Hazelnut Cake

Recipe Overview 🍽️

History of the Recipe ✍️

Originating from hazelnut-growing regions, this cake is inspired by traditional recipes from Central Europe and Italy, where hazelnuts are commonly used in baking. The hazelnut imparts a rich, roasted flavor to the cake, offering a delicious alternative to classic cakes. Hazelnuts are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health and maintaining healthy skin. Hazelnut Cake, incorporating these nutritious nuts, offers a delightful way to enjoy their health benefits while indulging in a delicious treat. The cake’s rich, nutty flavor enhances the overall dessert experience, making it a favorite for those who appreciate both taste and nutrition.

Ingredients 🛒

listed in the order of use in the procedure:

• 200 g hazelnut flour
• 150 g flour
• 150 g sugar
• 100 g melted butter
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 packet baking powder (about 6 g)
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Whole hazelnuts for decoration (optional)

Steps (How to Make ) 🥣

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes foamy.
3. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, then mix well.
4. Fold in the hazelnut flour, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the surface.
6. Optionally, decorate with whole hazelnuts.
7. Bake for 35 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool before removing from the pan and serving.

Chef Tips 👨‍🍳

• To enhance the flavor, lightly toast the hazelnut flour before incorporating it.
• Substitute butter with hazelnut oil for an even stronger hazelnut flavor.

Possible Variations 🎭

• Hazelnut and Chocolate Cake: Add 100 g dark chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
• Hazelnut and Coffee Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee for a subtle bitter note.

Bake Time 🔥

Baking the Hazelnut Cake takes about 35 to 40 minutes at 180°C (350°F). To ensure it’s perfectly baked, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. This cake is delightful with its nutty flavor and moist texture, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Allow the cake to cool before serving to enhance its flavor and structure. Enjoy your homemade Hazelnut Cake!

How to Store 🥡

Food and Drink Pairings 🥂

This cake pairs beautifully with a strong coffee or a hot chocolate.

Presentation Suggestion 🍽️

Dust the cake with powdered sugar and garnish with whole hazelnuts or chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation.

Why It’s Healthy 💚

Hazelnuts are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health and maintaining healthy skin. These nutrients make hazelnuts a great addition to any diet. Hazelnut Cake, incorporating these nutritious nuts, offers a delightful way to enjoy their health benefits while indulging in a delicious treat. The cake’s rich, nutty flavor enhances the overall dessert experience, making it a favorite for those who appreciate both taste and nutrition.