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Gooey Chocolate Hazelnut Caramel Layer Cake

A decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate layers, creamy caramel, and crunchy hazelnuts, perfect for any celebration.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Caramel, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe, Hazelnut, Layer Cake
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder High-quality cocoa recommended
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk Fresh and creamy
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot coffee Brewed to perfection

Filling and Ganache

  • 1 cup hazelnuts Toasted and chopped
  • 1 cup caramel sauce Smooth and rich
  • 1 cup heavy cream For the ganache
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips Melty goodness
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter For gloss in ganache

Decoration

  • whole hazelnuts For decoration
  • as needed chocolate shavings For decoration
  • as needed caramel drizzle For an eye-catching finish

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
  • Carefully stir in the hot coffee and divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Filling and Assembly

  • Mix the chopped hazelnuts with caramel sauce for the hazelnut caramel filling.
  • Assemble the cake by spreading hazelnut caramel filling between the layers.

Ganache

  • In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium until simmering. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute before stirring to a smooth consistency.
  • Incorporate butter into ganache for added richness and shine.
  • Pour ganache over the assembled cake and let it drape down the sides.

Decoration

  • Decorate the cake with whole hazelnuts, chocolate shavings, and caramel drizzle.
  • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality cocoa and chocolate for best flavor. Optional: Add espresso powder for richness or fresh fruits for a unique twist. Store covered in the fridge for up to a week. Freeze slices for up to three months.