Ferrero Rocher Cake

This Ferrero Rocher Cake is a decadent, multi-layered dessert inspired by the world-famous chocolate and hazelnut confection. With its rich chocolate sponge, velvety Nutella frosting, and crunchy hazelnut layers, this cake delivers an indulgent experience perfect for any celebration or special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines all the elements of Ferrero Rocher into a single slice: moist chocolate cake, creamy Nutella buttercream, chopped hazelnuts, and a luxurious chocolate ganache. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, it’s guaranteed to impress both visually and in flavor. It’s also versatile—you can adjust the ingredients and layers to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Eggs

• Whole milk

• Vegetable oil

• Vanilla extract

• Boiling water

• Nutella

• Unsalted butter

• Powdered sugar

• Heavy cream

• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate

• Chopped roasted hazelnuts

• Ferrero Rocher candies (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the cake layers: Preheat the oven and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until smooth. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is thin. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.

2. Make the Nutella buttercream: Beat the unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Add Nutella and beat until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth. Add a small amount of cream if the frosting is too thick.

3. Assemble the cake: Level the cake layers if needed. Place the first layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of Nutella buttercream, and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts. Repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the outside of the cake with a thin crumb coat, chill briefly, then apply a final thick layer of buttercream.

4. Prepare the ganache: Heat the heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly before pouring over the top of the frosted cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

5. Decorate: Press chopped hazelnuts into the sides of the cake. Garnish the top with Ferrero Rocher candies and additional chopped hazelnuts if desired.

Servings and Timing

This cake yields approximately 12 to 14 servings.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Assembling and Decorating Time: 30–45 minutes
Total Time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Egg-Free: Use a commercial egg replacer or flax eggs for a vegetarian alternative.

• Simplified Version: Use a chocolate cake mix and enhance it with added cocoa and hazelnuts.

• White Chocolate Twist: Replace the ganache with a white chocolate version for a lighter flavor.

• Hazelnut Liqueur: Add a splash of Frangelico to the frosting for an adult version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Ferrero Rocher Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing: The cake layers can be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw completely before assembling.

Reheating: This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If desired, individual slices can be gently warmed in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, though the frosting may soften significantly.

FAQs

What kind of chocolate is best for the ganache?

A high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best to balance the sweetness of the Nutella and frosting.

Can I use store-bought cake mix?

Yes, a rich chocolate cake mix can be used as a shortcut. Add chopped hazelnuts or a bit of espresso powder to elevate the flavor.

How do I make the cake layers even?

Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between pans. You can also trim the tops with a serrated knife after baking.

Is this cake overly sweet?

While rich, the cake balances sweetness with nutty and bitter chocolate elements. You can adjust sugar levels slightly in the frosting if needed.

Can I make the cake in advance?

Yes. The cake layers can be made up to two days ahead and stored wrapped at room temperature or refrigerated. Assemble and frost closer to serving time for freshness.

What can I use instead of Nutella?

You can use any chocolate-hazelnut spread or even a homemade version using roasted hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and sweetener.

How do I get clean slices when cutting the cake?

Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between slices for neat, bakery-style presentation.

Can I make this cake without hazelnuts?

Yes, but it will lose the signature Ferrero Rocher crunch. You could replace them with crushed wafers for texture.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely. Chocolate ganache, whipped ganache, or a mascarpone-based frosting can be good alternatives.

How long does it take for the ganache to set?

Ganache typically begins to set within 15–30 minutes at room temperature. For a firmer finish, refrigerate the cake after pouring.

Conclusion

This Ferrero Rocher Cake is a luxurious dessert that elevates the beloved candy into a full-sized celebration centerpiece. With its layers of moist chocolate cake, silky Nutella frosting, and crunchy hazelnut textures, it’s ideal for those who appreciate rich, indulgent flavors. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or dinner party, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.