushed Ferrero Rocher for a delightful morning treat.