Traditional Italian Hazelnut & Espresso Cake
For the cake:
- 2 cups Oregon hazelnut flour or meal
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 7 oz (1¾ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup freshly brewed espresso (about 2 shots)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
For the finish:
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting
- 3 tbsp espresso coffee
- Mascarpone or whipped cream, for serving
Here’s How:
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, add all the ingredients. You can also use a food processor for this. Blend everything together until it forms a smooth cake
- Bake: Spoon the mixture into a well-greased and floured round tin, such as a Bundt pan. Bake at 340°F (170°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Serve: Cool slightly, then mix the espresso with the powdered sugar and brush it all over the cake. Serve warm or at room temperature with a spoonful of mascarpone.
Chef’s Note:
For an extra hit of indulgence, drizzle a little warm espresso syrup or chocolate sauce over the top before serving. Oregon hazelnuts give this cake its unmistakable richness — a taste of the Pacific Northwest with a touch of Italian soul.