Ultimate layer cake with hazelnuts and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate

Indulge in the pure decadence of this ultimate melt-in-your-mouth hazelnut and chocolate layer cake, a confection that perfectly combines toasted hazelnuts and rich chocolate in several luscious layers. This no-holds-barred dessert features a chocolatey hazelnut meringue base followed by two creamy, luxurious toppings, and is topped with a smooth chocolate frosting that seals in all the flavors. It is a cake that promises to not only melt in your mouth but also delight your senses.

Why you'll love this: This cake is a textural masterpiece with its crunchy, nutty base and velvety smooth toppings. The rich flavor of toasted hazelnuts combined with the depth of dark and milk chocolate makes each bite a complex taste experience. The use of gelatin in the second filling adds a light, mousse-like quality that contrasts beautifully with the denser first layer, providing a multi-layered dessert that is as pleasing to eat as it is to look at.

Perfect occasion: This layer cake is ideal for important events and celebrations where a breathtaking dessert is required. It's perfect for birthdays, anniversaries or any festive gathering where you want to impress your guests with something extraordinary. In addition, it is a luxurious gift for the weekend when you want to pamper yourself or your loved ones.

Decorating Tips: For an elegant finish, consider topping the chocolate frosting with a sprinkle of finely chopped hazelnuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder. Decorative chocolate shavings or gold leaf can add a touch of glamor suitable for special occasions. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent dessert experience.

Ingredients:

• Base:
  • 8 egg whites
  • 125g of sugar
  • 150 g roasted hazelnuts (half ground, half chopped)
  • 40g cocoa powder

• First filling:
  • 8 egg yolks
  • 150 g) sugar
  • 180 g whipped butter
  • 150 g crushed roasted hazelnuts
• Second filling:
  • 150 ml of heavy cream
  • 1 sachet of gelatin dissolved in half a teaspoon of water
  • 80 g of melted chocolate

• Chocolate icing:
  • 2 tablespoons of oil
  • 150g of milk chocolate
  • A small piece of butter

Instructions:

1. Base: Beat the egg whites until stiff and gradually add the sugar until firm peaks form. Gently incorporate the cocoa powder and hazelnuts. Spread the mixture in a 24×34 cm rectangular mold and bake at 180°C for 20 minutes.
2. First filling: Cook the yolks and sugar in a steam bath until thickened. Let cool, then add the whipped butter. Reserve two large spoonfuls; add the crushed hazelnuts to the rest of the mixture and spread over the cooled base.
3. Second filling: Whip the heavy cream, then stir in the gelatin mixture and melted chocolate. Add the reserved two spoonfuls of the first filling and mix gently. Spread over the first layer.
4. Chocolate icing: Heat the oil, chocolate and butter until melted and smooth. Pour over the cake.
5. Cool the cake to set the layers before serving.

Enjoy this luxurious hazelnut and chocolate layer cake, a dessert that is sure to make any occasion unforgettable!