Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey with this rich and indulgent Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake. This recipe combines the deep, bittersweet notes of chocolate with the nutty essence of hazelnuts, creating a decadent dessert that is sure to please anyone’s palate. The creamy, almost cloud-like cheesecake layer enveloped between two luscious chocolate cake layers will captivate your senses while the delightful aromas waft through your kitchen. With each slice, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of textures, from the tenderness of the cake to the smooth richness of the cheesecake, leaving you feeling blissful and satisfied. In this step-by-step recipe, you’ll learn how to create this showstopper that’s perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings!

History / Fun Fact

The fusion of chocolate and hazelnut has a charming history that dates back to Italy. Nutella, the beloved hazelnut spread, was created during the post-war era when cocoa was scarce. Bakers began mixing what little cocoa they had with hazelnuts to create a delicious paste, ultimately leading to the popular treat we know today. Cheesecake, on the other hand, has origins that can be traced back to Ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic Games. Over time, variations of cheesecake emerged across different cultures, each adding unique ingredients. This Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake beautifully marries these two distinct culinary traditions, resulting in a dessert that embodies rich history and modern indulgence.

Ingredients

The magic of this Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake begins with a medley of delightful ingredients that elevate its flavor and texture. You’ll need 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, which acts as the foundation for the cake. The soul of the dessert is 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar that sweetens every bite, while ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder introduces a rich chocolate flavor, bringing depth to the cake layers. A blend of 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and 1 ½ teaspoons of baking soda ensures the cakes rise perfectly, creating an airy texture.

Next, we have 1 teaspoon of salt that enhances all the flavors, along with 2 large eggs that add moisture and structure. The wet ingredients include 1 cup of whole milk, which contributes to the cake’s tenderness, and ½ cup of vegetable oil for moisture and a soft crumb. To enhance the flavor profile, incorporate 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. The secret to a moist and decadent cake lies in 1 cup of boiling water, which transforms the batter into a silky, dreamy liquid.

For the creamy, rich cheesecake layer, you’ll require 16 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and ½ cup of hazelnut spread (like Nutella) for that luscious flavor. Adding 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract creates a wonderful, smooth filling. The crowning glory of the cake is the frosting, made with 1 cup of heavy cream mixed with ½ cup of powdered sugar, and again, ½ cup of hazelnut spread, resulting in a light yet flavorful topping. Finally, for the crunch, garnish with chopped hazelnuts that provide a delightful texture contrast.

Cooking Time & Tips For Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake

When it comes to preparing this Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake, understanding the difference between quick and slow preparation is crucial. Quick preparation involves efficiently combining ingredients and baking with urgency, which works well for novice bakers who want to achieve a satisfying result without spending hours in the kitchen. On the other hand, slow preparation allows for meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every layer is perfect, and flavors have time to meld.

For practical tips, always use room-temperature eggs and cream cheese for smoother mixtures. Greasing your cake pans thoroughly ensures easy removal, preventing any heartache when it’s time to unveil your masterpiece. When baking the cheesecake layer, avoid overmixing to preserve its velvety texture. Lastly, make sure to let your cakes cool completely before assembling; this helps prevent melting and mixing of the layers, preserving that gorgeous presentation.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), inviting warmth into your kitchen as you prepare to create a delightful masterpiece. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring a non-stick surface that will allow your cakes to glide out effortlessly later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Take a moment to appreciate the aromatic blend of dry ingredients—a true symphony of chocolatey goodness. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and well-blended. The batter should gleam with rich chocolate warmth, almost inviting you to dive right in.

Now, slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined. This step is key; the hot water will enhance the cocoa’s flavor while ensuring a moist, tender cake. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and slide them into the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will tantalize your senses—chocolate heaven is just within reach!

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. While the cakes cool, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the cheesecake layer.

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth; the texture should be creamy and cloud-like. Add powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Pour this luscious cheesecake mixture into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll want it to be set but slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures it will be creamy once cooled. After baking, let the cheesecake cool completely before gently removing it from the pan.

To create the frosting, in a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. The whipped cream should be light and airy, a perfect contrast to the denser cake layers. Gently fold in hazelnut spread until smooth, combining these flavors without deflating the mixture.

Now, it’s time to assemble your cake! Place one chocolate cake layer on a beautiful serving plate, its warm, inviting aroma wrapping around you like a comforting hug. Top with the cheesecake layer, allowing its creamy richness to entice your senses. Add the second chocolate cake layer on top, hoisting it up with care. Frost the entire cake with the hazelnut whipped cream, letting it cascade down the sides—charmingly imperfect is the goal!

Finally, garnish generously with chopped hazelnuts, adding a lovely crunch that invites your guests to dive in.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

The Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake is perfect for a variety of occasions! Imagine serving it at birthday parties, holidays, or even intimate gatherings with friends and family. Its rich and inviting appearance is sure to be a conversation starter and a center-of-attention dessert. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee or a delightful cup of tea to balance the dessert’s richness. This cake also makes for an impressive potluck dish, where layers of flavor lead to raving reviews.

Common Mistakes For Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake

While creating this indulgent cake, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that may compromise your efforts. One mistake is overbaking the chocolate cake layers; check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—remember, a few moist crumbs are ideal! For the cheesecake layer, overmixing can result in a grainy texture, so mix just until combined. If the cheesecake cools too quickly, it may crack, so allow it to cool gradually. Finally, when frosting the cake, make sure to use chilled tools and ingredients to achieve that desired fluffy texture!

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

For those seeking healthier alternatives, consider using whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour for added nutrients and fiber. Substituting unsweetened applesauce for vegetable oil can reduce the fat content while maintaining moisture. Similarly, you can use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to lower refined sugar consumption. If you wish to explore variations, consider incorporating flavors such as orange zest for a refreshing citrus kick or a hint of espresso for an invigorating chocolate spin!

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Both the chocolate cake layers and cheesecake can be prepared a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to five days. It can also be frozen for up to three months—just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving!
Can I substitute with dairy-free options?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream to create the frosting, and replace whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk for a delicious dairy-free variation.
What other toppings can I use?
You can drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosting or add seasonal fruits for a pop of color. Raspberries or strawberries complement the flavors well!
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake will be set on the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Can I use chocolate hazelnut spread that’s not Nutella?
Of course! As long as the spread is halal, feel free to explore different brands for varied flavors!

Conclusion

Now that you have all the delicious details to create your very own Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Cake, it’s time to dive into the kitchen and experience the joy of baking this scrumptious treat. With its rich flavors and luscious textures, this dessert will surely become a favorite among your family and friends. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to delight your taste buds with this stunning creation—try it today!