Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake

Name: Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

This Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-02T22:15:28.460Z

This cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience. The combination of bananas and chocolate is a classic that never goes out of style, and adding hazelnuts gives it a unique twist that will impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh banana sweetness
Crunchy hazelnuts add an exciting texture
Perfect for celebrations or as a comforting dessert

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is a celebration of flavors that harmonize beautifully. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas not only enhances the cake's moisture but also complements the richness of chocolate perfectly. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the sweet, fruity notes of the bananas and the deep, satisfying taste of cocoa. Hazelnuts add an additional layer of flavor, introducing a nutty richness that elevates the entire dessert experience.

Whether you're an avid baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable while still delivering impressive results. The combination of ingredients is straightforward, making it easy to whip up this cake for any gathering or special occasion. With its enticing aroma and decadent taste, your guests will be amazed at how such a simple recipe can yield such a luxurious dessert.

A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion

One of the standout features of this Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake is its versatility. It's not just a dessert; it can serve as a delightful centerpiece for birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or even casual family gatherings. The cake's rich flavors make it suitable for both formal occasions and relaxed get-togethers, ensuring it will be a hit no matter the event.

Additionally, this cake can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. For a more indulgent treat, consider adding a layer of ganache or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts or even incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, though this may slightly alter the texture. For an even more delightful treat, serve the cake slightly warmed, allowing the chocolate chips to melt and create a gooey center that enhances the flavor experience.

When it comes to serving, pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This adds a creamy contrast that complements the cake's rich flavors beautifully. For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with fresh banana slices or additional chopped hazelnuts to make your presentation stand out.

Ingredients

For the Cake

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/2 cup chocolate chips

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for a deliciously moist cake.

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before frosting.

Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top and decorate with additional hazelnuts if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Chocolate Hazelnut Cake!

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about this recipe is whether you can substitute the bananas. While ripe bananas are key to achieving the desired sweetness and moisture, you can experiment with apple sauce as a substitute in a pinch. However, the flavor profile will change, and you may need to adjust the sugar accordingly.

Another question often arises about the type of cocoa powder to use. For the best flavor, opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-process cocoa can also be used for a richer flavor, but be mindful that it may affect the cake's rise due to the difference in acidity.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! For a twist on this classic recipe, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile. A pinch of espresso powder can also intensify the chocolate flavor, making each bite even more decadent.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the cake's structure. Additionally, using dairy-free butter and chocolate chips can make this dessert suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for hazelnuts?

You can use walnuts or pecans as a substitute for hazelnuts.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.