If you have a serious sweet tooth and a love for all things chocolate and hazelnut, you’re about to discover The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe that will truly become your new favorite dessert. This cake is a heavenly marriage of rich cocoa, creamy Nutella-infused frosting, and those iconic Ferrero Rocher chocolates that add crunch and sophistication. Every bite is a celebration of texture and flavor, perfectly balanced to delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a well-deserved treat, this recipe brings decadent joy to the table effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this cake. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the moist, tender crumb, the luscious frosting, or the irresistible finishing touches that elevate the presentation.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet soft base for our cake layers.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Brings just the right sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate richness and a beautiful dark color.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder and 1 1/2 tsp baking soda: Help the cake rise perfectly and keep it fluffy.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture without heaviness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and makes the batter smooth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Key for a luscious frosting texture.
- 1 cup Nutella: Brings that iconic hazelnut-chocolate goodness straight into the frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold shape.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or more if needed): Makes the frosting creamy and spreadable.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds extra depth to the frosting’s flavor.
- A pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and complements the Nutella perfectly.
- 12-15 Ferrero Rocher chocolates: For filling between layers and magnificent decoration on top.
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional): Adds delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.
How to Make The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when your batter is mixed. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper—this helps the cakes release easily without breaking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and everything mixes evenly, setting the stage for a smooth, tender cake.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
To the dry ingredients, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the batter looks silky smooth and well combined. This step is where the magic starts, turning a collection of simple ingredients into a luscious batter base.
Step 4: Add Sour Cream for Moisture
Stir in the sour cream fully. It might seem like an unexpected addition, but it’s what keeps the crumb so tender and adds a subtle tang that brightens the chocolate flavor.
Step 5: Carefully Incorporate Boiling Water
Gradually pour in the boiling water while mixing gently. Don’t be alarmed if the batter looks thin — this is exactly what it should be. The hot water blooms the cocoa, giving the cake an intense chocolate depth.
Step 6: Divide and Bake
Evenly divide the batter between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops gently. Pop them into the oven to bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating your cakes are perfectly cooked.
Step 7: Cool Before Frosting
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent your frosting from melting and sliding off later on.
How to Serve The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning finish, top your frosted cake with whole Ferrero Rocher chocolates arranged beautifully around the edges or center. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts to add a crunchy contrast that enhances the nutty notes of the cake.
Side Dishes
This rich cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Both bring a cool, creamy contrast that balances the cake’s richness and makes the experience even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into smaller squares and serving as mini dessert bites at parties, or arrange a tiered presentation for celebratory occasions. For a personal touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over each slice just before serving to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any cake left over (which is unlikely!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cake moist, ready for another slice of joy at any time.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and decorating.
Reheating
To slightly warm slices before serving, let them sit at room temperature or microwave gently for 10-15 seconds. This warming enhances the Nutella flavors and makes the cake feel fresh and comforting again.
FAQs
Can I use a different chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! While Nutella offers that signature hazelnut flavor, you can substitute with any chocolate-hazelnut spread or even a plain chocolate ganache for a different twist.
Is it necessary to use boiling water in the batter?
Yes, boiling water helps to intensify the cocoa flavor by “blooming” the cocoa powder, resulting in a richer, more vibrant chocolate taste and a smoother batter.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, so choosing a high-quality blend will yield the best results.
How important is the sour cream in this recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang, keeping the cake tender and flavorful. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if needed, but avoid skipping it as it contributes greatly to the cake’s moist texture.
How many Ferrero Rocher chocolates should I use for filling and decoration?
Using around 12 to 15 chocolates allows for a generous filling layer and a beautiful garnish on top, giving every slice a luscious, nutty surprise.
Final Thoughts
Making The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe is such a joyful experience, combining simple ingredients to create a show-stopping dessert everyone will adore. If you love chocolate and hazelnuts, this cake is a must-try that delivers delicious memories with every bite. Don’t hesitate to dive in and share this sensational cake with your loved ones—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again!
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The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Description
This decadent Ferrero Rocher Cake delivers a rich, moist chocolate sponge paired with a luscious Nutella buttercream frosting. Infused with hints of cocoa and hazelnuts, and studded with whole Ferrero Rocher chocolates, this cake is perfect for celebrations and chocolate lovers alike. The recipe involves baking two layers of chocolate cake, layered and decorated with Nutella frosting and topped with iconic Ferrero Rocher chocolates for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Nutella
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or more if needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Decoration
- 12–15 Ferrero Rocher chocolates (for filling and decoration)
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures a smooth cake batter and even distribution of leavening agents.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the batter. Mix gently until fully incorporated, which will help add moisture and richness to the cake.
- Add Boiling Water: Gradually pour in the boiling water while mixing gently. The batter will become thin, which is normal and will result in a moist cake.
- Divide Batter and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: (Not detailed in original instructions but implied) Beat the softened butter until creamy, then add Nutella and blend until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until fluffy and spreadable. Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Assemble the Cake: (Implied) Place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread an even layer of Nutella frosting, place whole Ferrero Rocher chocolates evenly on top, then cover with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining Nutella buttercream.
- Decorate: Garnish the top of the cake with additional Ferrero Rocher chocolates and sprinkle chopped hazelnuts around the edges for extra crunch and visual appeal.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the cake for at least an hour to let the frosting set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Using boiling water thins the batter and enhances the cocoa flavor, resulting in a moist cake.
- If you want a richer frosting, substitute part of the heavy cream with mascarpone cheese.
- Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- The chopped hazelnuts are optional but add a nice texture contrast.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
