Cake with hazelnuts, caramel, and chocolate

Hazelnut, Caramel, and Chocolate Cake - A Delight for Unforgettable Moments

If you want to impress your friends or family with a dessert that combines the crunchy texture of hazelnuts, the sweetness of caramel, and the richness of chocolate, then this recipe is for you! This hazelnut, caramel, and chocolate cake is not just a treat, but also a gastronomic experience. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this delicious dessert, step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

Layer 1:
- 160 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 120 g sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 360 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- rum essence (about 1 teaspoon)

Layer 2:
- 150 g sugar
- 70 g butter
- 100 ml heavy cream
- 200 g hazelnuts (roasted and coarsely chopped)
- 200 g Petite Beurre biscuits (or plain biscuits)

Layer 3:
- 200 g chocolate (dark or milk, according to preference)
- 50 g butter
- 50 ml liquid cream
- chocolate flakes for decoration

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the base layer

We start with layer 1, which will form the base of the cake. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter with the sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to mix the ingredients until you achieve a fluffy and homogeneous mixture. Add the egg yolks, rum essence, and mix again.

In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step is essential as it aerates the flour and helps achieve a finer texture. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter composition, mixing with a spatula until everything is well combined.

Once you have obtained a homogeneous dough, transfer it to the baking tray (recommended size: 20x30 cm), lined with baking paper. Spread the dough evenly, leveling it with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden. Let it cool completely in the tray.

Step 2: Preparing the caramel layer with hazelnuts

While the base layer cools, let’s take care of layer 2. In a medium saucepan, add the sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns into a golden caramel. Be careful not to leave it on the heat too long, as it can easily burn.

Once the sugar has melted, add the butter and heavy cream. Stir continuously for a few minutes until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Let the caramel cream cool slightly, then incorporate the roasted hazelnuts. This aromatic and creamy mixture will be poured over the cooled base.

Step 3: Biscuit and chocolate layer

After pouring the caramel cream with hazelnuts over the cake base, it's time to add the biscuit layer. Dip each biscuit in coffee (or warm water, if you prefer a caffeine-free version) and arrange them evenly over the caramel layer.

For the final layer, let’s take care of the chocolate. In a heatproof bowl, add the chocolate, butter, and liquid cream, then place it over a double boiler. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes homogeneous. Pour this composition over the biscuit layer, ensuring it covers evenly.

Finishing and serving

Finally, decorate the cake with chocolate flakes for an attractive appearance. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours or, ideally, overnight. This waiting time is essential as it allows the flavors to blend and the base to become softer due to the moisture from the caramel.

When you are ready to serve, cut the cake into squares or rectangles. This dessert will be perfectly accompanied by a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea, providing a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

Practical tips:
- Use roasted hazelnuts to enhance the flavor. You can also experiment with other nuts, such as pecans or pistachios.
- Make sure the base is completely cooled before adding the caramel layer, otherwise, it will melt.
- If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, opt for dark chocolate or add a splash of vanilla essence to the chocolate mixture.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can replace hazelnuts with other nuts, depending on personal preferences.

2. How can I avoid caramelizing the sugar?
Stir the sugar constantly over the heat and watch it carefully to prevent burning.

3. Is this a recipe suitable for making a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the cake becomes even more delicious after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This cake contains approximately 350 calories per serving. Hazelnuts provide a significant amount of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants. It is an indulgent dessert, but it also offers some nutritional benefits.

Possible variations:
- Add a layer of berry jam between the biscuit layer and the chocolate layer for a fruity note.
- Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter version.

Thank you for choosing to make this hazelnut, caramel, and chocolate cake. I hope you enjoy every bite, and your friends will be delighted by this treat!