Delicious Nutella Layer Cake for My Birthday Celebration

Have you ever dreamed of biting into a slice of chocolate hazelnut heaven? This Nutella Layer Cake is exactly that dream come true. After years of testing and tweaking, I’ve perfected this decadent celebration cake that combines rich chocolate layers with smooth Nutella frosting and a touch of mascarpone for the ultimate birthday treat. The secret? A splash of espresso that enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. Trust me, this will become your new go-to celebration cake!

I’ve spent years perfecting this homemade Nutella Layer Cake, testing countless variations until I found the magical combination. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday (like I am!) or simply want to indulge in something special, this cake delivers restaurant-quality results with straightforward techniques anyone can master.

Recipe Overview

⏱️ Total time: 60 minutes
🔪 Prep time: 30 minutes
🍳 Cook time: 30 minutes
👥 Servings: 12 people
🔥 Difficulty: Medium
💰 Cost: Medium

What Our Readers Are Saying

“I’ve made this Nutella Layer Cake three times now and it’s always a hit! My family requests it for every birthday. Louisa’s instructions are so clear and it really does take just 60 minutes from start to finish.”
— Maria from Chicago

“The mascarpone in the filling is genius! It balances the sweetness of the Nutella perfectly. This cake made me look like a professional baker at my daughter’s birthday party!”
— Thomas from Seattle

Contents

• Why you’ll love this recipe
• Ingredients you’ll need
• Step-by-step instructions
• Pro tips for best results
• Best ways to serve
• Nutritional information
• Storage and leftovers
• Frequently asked questions

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Layer Cake

✅ Quick and easy – The best way to make Nutella Layer Cake at home in just 60 minutes! Perfect for celebrations with minimal stress!

✅ Family-approved – Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this quick and easy Nutella Layer Cake recipe!

✅ Foolproof results – Follow my simple method for perfect Nutella Layer Cake every single time!

✅ Versatile recipe – Easily customizable with ingredients you already have in your pantry!

✅ Budget-friendly – Save money with this homemade Nutella Layer Cake that tastes better than bakery quality!

Ready in just 60 minutes! This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With my detailed tips below, you’ll get professional results from your very first try.

Ingredients for Nutella Layer Cake

For the chocolate cake layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup ground hazelnuts (or almond flour as substitute)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/4 cup strong espresso, cooled
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Nutella mascarpone filling:

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup Nutella
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the chocolate hazelnut frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup Nutella
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts for decoration (optional)

Must-have ingredients for Nutella Layer Cake:

Quality ingredients: For the best Nutella Layer Cake, always use fresh hazelnuts for grinding, as they significantly affect the final flavor. However, if you can’t find them, store-bought ground hazelnuts or almond flour will still produce good results.

Best flavor enhancers for Nutella Layer Cake: The perfect blend includes espresso, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for that authentic depth of flavor that makes this cake extraordinary.

Dietary alternatives: For gluten-free Nutella Layer Cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Make a dairy-free version by replacing mascarpone with dairy-free cream cheese and butter with plant-based butter.

How to Make Nutella Layer Cake – Step by Step

Preparing the Cake Layers

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 2
In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined and slightly fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the espresso, milk, and vanilla extract – mix until smooth!

🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Adding cooled espresso enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee – it’s an incredible flavor boost that will make everyone ask for your secret!

Step 2: Mixing the wet ingredients until smooth before adding dry ingredients

Mixing and Baking

Step 3
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix – stop when no flour streaks remain!

Step 4
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Tap each pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs!

🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Don’t overbake! The cakes should still be moist in the center when you remove them from the oven, as they’ll continue cooking slightly as they cool.

Step 5
Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely before assembling and frosting. For best results, you can wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes before assembling – this makes them easier to frost!

Preparing the Fillings and Frosting

Step 6
For the Nutella mascarpone filling, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add Nutella, powdered sugar, vanilla extract and salt, then mix until well combined and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 7
For the chocolate hazelnut frosting, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add the Nutella and continue beating until well incorporated. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream. Beat in vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Cake

Step 8
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the Nutella mascarpone filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top.

Step 9
Cover the entire cake with the chocolate hazelnut frosting using an offset spatula. Create decorative swirls if desired. Optional: Press chopped hazelnuts around the sides of the cake for decoration and added texture.

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Pro Tips for the Best Nutella Layer Cake

🌡️ Perfect temperature – The secret to amazing Nutella Layer Cake is room temperature ingredients. Too cold and they won’t blend properly; too warm and the frosting may become too soft to work with.

