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If you’re a chocolate lover searching for the ultimate dessert, look no further. This Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake with Ganache Drip is a showstopper that combines three moist chocolate cake layers, a silky hazelnut buttercream filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache that cascades beautifully down the sides. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply want to indulge in something decadent, this cake guarantees to impress anyone who takes a bite.

The magic of this cake lies in the harmony of flavors. The rich chocolate cake base provides the perfect backdrop for the nutty, creamy buttercream, while the ganache adds a touch of luxury. Garnished with roasted hazelnuts and truffles, this dessert is as elegant as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake (3 Layers)

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400 g) sugar
• ¾ cup (90 g) cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) hot coffee or hot water

Hazelnut Buttercream

• 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (120 g) Nutella or hazelnut spread
• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache Drip

• 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for shine)

Garnish

• Roasted hazelnuts
• Chocolate truffles or Ferrero Rocher
• White chocolate truffles
• Edible gold spray or gold topper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps achieve a soft, even crumb.

Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth. Slowly stir in the hot coffee or hot water; the batter will become thin, which is exactly what makes this cake moist.

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

2️⃣ Make the Hazelnut Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until creamy and fluffy. Add Nutella and vanilla extract, then continue beating until smooth.

Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with a tablespoon of cream. This keeps the frosting silky while maintaining structure. The final texture should be light, airy, and spreadable.

3️⃣ Prepare the Ganache Drip

Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream until steaming but not boiling, then pour it over the chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes before stirring until glossy and smooth. Add butter for extra shine if desired.

Allow the ganache to cool slightly so it thickens but remains pourable for the drip effect.

4️⃣ Assemble the Cake

Place the first cooled cake layer on a serving stand. Spread a generous amount of hazelnut buttercream and sprinkle with roasted hazelnuts. Repeat with the second and third layers.

Cover the cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it with a spatula. Chill the cake for 20 minutes before decorating—this helps the ganache set properly.

5️⃣ Decorate with Ganache and Toppings

Using a spoon or piping bag, drip the cooled ganache along the edges of the cake, letting it cascade naturally. Spread a thin layer across the top as well.

Decorate with chocolate truffles, Ferrero Rocher, white chocolate accents, and roasted hazelnuts. For a show-stopping finish, dust with edible gold spray or add a golden cake topper.

Tips & Tricks

• Chill the cake layers before frosting for stability.
• Use roasted hazelnuts for a crunch that balances the creaminess.
• For a dramatic drip, warm the ganache slightly before pouring.
• This cake pairs beautifully with espresso, coffee, or dessert wine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake isn’t just another chocolate dessert; it’s a centerpiece. The combination of chocolate, hazelnuts, and silky buttercream creates a flavor profile that feels indulgent but not overwhelming. Each bite delivers moist cake, creamy filling, and the perfect amount of crunch.

It’s versatile too. While it looks elegant enough for weddings or parties, it’s simple enough for a weekend baking project. Once you master this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.