This coffee hazelnut sponge cake is light, nutty, and packed with a caffeine kick. Think of it as the cake version of your favorite hazelnut latte, but better. The fluffy sponge absorbs the deep coffee flavor, while toasted hazelnuts add the perfect crunch. It’s the kind of cake that makes plain vanilla feel like a sad afterthought. Whether you’re baking to impress or just need an excuse to consume more coffee, this dessert delivers. Slice, eat, repeat—because moderation is overrated when cake tastes this good.
Coffee Hazelnut Sponge Cake
A fluffy, coffee-infused sponge cake with a rich hazelnut crunch, perfect for caffeine addicts and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup finely ground hazelnuts
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup crushed hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pans:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder.
- Set aside.
Beat the Eggs and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually fold in the flour mixture, alternating with milk and melted butter.
- Stir in the ground hazelnuts.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Frosting:
- Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Cake:
- Spread frosting between the layers and on top.
- Sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice, devour, and maybe share (if you’re feeling generous).
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 7%
- Magnesium: 5%
- Vitamin B6: 4%
- Potassium: 8%
Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor
- Toast the hazelnuts for a deeper, nuttier taste.
- Swap heavy cream for mascarpone for a richer frosting.
- Drizzle with espresso syrup for an extra caffeine boost.
