Valentine’s Day Nutella Cake for Two
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- Souffle dishes
- Ring mold
INGREDIENTS
- ⅓ cup/100 grams Nutella spread for topping, melted
Batter:
- ½ cup/150 grams Nutella spread
- 2 large eggs
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons/22 grams all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling:
- ½ cup/120 milliliters heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons/30 grams cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons/30 grams Nutella spread
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon/10 grams instant vanilla pudding
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a small loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the Nutella, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the salt and flour, stirring just until combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the center is just set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth. Add the Nutella, powdered sugar, and pudding mix, then whip until light and fluffy.
- Use a round cutter or a glass to cut 4-inch (10 cm) circles from the cooled cake. Layer the cake rounds with the Nutella cream, smoothing the sides for a clean finish. Place in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Drizzle the melted Nutella over the chilled cake, using a spoon or piping bag to create decorative swirls or heart shapes. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
RECIPE NOTES
MY NOTES
FAQ
What makes this Nutella cake perfect for Valentine’s Day?
This Nutella cake is ideal for Valentine’s Day because it is rich, decadent, and perfectly portioned for two. The combination of fudgy chocolate cake and creamy Nutella-infused filling creates a luxurious texture that feels special without being overly complicated. Unlike larger cakes, this bento-style cake is easy to assemble and decorate, allowing for a personalized touch. The Nutella drizzle on top adds an elegant finish, and you can shape it into hearts for a festive touch. Additionally, it can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for a romantic celebration without last-minute stress.
Can I make this Nutella cake ahead of time?
Yes, this Nutella cake can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for special occasions. The cake base can be baked and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cream filling can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated in a covered container. Once assembled, the cake should be stored in the fridge and is best enjoyed within 24 to 48 hours. If you want to freeze it, wrap the assembled cake in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to a month.
How do I store the Nutella cake after assembling?
After assembling, the Nutella cake should be stored in the refrigerator to keep the filling and topping fresh. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge. If you plan to serve it within 24 hours, refrigeration is sufficient. For longer storage, freezing is an option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn. Before serving, allow the cake to thaw in the fridge for a few hours to maintain its texture. Avoid leaving the cake at room temperature for extended periods.
What can I use instead of instant vanilla pudding?
If you don’t have instant vanilla pudding, you can replace it with cornstarch and powdered sugar to help stabilize the cream filling. Use one teaspoon of cornstarch and one additional teaspoon of powdered sugar for every tablespoon of pudding mix. Alternatively, instant vanilla custard powder or a small amount of vanilla-flavored instant gelatin mix can provide a similar thickening effect. If you prefer a more natural approach, simply whip the cream cheese and heavy cream together longer to achieve a stable consistency without any added stabilizers. The texture may be slightly softer but still delicious.
How to achieve the perfect creamy texture for the filling
For the best texture, ensure that the heavy cream is very cold before whipping, as this helps it thicken faster. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese first until smooth, then gradually add the heavy cream while mixing to prevent lumps. Once the mixture becomes fluffy, incorporate the Nutella, powdered sugar, and pudding mix. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can cause the cream to become too stiff or grainy. If the filling appears too soft, refrigerate it for 15–30 minutes before assembling the cake. Using full-fat cream cheese also enhances the smoothness of the filling.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
You can make an egg-free version by substituting each egg with one of the following: ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce, ¼ cup of mashed banana, or ¼ cup of plain yogurt. Another option is mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and letting it sit for five minutes to form a gel-like consistency. These substitutes help maintain moisture and binding in the cake. However, the texture may be slightly denser than the original. If needed, add an extra ½ teaspoon of baking powder to help maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Is there a way to make this Nutella cake gluten-free?
You can make this Nutella cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Almond flour can also be used, but it may create a slightly denser texture. If using a blend without xanthan gum, add ¼ teaspoon of it to help bind the ingredients together. Ensure all other ingredients, including the pudding mix, are certified gluten-free. Baking times should remain similar, but always check the doneness with a toothpick since gluten-free cakes sometimes take a few minutes longer to set.
Some creative variations or mix-ins for this recipe
For a twist, mix chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture. Swirl peanut butter or caramel into the filling for a layered flavor. A coffee-infused version can be made by adding one teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter. For a fruity contrast, add a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between the cake and filling. You can also make a cookies-and-cream version by folding crushed Oreos into the cream filling. Topping the cake with toasted coconut, crushed pretzels, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the taste and texture.
How do I prevent the Nutella cake from becoming too dry?
To keep the cake moist, avoid overbaking by checking for doneness at the 17-minute mark. The cake should spring back lightly when pressed. Use room-temperature eggs, as cold eggs can cause the batter to bake unevenly. If the batter seems too thick, add one tablespoon of milk to loosen it slightly. Measuring flour correctly is also key—use a spoon to fill the measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to excess flour. Storing the cake in an airtight container or wrapping it in plastic wrap helps retain moisture.
