Chocolate And Hazelnut Praline Cake Recipe
A decadent dessert that incorporates the sweetness of chocolate and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, this chocolate and hazelnut praline cake is a perfect way to end a meal. With a rich, velvety chocolate cake base, topped with an indulgent layer of crunchy hazelnut praline, and finished off with a chocolate glaze, this dessert is sure to make an impression. If you are a fan of chocolate and hazelnuts, this cake is the one for you.
Ingredients
For the cake base:
- 4 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of buttermilk
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup of chopped hazelnuts
- 1/3 cup of packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 2 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup
Instructions
Making the Cake Base
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and butter a 9 inch round cake pan. Place the semi-sweet chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for 1 minute, stirring every 15 seconds until the chocolate is melted. Allow the chocolate and butter to cool for a few minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until well combined. In a third bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and fold in until just combined. Add the buttermilk and mix until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before topping with the hazelnut praline.
Making the Praline Topping
In a small saucepan, combine the chopped hazelnuts, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat and stir continuously until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick and bubbly. Remove the mixture from the heat and immediately pour it onto the top of the cooled cake. Allow the praline topping to cool for a few minutes before topping with the chocolate glaze.
Making the Chocolate Glaze
Place the semi-sweet chocolate, butter, and corn syrup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for 1 minute, stirring every 15 seconds until the chocolate is melted. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring it over the praline topping. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Nutrition
This cake contains an estimated 500 calories per serving. It is high in fat, carbohydrates, and sugar. It is also a source of protein, vitamin A, and iron. This dessert should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate and hazelnut praline cake is best served at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. It also pairs well with a glass of cold milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Tips and Tricks
For a more intense hazelnut flavor, you can use toasted hazelnuts in the praline topping. To toast the hazelnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the nuts are lightly golden. Let the nuts cool before chopping and adding to the praline topping.
You can also use different types of chocolate in the cake base and glaze to change up the flavor. For a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, you can use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can use milk chocolate.
Conclusion
This chocolate and hazelnut praline cake is an indulgent and decadent dessert that is sure to please even the most discerning of sweet tooths. With its rich chocolate cake base, crunchy hazelnut praline topping, and velvety chocolate glaze, this cake is a perfect way to end a meal. Whether you are entertaining or just looking for a special treat, this cake is sure to be a hit.
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