Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake

Name: Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup hazelnut spread

Highlighted under: Indulgent Dessert Recipes

Indulge in the decadent flavors of Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake, a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with the nutty essence of hazelnuts.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:37:48.713Z

The Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a delightful celebration of flavors, perfect for any occasion. This cake combines rich chocolate and toasted hazelnuts, creating a unique and indulgent dessert that will impress your guests.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a testament to the art of baking, merging the deep richness of chocolate with the warm, nutty notes of hazelnuts. This cake captivates your taste buds with every bite, offering a delightful contrast between sweet and savory. The addition of orange zest not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also introduces a refreshing brightness that elevates the entire dessert experience.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat, this cake stands out with its complex flavor profile. The combination of creamy frosting and moist cake creates a harmonious blend that will leave guests asking for seconds. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine to further enhance the experience.

A Showstopper for Any Occasion

This cake is more than just a dessert; it's a centerpiece that will impress your friends and family. Its rich, dark color and glossy frosting make it visually stunning, perfect for birthday parties, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings. The Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is sure to be the star of the table, drawing everyone in with its enticing aroma and beautiful presentation.

Moreover, the versatility of this cake allows for creative variations. You can easily adapt the recipe by incorporating different nuts or adding layers of fruit. This flexibility ensures that you can personalize the cake to suit the preferences of your guests, making it a go-to recipe for any baking enthusiast.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake turns out perfectly every time, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale for dry ingredients can help you achieve the right balance, resulting in a cake with the perfect texture. Additionally, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting; this promotes better incorporation and a smoother batter.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Gently folding in the hazelnuts at the end ensures that they remain intact, adding a delightful crunch to each slice. Lastly, allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting is crucial; this prevents the frosting from melting and helps maintain its beautiful appearance.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup hazelnut spread

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and hazelnut spread until the frosting is creamy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional chopped hazelnuts.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once you've baked and frosted your Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake, it's important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.

For serving, slice the cake with a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. You can serve it as is, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added indulgence. Fresh berries on the side can also complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information

While Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is undoubtedly a treat, being mindful of portion sizes can help you enjoy it without overindulging. Each slice provides a delightful combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying dessert. The presence of hazelnuts adds healthy fats and a source of protein, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

For those watching their sugar intake, consider experimenting with sugar substitutes or reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe. This way, you can still enjoy the rich flavors of the cake while catering to dietary preferences.

Baking Variations

One of the great aspects of the Capricorn Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is its adaptability. For a twist, try incorporating different types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to create your own signature cake. Additionally, you could infuse the frosting with flavors like espresso or almond extract for a unique spin.

If you're looking to make a gluten-free version of this cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow you to cater to various dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.