If you’re a chocolate and hazelnut lover searching for a show-stopping dessert, you’ve just stumbled upon The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe. This cake beautifully combines moist, tender chocolate layers with a luscious Nutella frosting and the unforgettable crunch of Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of smooth, creamy, and crunchy textures, making it an absolute delight to share with loved ones or to treat yourself on a special occasion. Prepare to fall head over heels for this irresistible cake that captures the essence of the beloved Ferrero Rocher in a stunning dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to baking success. Each component of this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and richness you expect from The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe. From the cocoa’s deep chocolate notes to the creamy, dreamy Nutella frosting, every ingredient is simple, yet essential.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and crumb for your cake layers.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers a rich chocolate flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with baking powder to create that tender crumb.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps the batter come together.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates all the rich flavors.
- 1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and smoothes out the batter.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and moist texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for that healthy dollop of buttery goodness in the frosting.
- 1 cup Nutella: The star of the frosting, adding irresistible hazelnut and chocolate notes.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or more if needed): Creates the perfect frosting consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances richness in the frosting.
- A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting.
- 12-15 Ferrero Rocher chocolates: For filling, decoration, and that unforgettable crunch.
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional): Adds extra texture and nuttiness on top.
How to Make The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper to ensure your cake layers come out perfectly smooth and easy to remove. Sifting together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—ensures a light, even batter without lumps.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Whisk the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients using a medium speed. This step is all about building a smooth, velvety batter that will bake up beautifully soft. Then stir in the sour cream, which adds a slight tang and keeps the cake moist.
Step 3: Add Boiling Water
Pour the boiling water in gradually, mixing gently. Don’t be alarmed if the batter looks very thin at this point — that’s exactly what it should be. The hot water blooms the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor and creating a luscious base.
Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Nutella Frosting
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the Nutella until fully combined, then gradually add the powdered sugar half a cup at a time for a smooth texture. Mix in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, adjusting the cream quantity until your frosting is perfectly spreadable and delightfully decadent.
Step 6: Assemble and Decorate
Once the cake layers are completely cool, level them by trimming the tops if necessary. Place the first cake layer on your chosen platter, generously spread Nutella frosting on top, and sprinkle chopped Ferrero Rocher pieces over it for a delightful surprise. Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Finish by decorating with whole Ferrero Rocher chocolates and, if you like, a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for that added crunch.
How to Serve The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentation by topping the cake with whole Ferrero Rocher chocolates arranged thoughtfully. A light sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts adds a lovely rustic texture and a visual pop that invites guests to dig in immediately.
Side Dishes
This cake is decadently rich, so pair it with light accompaniments like fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream also works wonders to balance the intense chocolate and hazelnut flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving slices on elegant plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. You can also place the cake on a rotating cake stand to highlight its decorated top, making it the star centerpiece at any celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring slices to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy the silky frosting and tender cake layers.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Keep it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, avoid reheating it in the microwave or oven. Simply let refrigerated slices sit out for about 30 minutes before eating to soften the frosting and enhance flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! While Nutella’s unique hazelnut and chocolate blend makes this cake special, you could substitute with other chocolate-hazelnut spreads or even peanut butter for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor will vary.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend in a one-to-one ratio. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help with texture.
How many servings does this cake make?
This recipe yields about 10 generous servings, perfect for family celebrations or small gatherings where everyone can enjoy a decadent slice.
Can I prepare parts of this cake ahead of time?
You can bake the cake layers and make the frosting a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. This makes assembly easier and gives the flavors time to meld beautifully.
What’s the best way to chop Ferrero Rocher chocolates without a mess?
Using a sharp knife and making gentle, deliberate cuts works well. Keep chocolates chilled beforehand to reduce stickiness and make chopping tidier and easier.
Final Thoughts
This is truly The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe you’ll find—it’s a joyous celebration of chocolate, Nutella, and hazelnuts all rolled into one unforgettable dessert. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or just because life deserves a little sweetness, this cake will bring smiles and dessert plate cleanups in equal measure. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become your go-to indulgence for years to come!
Print
The BEST Ferrero Rocher Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Description
This decadent Ferrero Rocher Cake combines rich chocolate layers with a luscious Nutella frosting and whole Ferrero Rocher chocolates for a truly indulgent dessert experience. Moist and tender chocolate cake layers are complemented by a creamy, hazelnut-filled frosting, crowned with crunchy hazelnuts and iconic chocolates, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Nutella Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Nutella
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or more if needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Decorating and Filling:
- 12–15 Ferrero Rocher chocolates
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure an even texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Mix in the sour cream thoroughly to add moisture and richness to the batter.
- Add Boiling Water: Gradually pour in the boiling water while mixing gently. The batter will be thin, which is expected for a moist cake.
- Fill Cake Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans ensuring uniform layers.
- Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Nutella Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Nutella: Beat in the Nutella until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar in 1/2 cup increments, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Add Cream and Flavoring: Mix in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is light and spreadable. Add more heavy cream as needed if frosting is too thick.
- Level Cakes: Once cooled, trim the tops of the cake layers to make them level if needed for even stacking.
- Assemble Cake – First Layer: Place the first cake layer on your serving platter. Spread a generous layer of Nutella frosting on top evenly.
- Add Ferrero Rocher Filling: Chop 6-8 Ferrero Rocher chocolates roughly and sprinkle them over the frosting layer for delightful texture and flavor bursts.
- Top with Second Layer: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted bottom layer.
- Frost Entire Cake: Use the remaining Nutella frosting to cover the top and sides completely, smoothing it out neatly.
- Decorate: Arrange the remaining Ferrero Rocher chocolates decoratively on top. Optionally sprinkle chopped hazelnuts for an added crunchy texture.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
- Enjoy: Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate, hazelnut, and creamy Nutella with every bite of this luxurious cake.
Notes
- Ensure that the boiling water is added gradually to prevent splashing and to maintain batter consistency.
- If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until desired spreadability is achieved.
- To achieve even cake layers, use a serrated knife or cake leveler to trim domed tops after baking.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator to keep frosting fresh, and bring to room temperature before serving.
- Chopped hazelnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and enhance the Ferrero Rocher theme.
