Decadent Nutella Brownie Cake: The Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Dessert

Prepare to impress and delight with what might just be the most spectacular brownie cake you’ve ever tasted: our Decadent Nutella Brownie Cake. Forget ordinary desserts; this masterpiece takes the humble brownie to new heights, transforming it into a luxurious, multi-layered celebration of chocolate and hazelnut. Imagine thick, fudgy chocolate brownie layers, generously spread with a rich, velvety Nutella frosting, all crowned with a luscious chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts for that perfect crunch. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will captivate any chocolate lover.

While we’ve crafted other incredible creations like the Brownie Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake and the ooey-gooey Turtle Brownie Cake, this Nutella Brownie Cake stands out as a true showstopper. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience, making it the ultimate centerpiece for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something truly special.

Why This Nutella Brownie Cake Will Become Your Go-To Dessert

This isn’t just another dessert recipe; it’s a journey into pure indulgence. Here’s why our Nutella Brownie Cake is destined to be a crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite:

• Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The timeless pairing of rich chocolate and creamy hazelnut (Nutella!) creates an irresistible flavor profile that is both sophisticated and comforting.
• Luxurious Layers: Every slice offers a delightful stack of fudgy brownie, smooth frosting, and silky ganache, ensuring a varied and exciting bite every time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, a joyous birthday celebration, or simply a weekend treat, this cake elevates any event.
• Surprisingly Achievable: Despite its impressive appearance, this cake is designed with accessible steps, making it a rewarding baking project for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Customizable Decadence: With a variety of topping options, you can personalize this cake to match your taste and presentation desires, making it uniquely yours.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click on a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting our blog!

Essential Ingredients for Your Nutella Brownie Cake

Crafting this glorious cake requires a few key components. We’ve simplified the brownie base to make this impressive dessert more approachable, but you can certainly opt for a homemade brownie recipe if you prefer!

For the Fudgy Brownie Layers:

• 2 boxes Brownie mix (9×13 inch pan size): Using a good quality boxed mix saves time without sacrificing flavor. Be sure to follow the package instructions for additional ingredients like eggs, oil, and water.

For the Dreamy Nutella Frosting:

• 2 cups Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
• 4 cups Confectioners’ sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, it provides sweetness and that characteristic silky texture.
• 1 cup Nutella: The star of the frosting, adding an unparalleled chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

For the Silky Chocolate Ganache:

• 2 cups Chocolate Morsels or Finely Chopped Dark Chocolate: High-quality chocolate makes a significant difference here. Using a mix of morsels and finely chopped dark chocolate can enhance flavor and texture.
• 1 cup Heavy cream: The key to creating that rich, pourable ganache.

Optional Toppings for Extra Flair:

• ½ cup Caramel syrup: For an additional layer of sweetness and a beautiful drizzle.
• 1 cup Hazelnuts, chopped: Toasted hazelnuts complement the Nutella beautifully and add a delightful crunch.
• 10 Pepperidge Farm Pirouette Crème Filled Wafers: Elegant and delicious, perfect for adding height and visual interest.
• Pirouline Artisan Rolled Wafers: Another great option for a gourmet touch.
• Chocolate Dessert Cups: For an extra decorative element or to hold additional treats.
• Chocolate Bars: Shaved or broken into pieces for a rustic yet elegant garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Nutella Brownie Cake

Follow these detailed steps to create your showstopping Nutella Brownie Cake. Precision and patience are your best friends when assembling a cake this magnificent!

Part 1: Preparing the Brownie Layers

1. Preheat your oven and prepare your pans according to your brownie mix instructions. Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
2. Prepare the brownie batter as directed on the box mix package. For an extra fudgy result, you might consider slightly underbaking the brownies (by a minute or two) to keep them moist and dense, perfect for a layered cake.
3. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared round pans.
4. Bake the brownies, following the baking time instructions typically recommended for an 8×8-inch pan. Since the batter is spread thinner across three pans, they will bake faster than a single 9×13-inch pan. Keep a close eye on them; a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
5. Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pans on a wire rack. This is crucial for easy handling and to prevent the frosting from melting.

Part 2: Crafting the Dreamy Nutella Frosting

This frosting is truly what sets this cake apart. Its rich flavor and creamy texture are simply divine.

1. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium-high speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
2. Add the full cup of Nutella to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until the Nutella is fully incorporated, and the frosting is smooth, homogeneous, and wonderfully creamy. Avoid overmixing once everything is combined to prevent incorporating too much air.

Part 3: Making the Silky Chocolate Ganache

Chocolate ganache provides a beautiful, glossy finish and an extra layer of chocolatey goodness. We’re using a 2:1 chocolate to heavy cream ratio for a pourable yet spreadable consistency.

1. Place the finely chopped chocolate or chocolate morsels into a heatproof bowl. Using finely chopped chocolate helps it melt more quickly and evenly.
2. In a microwave-safe measuring cup or small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to boil. This typically takes about 1 minute in the microwave, but times can vary depending on your microwave’s wattage. Watch carefully to avoid boiling over.
3. Immediately pour the hot heavy cream over the chocolate in the bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 30 seconds to allow the heat to melt the chocolate.
4. After 30 seconds, begin stirring the chocolate and cream together gently with a whisk or spatula. Continue stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth, glossy, and uniform in color.
5. Note: If your chocolate doesn’t melt completely and the mixture has cooled down, you can microwave it for 15-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the ganache is perfectly smooth. Be careful not to overheat.

