Rich, fudgy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor, this Nutella Chocolate Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. The cake layers are incredibly moist thanks to the creamy Nutella mixed into the batter, while the silky Nutella frosting makes every bite melt in your mouth. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want an impressive homemade chocolate cake.
The best part? This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers but tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Serve it with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or an extra drizzle of warm Nutella for an unforgettable dessert.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 g)
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75 g)
- 2 tsp baking powder (8 g)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda (7 g)
- 1/2 tsp salt (3 g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 1 cup brown sugar (220 g)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water (240 ml)
- 1 cup Nutella (300 g)
For the Nutella Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 g)
- 1 1/2 cups Nutella (450 g)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (360 g)
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (30–45 ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Fresh strawberries
- Extra melted Nutella drizzle
Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2 — Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
Step 3 — Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, milk, oil, vanilla extract, and Nutella. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4 — Add the Hot Coffee
Slowly pour in the hot coffee or hot water while mixing. The batter will look thin — that’s perfectly normal and helps create a super moist cake.
Step 5 — Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6 — Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add Nutella and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in powdered sugar. Add heavy cream as needed until the frosting becomes smooth and fluffy.
Step 7 — Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate with chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts, or melted Nutella drizzle if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Use room-temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter.
- Hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- Chill the cake for 20 minutes before slicing for cleaner layers.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
This Nutella Chocolate Cake is rich, decadent, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. The moist chocolate cake paired with creamy Nutella frosting creates the perfect dessert for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. One slice is never enough!