Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both simple and spectacular, let me introduce you to the Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake. This delightful treat captures the rich, nutty essence of hazelnuts combined with a light, airy texture thanks to whipped egg whites. Without any flour, its naturally moist crumb feels almost like a cloud of toasted nuts and sweetness melting in your mouth. Whether served at a festive occasion or a cozy night in, this cake stands out with its elegant simplicity and deeply comforting flavors, making Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake a beloved classic worth trying again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great recipe starts with the right ingredients, and this cake is no exception. The few essentials you’ll need each bring something special to the table, from the earthy crunch of hazelnuts to the lightness lent by fresh eggs. Together, they create a perfectly balanced cake that’s naturally gluten-free and irresistible.

• Finely ground hazelnuts: The star of the cake, providing rich nutty flavor and a delicate crumb.
• Egg yolks: Add creaminess and richness, helping to bind the batter beautifully.
• Egg whites: Whipped to stiff peaks, these give the cake its airy and fluffy structure.
• Sugar (or coconut sugar): Sweetens the cake naturally, balancing the nutty notes.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• Optional garnishes (whipped cream and toasted hazelnuts): For that extra touch of indulgence and texture contrast.

How to Make Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and lining a round cake pan is essential to ensure the cake bakes evenly and releases effortlessly after baking. Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the cake’s delicate crust intact.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolks and Sugar

Beat the egg yolks together with sugar and vanilla until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—this step is crucial for incorporating air that’ll add lightness and volume to the batter. The vanilla enhances the flavor, infusing the batter with sweet, comforting notes that perfectly complement the hazelnuts.

Step 3: Fold in the Ground Hazelnuts

Gently mix the finely ground hazelnuts into the yolk mixture. The batter will thicken quickly, becoming dense and rich with the roasted nut flavor. Take your time here to ensure the nuts are evenly distributed, setting the foundation for that signature nutty texture.

Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites with Salt

In a clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step is what transforms the otherwise dense batter into an airy, cloud-like cake. The salt balances the sweetness and helps stabilize the egg whites for folding.

Step 5: Carefully Fold Egg Whites into Batter

Use a gentle folding technique to combine the egg whites with the hazelnut batter. The goal is to keep as much air as possible while blending everything together, which ensures your cake will have a light, tender crumb instead of becoming dense or heavy.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cake is set through and boasts a gorgeous golden top. Resist the urge to open the oven too often; a steady oven temperature helps the cake rise and bake evenly.

Step 7: Cool and Garnish

Once baked, allow the cake to cool fully before removing it from the pan. Cooling lets the texture settle, and the flavors deepen. If you want to elevate it even more, top with a dollop of whipped cream and scattered toasted hazelnuts for a crunchy, creamy finish that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake

Garnishes

Whipped cream is a classic complement, providing a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the nutty, slightly dense cake. Toasted hazelnuts add an extra crunch and highlight the cake’s main ingredient with added depth. For a burst of freshness, a few fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar can also brighten the presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a cup of strong coffee or a mild tea to balance its richness. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of tart fruit compote makes a lovely companion, adding creaminess or acidity that lifts the nutty flavors to new heights.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into petite rounds embossed with edible flowers or dusted with cocoa powder for an elegant dessert plate. For a casual gathering, serve it on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of fresh fruit and nuts, inviting guests to mix and match bites. The cake can also be layered with whipped cream and chocolate ganache for a decadent twist that’s sure to wow.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its moist and tender texture. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for about a week while remaining deliciously fresh.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring back some warmth and freshness, gently reheat slices in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the cake. A little warmth makes the hazelnut aroma even more inviting and the cake wonderfully soft again.

FAQs

Is Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Since this cake uses no flour, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I substitute hazelnuts with another nut?

You can, but hazelnuts provide a unique flavor and texture that truly define this cake. Almonds or walnuts are possible swaps but will alter the overall taste and crumb slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake should be golden on top and set in the center when gently touched. A toothpick inserted in the center might come out with a few moist crumbs but shouldn’t be wet with batter.

Can I make this cake vegan or dairy-free?

This traditional recipe relies on eggs, so it’s not vegan as is. However, some experimenters use aquafaba (chickpea water) to replace egg whites, though the texture may differ. Since there’s no dairy, it’s naturally dairy-free unless topped with cream.

What’s the best way to grind hazelnuts finely?

Using a food processor to pulse roasted hazelnuts carefully prevents turning them into nut butter. Stop as soon as the nuts reach a powdery, sandy texture for the best cake crumb.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Hungarian Flourless Hazelnut Cake a try. It’s such a beautifully simple dessert that sings with natural nutty goodness and light, tender crumb—perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a quiet afternoon. Once you make it, I’m pretty sure it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any occasion.

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