⏱️ Timing is everything – Can I prepare components ahead? Absolutely! Make the cake layers up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate well-wrapped. Just add an extra 15 minutes to assemble and frost when you’re ready.

👁️ Visual doneness test – What makes Nutella Layer Cake extra special? Look for a slight dome that springs back when touched – that’s when you know it’s perfectly done!

🔪 Quick flavor variations – Transform this recipe by adding: 1) 1/4 cup Frangelico liqueur to the cake batter, 2) fresh raspberries between the layers, or 3) a thin layer of hazelnut brittle on top for an exciting twist!

🥣 Quality ingredients hack – Can’t find mascarpone? Use 1 cup cream cheese with 2 tablespoons heavy cream to recreate that signature creamy texture profile.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Mistake: Using cold ingredients for the filling and frosting – Solution: Instead, bring everything to room temperature for smooth, lump-free results
• Mistake: Frosting the cake while it’s still warm – Solution: Rather, chill the layers for at least 30 minutes before frosting to prevent melting
• Mistake: Overmixing the cake batter – Solution: To prevent this, stop mixing as soon as ingredients are incorporated to keep the cake tender

Best Ways to Serve Nutella Layer Cake

The best way to serve Nutella Layer Cake is slightly chilled but not cold from the refrigerator, with a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts on top. This showcases the incredible flavors and textures at their peak!

Perfect pairings:

• Side dishes: Serve alongside fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream for a complete dessert experience
• Drinks: This pairs beautifully with coffee, hazelnut liqueur, or a glass of cold milk to complement the flavors
• Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a simple weekend treat when you want to impress

Serving suggestion: Nutella Layer Cake with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a complete dessert

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	485 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbohydrates	62 g
Fat	25 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	42 g
Sodium	220 mg

Approximate values per serving. Consult with a nutritionist for personalized information.

Dietary adaptations

• Lower-sugar version available! Replace half the Nutella with unsweetened hazelnut butter and reduce sugar to 1 1/2 cups, bringing the total down to just 35 g of sugar per serving.
• High-protein option: Add 1/4 cup unflavored protein powder to the cake batter to boost protein content to 8 g per serving – perfect for fitness enthusiasts!
• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for equally delicious results!

Storage & Leftovers

🧊 How to store Nutella Layer Cake leftovers?

After preparing this dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before doing so, make sure it has cooled completely to prevent condensation that could make it soggy.

❄️ Can I freeze Nutella Layer Cake?

Yes! This recipe freezes beautifully. First, divide into individual portions for easier thawing. Then, wrap well in plastic wrap and subsequently in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Finally, freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.

♨️ What’s the best way to reheat Nutella Layer Cake?

For that fresh-made taste, allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This method preserves the moisture and texture. However, avoid microwaving because it can make your Nutella Layer Cake dry out and the frosting melt too quickly.

4 FAQs About Nutella Layer Cake

Can I freeze Nutella Layer Cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze Nutella Layer Cake for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Just make sure it’s completely cooled first. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for mascarpone in this recipe?

Don’t worry if you’re missing mascarpone! You can easily use cream cheese or a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream instead. Just mix 8 oz cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream to maintain the perfect creamy texture balance in your Nutella Layer Cake.

Can I make Nutella Layer Cake ahead of time for a party?

Yes, this is a great make-ahead dish! Prepare everything up to 2 days before, then refrigerate the assembled cake. When your guests arrive, just take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. This actually allows the flavors to develop even more for an extra-tasty Nutella Layer Cake!

Is this Nutella Layer Cake kid-friendly?

Kids absolutely love this Nutella Layer Cake! If you’re cooking for little ones with more sensitive palates, simply reduce the espresso to 2 tablespoons or replace it with chocolate milk and they’ll still clean their plates. My 8-year-old nephew asks for this cake every time he visits!

Have You Tried This Recipe?

If you’ve made this Nutella Layer Cake, I’d LOVE to see your creation! Share your photos on Instagram and tag @LouisaJannet with the hashtag #SlamRecipes so I can feature your masterpiece!

Rate This Recipe

★★★★★ from 38 votes

Ready to Make the Best Nutella Layer Cake Ever?

There you have it – all my secrets for making the perfect Nutella Layer Cake that will have everyone asking for your recipe! This cake truly brings together incredible chocolate and hazelnut flavors with creamy mascarpone for a decadent birthday treat that’s worth celebrating.

Don’t forget to let me know in the comments when you try this recipe! What did your family think? Did you add your own special twist? I love seeing how you make this recipe your own!

Until next time, happy baking and enjoy your delicious homemade Nutella Layer Cake! And happy birthday to me – I’ll be enjoying a slice of this cake to celebrate!

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