As I stood in my kitchen, the rich, nutty aroma of toasted hazelnuts filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy European café. That’s the magic of this Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake with Espresso & Chocolate Glaze—it’s a culinary journey that marries a moist, tender crumb with the sophisticated flavors of espresso and chocolate. Not only is this cake perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering, but it’s also a delightful way to treat yourself without the fuss of complex baking. The glossy glaze drapes over the cake like a luxurious blanket, inviting everyone to indulge. Curious about how to whip up this show-stopper? Let’s dive in!

Why is this cake so special?

Unique Flavor Profile: The nutty richness of hazelnuts paired with bold espresso creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Effortless Elegance: This bundt cake not only looks stunning but requires minimal effort, allowing you to impress without stress.
Versatile Option: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant parties; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Moist and Delicious: The combination of sour cream and finely chopped chocolate ensures a moist texture that melts in your mouth.

Looking for more indulgent desserts? Try my Decadent Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole or delight your guests with Strawberry Bliss Cake!

Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; no substitutions required.
• Ground Hazelnuts (Hazelnut Meal) – Adds nutty flavor and texture; substitute with almond meal for a similar taste.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Baking Soda – Works with the acidic sour cream for optimal leavening.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor profile.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with unsalted margarine.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its structure.
• Eggs – Provide moisture and binding; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; alcohol-free options work as well.
• Sour Cream – Ensures moistness and a subtle tang; full-fat Greek yogurt is a great alternative.
• Espresso – Delivers a robust coffee flavor; substitute with strong brewed coffee or omit for a pure nut and chocolate taste.

For the Glaze
• Finely Chopped Chocolate – Provides a rich chocolate flavor; use high-quality chocolate for the best results.
• Heavy Cream – Mixes with chocolate and butter for a smooth glaze; can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

For the Garnish
• Lightly Toasted Hazelnuts – Adds texture and enhances the nut flavor; sprinkle generously!

Indulge in this Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake and experience a slice of culinary delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, generously grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to ensure a clean release of your Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake once baked. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful bundt shape without any sticking issues.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of ground hazelnuts, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix will provide the essential structure and flavor for your cake. Set it aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, creating a tender and moist crumb for your Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add 4 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well combined before adding the next. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This will enhance the cake’s overall flavor while providing moisture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with 1 cup of sour cream and ½ cup of espresso. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and thick, ready to transform into a sensational cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Spoon the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even finish. Bake in your preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of hazelnuts will fill your kitchen, indicating that deliciousness is on its way!

Step 7: Cool Before Inverting
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the cake set and makes it easier to invert without breaking. After 15 minutes, carefully turn the pan upside down, releasing your beautiful Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake onto a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
For the glossy chocolate glaze, heat ½ cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan until it simmers. Remove from heat and pour over 8 ounces of finely chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth. Your glaze is now ready!

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, pour the chocolate glaze over the top, allowing it to elegantly drip down the sides. To finish, generously sprinkle ½ cup of lightly toasted hazelnuts on top for added texture and a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your creation!

Make Ahead Options

These Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cakes are perfect for meal prep aficionados looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, the cake itself can be baked and cooled, then covered tightly and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain its moist texture and deliciousness, allow it to come to room temperature before glazing. When you’re ready to serve, simply prepare the chocolate glaze and pour it over the cake, garnishing with toasted hazelnuts for that ultimate indulgent touch. Enjoy the effortless pleasure of having this stunning dessert ready to impress!

How to Store and Freeze Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious for those late-night cravings!

Fridge: If you want to extend its life, refrigerate the bundt cake for up to a week. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If desired, reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm, before enjoying the rich flavors of your Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake again!

Expert Tips for Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature for the best mixing and texture results.
Don’t Over-Mix: Gently fold the ingredients together, as over-mixing can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the batter is just combined.
Proper Greasing: Use a light hand when greasing the bundt pan with butter and flour to prevent sticking. Consider using baking spray for easier release.
Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for exactly 15 minutes; this is vital to avoid breakage when inverting onto a rack.
Quality Chocolate: For the glaze, use high-quality finely chopped chocolate to achieve the richest flavor and a smooth texture in your decadent hazelnut bundt cake.

Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake Variations

Feel free to transform this cake into your unique masterpiece, as the flavors blend beautifully!

Nut-Free: Swap hazelnuts with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative that retains richness.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free version.
Chocolate Overload: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra melty treats throughout!
Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest of one orange into the batter for a citrusy burst that pairs wonderfully with espresso.
Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy ingredients with coconut cream, almond milk, and dairy-free chocolate for a delightful dairy-free version.
Caramel Drizzle: Enhance your glaze with a swirl of caramel sauce, adding a rich, sweet finish to each slice.
Espresso-less: Omit the espresso entirely for a nut-and-chocolate explosion without the coffee flavor.

If you love a good bundt cake, consider trying my Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nutty Bars as another delightful treat! And for something with a stunning presentation, don’t miss my Decadent Hot Fudge Brownie Bread.

What to Serve with Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake

Imagine a beautiful gathering, where every bite of the rich, nutty cake is complemented by delightful sides that elevate your dessert experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy, sweetened cream enhances the nutty bliss, providing a light contrast to the dense cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture melts into the warm cake, balancing sweetness with a classic touch that feels indulgent.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the richness while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Espresso Coffee: Sipping on a cup of robust espresso brings out the coffee notes in the cake, creating a sophisticated pairing that coffee lovers will enjoy.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a warm caramel sauce adds a luxurious sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the chocolate glaze for an extra indulgent touch.
Pecan Crumble: A sprinkle of toasted pecans gives a delightful crunch, enhancing the cake’s nutty flavors while adding pleasant texture to each bite.
Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate aficionados, a side of smooth ganache mirrors the glaze, making each slice even more decadent and chocolatey.
Milkshake: A creamy hazelnut milkshake creates a perfect nostalgic pairing, appealing to those craving a sweet treat with a twist.
Fruit Salad: A light, citrusy fruit salad brightens up the dessert table, adding freshness and a pop of color to your indulgent spread.

Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of hazelnuts should I use?
Absolutely! Use fresh, lightly toasted hazelnuts for the best flavor and texture. Look for hazelnuts without dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the taste. You can also buy hazelnut meal, which is ground hazelnuts, if you want to save some time.

How should I store the Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake?
Very! To keep your bundt cake fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, it can be refrigerated for up to a week, just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake, wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before serving.

What if my cake sticks to the bundt pan?
Oh no, that can be frustrating! To prevent this, ensure you’ve greased and floured the bundt pan properly before adding the batter. If it does stick, allow the cake to cool for 15 minutes in the pan before inverting it. If it still doesn’t come out easily, gently use a silicone spatula around the edges to help loosen it.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This Decadent Hazelnut Bundt Cake contains gluten and dairy because of the all-purpose flour and butter. If you or your guests have allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour and coconut cream for the glaze to create a more allergy-friendly version. Always ensure to check the ingredients to suit dietary needs.