Hazelnut Cake

This Hazelnut Cake is a delightful treat with a delicate and nutty flavor. The combination of ground hazelnuts, fluffy egg whites, and a touch of butter creates a light and tender texture. The cake is lightly sweetened with confectioners’ sugar, giving it a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the nuttiness of the hazelnuts.

Whether you enjoy it as a simple afternoon indulgence or as a dessert for a special occasion, this Hazelnut Cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, gather the ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure to create this delightful and flavorful Hazelnut Cake. Enjoy each slice of this nutty and delicate treat!

Serves: 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/4 cup unbleached flour
• 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup hazelnuts, finely ground
• 4 egg whites
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Spray or oil an 8-inch cake pan and dust it with flour.
2. In a medium bowl or the container of your food processor, sift together 1/4 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the melted and cooled butter. Pulse the mixture 5 times to combine. Then add the finely ground hazelnuts.
3. In a separate dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Be careful not to overbeat them.
4. Gently combine the whisked egg whites with the dry ingredients, folding them together until well incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once the cake has cooled, sift some confectioners’ sugar over the top for a decorative touch. Slice the cake and serve.

TIPS:

Here are some tips to help you make the best Hazelnut Cake:

• Finely grind the hazelnuts: Make sure to grind the hazelnuts finely to achieve a smooth texture in the cake. You can use a food processor or a high-powered blender for this step.
• Use room temperature ingredients: It’s essential to have the butter and egg whites at room temperature before starting the recipe. This allows for better mixing and helps the ingredients incorporate evenly.
• Don’t overbeat the egg whites: When whisking the egg whites, stop whisking as soon as they form soft peaks. Overbeating can lead to a dense and heavy cake.
• Fold the egg whites gently: When combining the whisked egg whites with the dry ingredients, be gentle to avoid deflating the mixture. Use a spatula to fold the egg whites in, using a cutting and lifting motion until everything is well incorporated.
• Use a properly preheated oven: Ensure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking the cake. This helps the cake rise evenly and bake properly.
• Test for doneness: To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. If there is batter sticking to the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes.
• Let the cake cool before slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
• Sift confectioners’ sugar before serving: Sift a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar over the top of the cake just before serving. This adds a decorative touch and a hint of sweetness.
• Serve and enjoy: Hazelnut Cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking a delicious Hazelnut Cake that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the nutty goodness and savor each bite of this delightful cake!