Indulgent Chocolate Nut Cake with Cream Cheese Filling and Decadent Chocolate Glaze

If you’re a fan of rich, luxurious desserts, this chocolate nut cake with cream cheese filling and a smooth chocolate glaze is the ultimate treat. Perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent weekend dessert, this cake combines the nutty crunch of walnuts or hazelnuts, the creamy tang of a cream cheese filling, and a glossy chocolate glaze for a show-stopping finish. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dessert, along with some helpful tips to get it perfect every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this layered dessert, you’ll need a selection of basic baking ingredients along with some extras to add depth to each layer. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as walnuts or hazelnuts)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Cake

This cake is divided into three main components: the chocolate nut cake, the cream cheese filling, and the chocolate glaze. Each step is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a layered masterpiece.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure even distribution.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil or melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped nuts to add texture to the cake.
5. Bake the Cake – Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the cream cheese filling. This layer adds a wonderful contrast of texture and flavor, balancing the chocolate’s richness.

1. Cream the Ingredients Together – In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. Chill the Filling – For the best consistency, place the filling in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other components. This makes it easier to spread on the cake layer.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake with the Filling

Once the cake has cooled completely, you can slice it and add the cream cheese layer:

1. Slice the Cake in Half – Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the cake horizontally into two even layers.
2. Spread the Cream Cheese Filling – Spread the chilled cream cheese filling on the bottom layer of the cake, creating an even layer. Place the top layer of the cake back on and press gently to secure.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

The chocolate glaze is the final, luxurious touch for this cake. It’s simple to make and gives the cake an elegant finish.

1. Heat the Cream – In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until it’s just about to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
2. Add the Chocolate – Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Let the Glaze Cool Slightly – Allow the chocolate glaze to cool for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, making it easier to control when pouring over the cake.

Step 5: Pour the Chocolate Glaze

Now it’s time for the final touch—coating the cake with that glossy chocolate glaze.

1. Pour and Spread – Pour the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to flow naturally down the sides. Use a spatula to gently spread the glaze for an even coating.
2. Let the Glaze Set – For a firm glaze, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or place it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Nut Cake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing ingredients like eggs and butter to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and creamier filling.
• Choose Quality Nuts and Chocolate: The flavor of the nuts and chocolate will shine through, so using high-quality ingredients can make a noticeable difference.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb.
• Refrigerate Before Slicing: For cleaner slices, chill the assembled cake in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cutting. This will set the cream cheese filling and help the glaze firm up.

Variations to Try

This chocolate nut cake is highly adaptable, so feel free to customize it to your taste:

• Nut Variety: Try using a mix of walnuts and pecans or even almonds for a different flavor and texture.
• Add a Coffee Twist: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the cake batter to deepen the chocolate flavor and add a hint of espresso.
• Citrus Zest: Add a touch of orange or lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a refreshing twist that complements the chocolate.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts in the batter if you prefer a smooth chocolate cake, or substitute them with chocolate chips for added richness.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is best served at room temperature to fully enjoy the creamy filling and smooth glaze. Here are a few ideas for making it an extra-special treat:

• Top with Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, fluffy addition.
• Garnish with Berries: Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Pair with a Hot Beverage: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or even a hot chocolate for a comforting dessert experience.

Storing Your Chocolate Nut Cake

If you have leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cream cheese filling and chocolate glaze will hold well, and the cake will still taste delicious.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Conclusion

This chocolate nut cake with cream cheese filling and chocolate glaze is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining layers of flavor and texture that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking to indulge in something special, this cake is a guaranteed hit. Follow these steps, and you’ll create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery!