The Ultimate Vegan & Gluten-Free Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
There are certain flavors that feel like a warm hug—chocolate and hazelnut are one of those perfect pairs. This recipe isn’t just about baking; it’s about creating a little moment of joy.
The first time I made this cake, it was on a rainy afternoon when my best friend came over unexpectedly. We wanted something decadent yet simple, something that would make us feel cozy while we chatted about life. As we mixed the ingredients together, laughter filled the kitchen, and the smell of roasted hazelnuts made everything feel extra special. Now, this has become my go-to comfort bake, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Vegan & Gluten-Free – Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier indulgence.
- Rich & Fudgy – The combination of hazelnut and dark chocolate is luxurious and intense.
- Easy to Make – No fancy equipment needed, just a bowl and a whisk!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 65g hazelnut flour (or finely ground hazelnuts)
- 15g crushed hazelnuts
- 110g gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 30g sugar
- 10g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100g unsweetened applesauce
- 100ml hazelnut milk
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
For the Topping:
- Dark chocolate (70% or more), to taste
- Toasted hazelnut butter, to taste
Let’s Bake!
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tin with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the applesauce and hazelnut milk, stirring until you get a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin.
- Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts over the top and drizzle with hazelnut butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cake is set but still slightly soft in the center.
- Let it cool slightly before drizzling with melted dark chocolate.
- Enjoy warm or cold, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
Post-Baking Joy
There’s something magical about the first bite of this cake. The richness of the dark chocolate melts on your tongue, balanced by the subtle nutty flavor of the hazelnuts. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that rainy afternoon with my best friend—proof that the best recipes aren’t just about food, but about the memories they create.
Pro Tips: ✔️ For an extra fudgy texture, add 1 tbsp melted coconut oil to the batter. ✔️ Swap applesauce for mashed banana for a different sweetness profile. ✔️ Lightly toast your hazelnuts before using them for an even deeper flavor.
So, what’s stopping you? Bake this cake, create your own memories, and enjoy every bite! 💕
Chocolate Hazelnut Dessert Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 65 g hazelnut flour (or finely ground hazelnuts)
- 15 g crushed hazelnuts
- 110 g gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 30 g sugar
- 10 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100 g unsweetened applesauce
- 100 ml hazelnut milk
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
For the Topping
- Dark chocolate (70% or more), to taste
- Toasted hazelnut butter, to taste
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tin with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the applesauce and hazelnut milk, stirring until you get a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin.
- Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts over the top and drizzle with hazelnut butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cake is set but still slightly soft in the center.
- Let it cool slightly before drizzling with melted dark chocolate.
- Enjoy warm or cold, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
Notes
- For an extra fudgy texture, add 1 tbsp melted coconut oil to the batter.
- Swap applesauce for mashed banana for a different sweetness profile.
- Lightly toast your hazelnuts before using them for an even deeper flavor.
Leave a Reply