Ah, the magic of baking during the holidays! There’s just something so special about filling your kitchen with the warm, nutty aroma of freshly baked goods. My favorite part? It’s definitely the Christmas Hazelnut Cake! This delightful cake is not just a treat; it’s a centerpiece of festive cheer at our family gatherings. I can still picture my grandmother in her apron, mixing batter with a twinkle in her eye, as we all eagerly awaited that first slice. It’s become a cherished tradition, and every bite of this rich, hazelnut-filled cake brings back those joyful memories of laughter, love, and togetherness around the holiday table. Trust me, it’s the perfect dessert to share with loved ones!
Ingredients for Christmas Hazelnut Cake
Gather these simple yet delightful ingredients to whip up your Christmas Hazelnut Cake. Each one plays a role in creating that rich, nutty flavor that makes this cake so special!
- 2 cups ground hazelnuts – for that warm, nutty flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – this will give the cake its lovely structure.
- 1 cup sugar – because we all need a little sweetness in our lives!
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – it adds richness and helps create a moist texture.
- 4 large eggs – they’re essential for binding everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a splash of this makes everything taste more festive.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – this helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – just a pinch enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk – it brings everything together and keeps the cake moist.
How to Prepare Christmas Hazelnut Cake
Making your Christmas Hazelnut Cake is a breeze! Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a festive masterpiece in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because a hot oven helps the cake rise perfectly!
- Prepare your cake pan: Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This will ensure your cake comes out easily once it’s baked.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air, making your cake fluffy!
- Mix in the vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely, festive flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the ground hazelnuts, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This is where all the magic happens!
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix!
- Pour the batter: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake your cake: Pop it into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool it down: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Hazelnut Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! Here’s why I’m absolutely obsessed with it:
- Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll whip up a stunning cake that looks and tastes like a holiday masterpiece.
- Rich flavor: The combination of ground hazelnuts and fluffy cake creates a delightful, nutty richness that’s simply irresistible.
- Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive party, this cake is sure to be the star of the show.
- Great for gifting: Wrap it up beautifully, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade gift that anyone would love to receive.
- Versatile toppings: Dress it up with chocolate ganache or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas Hazelnut Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips that I swear by:
- Quality ingredients matter: Use fresh, high-quality hazelnuts for a richer flavor. If you can, toast them lightly to enhance their nuttiness before grinding.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend more easily and creates a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!
- Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean, but a few moist crumbs are okay!
- Cool properly: Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack. This helps it set and makes for easier removal without breaking.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and holiday spirit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your Christmas Hazelnut Cake, you’ll want to make sure it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Here’s how to store it properly:
- Airtight container: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for about 2 months.
- Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cake, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. You can also let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours if you’re in a hurry!
- Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or it might become too dry!
Following these tips will ensure that every slice of your Christmas Hazelnut Cake remains just as delightful as the first bite. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this Christmas Hazelnut Cake! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredient usage, so they may vary slightly depending on the brands you choose and any modifications you make. Here’s a quick breakdown per slice:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 6g
This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also packs in some enjoyable nutrients, thanks to the hazelnuts! So go ahead, indulge a little. You deserve it!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the Christmas Hazelnut Cake? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers:
Can I use whole hazelnuts instead of ground hazelnuts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to grind them finely before adding them to the batter. It’s a great way to ensure freshness and flavor, but remember to measure them after grinding for accurate amounts!
What can I substitute for butter?
If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well! Just melt it first and let it cool slightly before mixing it in. You can also use a vegan butter substitute if you prefer.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend one that has a good balance of starches to help with texture. It’s a delicious way to accommodate gluten-free friends and family!
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It actually tastes even better after resting for a day as the flavors meld!
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra festive touch. It’s also delightful with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a simple yet elegant presentation!
Christmas Hazelnut Cake: 5 Reasons to Savor Every Bite
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive cake made with hazelnuts, perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ground hazelnuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, mix the ground hazelnuts, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container.
- Can be topped with chocolate ganache or whipped cream.
- Use fresh hazelnuts for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Christmas Hazelnut Cake, holiday dessert, festive cake