Part 4: Assembling Your Decadent Nutella Brownie Cake

This is where all your hard work comes together! Take your time for a beautiful presentation.

1. Ensure all brownie layers are completely cooled. If they are still warm, the frosting will melt and slide.
2. Place one brownie layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of Nutella frosting over the top, extending to the edges.
3. Carefully place the second brownie layer on top of the first, pressing down gently. Repeat with another generous layer of Nutella frosting.
4. Top with the final brownie layer. Spread a thin “crumb coat” of Nutella frosting around the sides and top of the entire cake. This helps to seal in any loose crumbs and creates a smooth base for the final ganache. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
5. Once the crumb coat is set, remove the cake from the fridge. Gently warm the prepared chocolate ganache if it has become too thick (microwave for 10-15 seconds, stir well).
6. Pour the warm, but not hot, ganache over the top center of the Nutella Brownie Cake. Using an offset spatula, gently spread the ganache across the top, allowing some of it to drip aesthetically down the sides.
7. While the ganache is still wet, immediately top your cake with chopped hazelnuts, a drizzle of caramel syrup, pirouettes, or any other desired decorations. The ganache will set fairly quickly, so prompt decorating is key.
8. Allow the ganache to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
9. Enjoy your magnificent creation!

Tips for Perfecting Your Nutella Brownie Cake

Achieving a bakery-worthy Nutella Brownie Cake is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter for the frosting is truly at room temperature. Cold butter won’t cream properly, leading to a lumpy frosting.
• Don’t Overbake Brownies: Slightly underbaked brownies stay fudgier and moister, which is ideal for a layered cake. Overbaked brownies can be dry and crumbly.
• Cool Completely: Patience is key! Do not attempt to frost or ganache warm brownies, or you’ll have a melted mess. Let them cool fully, or even chill them in the fridge for a bit.
• Level Your Brownies: If your brownie layers dome slightly, use a serrated knife to carefully level them once cooled. This ensures a neat, stable cake structure.
• Smooth Frosting Technique: Use an offset spatula for the smoothest application of frosting and ganache. For clean edges, chill the cake briefly after applying each layer of frosting.
• Quality Chocolate for Ganache: Better quality chocolate will yield a smoother, richer, and more stable ganache.
• Toasting Hazelnuts: For the best flavor, lightly toast your hazelnuts before chopping and sprinkling them on the cake. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Clean Slices: For perfectly clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

This Nutella Brownie Cake is quite robust and stores well, making it an excellent option for preparing in advance.

• Storing at Room Temperature: If storing for a short period (up to 1-2 days), the cake can be kept in an airtight container at cool room temperature. However, due to the butter in the frosting, refrigeration is generally recommended for longer storage.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, cover the cake loosely or place it in an airtight cake carrier and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring slices to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual slices or the entire cake (without toppings like fresh fruit, if any). Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tips:
  • Bake the brownie layers a day or two in advance. Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly and store at room temperature or in the fridge.
  • Prepare the Nutella frosting a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip it briefly with an electric mixer until fluffy again.
  • The chocolate ganache is best made fresh just before assembly, as its consistency can change upon refrigeration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions about making your Nutella Brownie Cake? We’ve got answers!

Can I make this cake with homemade brownies from scratch?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite fudgy brownie recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure you adjust baking times and divide the batter for three 9-inch round pans. The key is to aim for a dense, fudgy brownie that can support the layers.

What kind of chocolate should I use for the ganache?

For the best results, use good quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate. Chocolate chips work, but finely chopped baking bars often yield a smoother, glossier ganache. Avoid milk chocolate as it can be too sweet and not set as well.

My frosting seems too stiff/too runny. How do I fix it?

If your frosting is too stiff, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time, mixing well after each addition until desired consistency is reached. If it’s too runny, you can add a tablespoon or two of extra confectioners’ sugar, or chill the frosting in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, then re-whip it.

Can I make this a two-layer cake instead of three?

Yes, you can! You’ll need to adjust the amount of brownie batter per pan or simply use two thicker brownie layers. The overall baking time for thicker layers will increase, so watch them closely. You might also have leftover frosting or ganache.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use a certified gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients (like Nutella) are also gluten-free. If making brownies from scratch, use a gluten-free flour blend.

What are other great topping ideas?

Besides what’s listed, you could add chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, a sprinkle of sea salt (to enhance the chocolate flavor), fresh raspberries (for a pop of tartness and color), or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side!

Discover More Decadent Brownie Cake Recipes

If you’re a fan of layered brownie desserts, you’ll love exploring these other incredible creations from our kitchen:

• Brownie Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake: A playful combination of fudgy brownie and classic cookie dough.
• Turtle Brownie Cake: Indulgent layers featuring pecans and caramel, inspired by the classic candy.

NUTELLA BROWNIE CAKE
Like this recipe? Pin it to your Desserts board to save for later!
Follow Home. Made. Interest. on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and home ideas.