There’s nothing quite like the moment you slice into a beautifully layered chocolate cake, and the aroma of rich, fudgy chocolate envelops your kitchen. This Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake is my go-to for gatherings where I want to impress without the fuss. With each bite, the harmony of velvety chocolate cake, luscious Nutella ganache, and creamy buttercream brings an exquisite indulgence that resonates with anyone who loves dessert.

I discovered this recipe during a cozy afternoon search for something sweet to lift my spirits, and believe me, it was a game changer. The blend of cocoa and hazelnut creates a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting—perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or even just a self-care treat after a long week. It’s easy enough to whip up after a hectic day, yet it has that “wow” factor you’d expect from your favorite bakery. So, let’s dive in and create a slice of heaven that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is this Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake a Must-Try?

Decadent layers of fudgy chocolate cake enveloped in rich Nutella ganache make this dessert utterly irresistible. Easy to prepare, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Crowd-pleasing and perfect for all ages, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Elegant flavor profiles of chocolate and hazelnut come together, creating a delightful combination that feels both luxurious and comforting. For those who want to explore more variations, consider trying different flavor extracts to elevate your cake even further!

Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Cocoa Powder – Essential for chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa enhances richness.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder – Leavening agents for volume and texture; ensure freshness for the best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness; no substitutes needed.
Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and richness; melted butter can be used for a different flavor.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and provides lift; flax eggs serve as a vegan alternative.
Sour Cream – Enhances fudginess with moisture and tang; Greek yogurt is a good substitute.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; can be omitted if you’re in a pinch.
Buttermilk – Contributes to moisture; you can DIY by combining milk and vinegar.
Hot Coffee/Water – Intensifies chocolate flavor; or swap with milk for a milder taste.

For the Nutella Ganache

Nutella – The star ingredient for flavor; essential for both ganache and buttercream.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Ensures the ganache is smooth; use full-fat for the best texture.

For the Nutella Buttercream

Unsalted Butter – Creates the base for the buttercream; use dairy-free spread to make it vegan.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the buttercream; avoid substitutes for the best consistency.
Whole Milk – Adjusts the buttercream consistency; any plant-based milk works for dairy-free.

For the Decoration

Chopped Hazelnuts (optional) – Adds crunch as garnish; feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or candies.

How to Make Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and prepare your cake pans with non-stick cooking spray and parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until fully blended; this creates a solid base for your cake.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, pure vanilla extract, and buttermilk; mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix for a tender cake texture.
Incorporate Coffee: Slowly add the hot coffee into the batter, stirring until smooth; this rich addition will enhance your chocolate flavor wonderfully.
Bake Cake: Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for 32-36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Layers: Let the cake layers cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting; this helps prevent melting.
Make Nutella Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until simmering. Pour it over the Nutella in a bowl and whisk until fully smooth; be sure to let it cool down a bit before using.
Prepare Nutella Buttercream: In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, then beat in the Nutella, vanilla, and a splash of whole milk until silky smooth.
Assemble Cake: Level the cooled cake layers, then place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a buttercream dam around the edge, fill with Nutella ganache, and repeat with remaining layers.
Frost and Drip: Apply a thin crumb coat of buttercream over the entire cake, chill for about 30 minutes, then finish with a generous layer of buttercream and a luxurious drizzle of Nutella ganache on top. Decorate with chopped hazelnuts if you’d like!

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its moistness; keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent drying.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices or whole cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: For a warm treat, pop individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; this revives the fudgy goodness of the Nutella cake beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These decadent Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The Nutella ganache and buttercream can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, allow the ganache and buttercream to come to room temperature, then whip the buttercream for extra fluffiness. This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness of your cake without the last-minute rush, making it just as indulgent as if you made it the same day!

Expert Tips for Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake

Blend Well: Ensure all wet ingredients are fully combined before adding to the dry mix; this avoids lumps and ensures a smooth batter for your fudgy chocolate Nutella cake.
Check Freshness: Always check the expiration dates on baking soda and baking powder. Using fresh, active leavening agents is crucial for the perfect rise.
Cooling Time: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the buttercream from melting and maintains the cake’s beautiful structure.
Ganache Consistency: If the Nutella ganache is too thick, gently reheat it for a smoother pourable texture. Whisk thoroughly until it becomes glossy and silky.
Frosting Technique: Utilize a turntable for easier frosting and decorating. It helps achieve an even layer of buttercream without straining your wrist!
Taste Test: Bookmark a slice of cake for yourself before serving! Enjoying the rich flavors will remind you why you created this delightful fudgy chocolate Nutella cake in the first place.

What to Serve with Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake?

Create an unforgettable dessert experience by pairing this indulgent treat with complementary flavors and textures.

Whipped Cream: A light and airy dollop enhances the richness, balancing the cake’s fudgy density with a creamy touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm chocolate and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that everyone loves.
Espresso or Coffee: A steaming cup of espresso intensifies the chocolate flavors, adding a sophisticated twist to your dessert.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing burst that cuts through the sweetness of the cake.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: For the ultimate indulgence, serve a side of warm chocolate ganache for extra richness—perfect for chocolate lovers.
Hazelnut Praline: A crunchy, sweet addition that echoes the cake’s flavors, adding an exciting texture and a nutty twist.
Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical flair, this light and airy topping brings a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

With these pairings, you’re set to transform your Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake into a memorable feast that will leave your guests raving!

Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this decadent cake and make it uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free cake.
Nut-Free: Swap Nutella with a chocolate spread made from sunflower seeds, offering a similar taste without the nuts.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and a dairy-free chocolate spread for a cruelty-free dessert.
Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining sweetness.
Chocolate Chunk Boost: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks before pouring the batter into the pans for extra chocolatey goodness.

Incorporating these variations lets you cater to dietary needs, preferences, or simply your mood! Don’t hesitate to play around with flavors and ingredients to create a personalized experience that excites your taste buds!

Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the cake?
You can use all-purpose flour for this Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free all-purpose flour can work as a substitute, but make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

How should I store the Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist. If you want to preserve it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Fudgy Chocolate Nutella Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze both slices and the whole cake by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture before serving.

What should I do if the Nutella ganache is too thick?
If your Nutella ganache turns out too thick, no worries! Simply reheat it gently in a saucepan or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften it. Then, whisk it thoroughly until it’s silky smooth and has a pourable consistency to drizzle over your cake beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re making the cake for someone with allergies, opt for dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk for the buttercream. For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs, using 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, especially in Nutella, which contains hazelnuts and dairy.