Chocolate Praline Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, make the praline topping. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it turns a deep caramel color.
10. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the hazelnuts.
11. Spread the praline mixture over the parchment paper and let it cool completely.
12. Once the cake has cooled, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a serving platter or cake stand.
13. Crumble the praline mixture and sprinkle it over the top of the cake.

Verdict:

This chocolate praline cake is a decadent dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. The combination of rich chocolate cake and crunchy hazelnut praline topping is absolutely irresistible. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish with fresh berries or chocolate shavings for added flair
• Pair with a rich cup of coffee for the perfect dessert experience
• For an extra chocolatey twist, mix some chocolate chips into the cake batter before baking