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There’s something truly special about indulging in a rich, chocolatey dessert that’s entirely guilt-free. I remember the first time I took a bite of this Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake; the decadent chocolate melting in my mouth was a magical moment that made me forget all about store-bought desserts. With a foundation of wholesome ingredients like flaxseed and hazelnut butter, this cake captures the essence of sweetness and depth without any guilt.

On days when I want a tasty treat that won’t lead me down the fast food path, this recipe shines like a beacon. It’s not just about satisfying my sweet tooth—it’s about savoring each bite, blended with delicate notes of pear and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply creating a cozy night at home, this cake is bound to impress. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create a dessert that’s not only delectable but also perfect for those of us seeking a healthier twist on classic indulgences!

Why is Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake special?

Indulgent, Guilt-Free: This cake allows you to indulge your cravings without any guilt.
Nutty Goodness: The hazelnuts and butter provide delightful flavor and texture.
Simple Ingredients: Made with wholesome items like flaxseed and pureed fruit, it’s easy to whip up.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknights to special gatherings. Try serving it with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an even more decadent touch!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: With rich chocolate and subtle sweetness, it appeals to everyone, vegan or not. Each bite is pure bliss!

Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake Ingredients

• To create this delectable cake, gather these wholesome ingredients!

For the Flax Eggs

Ground flax seed – helps bind the cake together while adding healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Filtered water – needed to activate the flax seeds and form a gel-like consistency.

For the Cake Batter

Vegan unsweetened chocolate – provides rich chocolate flavor without any dairy.
Hazelnut butter or almond butter – adds creaminess and nutty flavor; hazelnut butter enhances the cake’s theme.
Pureed pear or apple – serves as a sweetener and moisture booster, giving depth to the cake.
Coconut sugar – a natural sweetener that adds a caramel-like flavor, making indulgence guilt-free.
Sea salt – enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Pure vanilla extract – infuses warmth and complexity, making every bite feel extra special.
Hazelnut meal – contributes to the cake’s delightful texture and nutty taste profile.
Raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder – ensures the chocolate flavor shines through; sprinkle some for a chic touch.

For the Topping

Hazelnuts – adds a crunchy garnish that complements the soft cake.
Chopped dark chocolate – an extra touch of decadence that makes this Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake truly irresistible!

How to Make Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake

Whisk Together: In a bowl, combine the ground flax seed and filtered water, whisking until well mixed. Place the mixture in the fridge for 15 minutes to create a gel-like consistency.
Prepare the Pan: While the flax eggs are setting, oil a 6-inch springform pan with coconut oil. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the cake.
Melt Chocolate: Set up a double boiler and add the chopped unsweetened chocolate and hazelnut butter to the top. Allow them to melt together, whisking often to create a smooth mixture.
Mix in Ingredients: Once melted, whisk in the pear puree, coconut sugar, sea salt, and vanilla extract until the batter is completely smooth.
Incorporate Flax Eggs: Add the flax egg mixture to the warm chocolate blend and whisk for a couple of minutes, ensuring it’s fully mixed and velvety.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the raw cacao powder and hazelnut meal until everything is well combined, creating a rich, thick batter.
Pour into Pan: Carefully pour your batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is dried and mostly set.
Cool and Release: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Carefully release it from the pan and dust with cacao powder for that lovely finishing touch.
Garnish and Serve: Top your cake with crushed hazelnuts and chopped dark chocolate for added flair. Slice, serve, and enjoy the bliss of each decadent bite!

Optional: Add a scoop of vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can prepare the flax eggs up to 24 hours in advance by whisking the ground flax seed and water and refrigerating them. The cake batter can also be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain quality, ensure the batter is covered tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake directly from the fridge. With these make-ahead options, you’ll save time while still enjoying a delightful dessert that tastes just as delicious!

Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your cake with these delightful twists!

Nut-Free: Substitute hazelnut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that’s equally delicious.
Fruity Twist: Use mashed ripe bananas instead of pear or apple puree for a unique fruity flavor that blends perfectly with chocolate.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of espresso powder to elevate the chocolate flavor with a hint of warm spice.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap in a mix of raw cacao nibs and chocolate chunks for a delightful textural surprise with each bite. The added richness will make every mouthful a celebration!
Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate 1/3 cup of pumpkin puree with a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist that’s comforting and cozy.
Coconut Delight: Add shredded unsweetened coconut to the batter for a tropical flair that balances beautifully with the chocolate.
Classy Toppings: Instead of just hazelnuts, top the cake with mixed berries for a fresh burst of flavor and color, making it perfect for gatherings.
Lower Sugar: Reduce the coconut sugar to 3/4 cup and use date syrup or maple syrup for an even healthier twist; your guests will love it!

Enjoy experimenting with these amazing variations that let your taste buds explore new horizons!

Tips for the Best Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake

Gel the Flax Eggs: Make sure to let the flax seeds and water mixture sit in the fridge for the full 15 minutes to achieve the right gel-like consistency, which helps bind the cake perfectly.
Melt Gently: When melting the chocolate and hazelnut butter, whisk often and keep the heat low to prevent burning or seizing; this ensures a smooth batter for your Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense result!
Check for Doneness: The cake should be set and slightly springy to the touch on the surface; an underbaked cake may collapse after cooling.
Cool Before Serving: Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before releasing it from the pan to prevent breaking. This helps maintain its lovely shape and presentation!
Dress It Up: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Adding hazelnuts and chopped dark chocolate makes the Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake look as good as it tastes, enhancing the overall indulgent experience.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure to wrap it well in foil or place it in an airtight container.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out and losing its delicious flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Slice it into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Reheating: To enjoy the cake after freezing, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, delightful treat!

What to Serve with Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake?

Imagine creating a delightful meal that complements every indulgent bite of this rich cake; let’s explore the perfect pairings!

Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this addition enhances the cake’s chocolate flavor and adds a luscious creaminess.
Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries offers a tart pop that beautifully contrasts the cake’s sweetness.
Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla or hazelnut ice cream takes the dessert experience to another level, complementing the cake’s nutty undertones.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A splash of hazelnut or almond butter on top adds a rich, nutty layer of flavor that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso brings out the deep chocolate notes, creating a perfect balance with dessert.
Chocolate Ganache: For extra decadence, drizzle warm ganache over each slice, intensifying the cake’s chocolate richness and making it utterly captivating.

Each of these pairings elevates the experience of enjoying your Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake, ensuring that every bite is a sweet moment to cherish!

Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of hazelnuts should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using raw hazelnuts for roasting at home to bring out their natural nutty flavor. You can also use pre-roasted hazelnuts for convenience, but always check for freshness. Look for nuts that are firm and smell aromatic; avoid ones with dark spots or a rancid odor.

How do I store my Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake?
Very easy! Keep your cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best taste. If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just be sure to rewrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze this cake, and how?
Definitely! To freeze your Vegan Hazelnut Flourless Chocolate Cake, slice it into individual portions first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing after adding the dry ingredients. Make sure to mix just until combined for that light texture. Next time, keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking can also lead to a denser result. Aim for a slightly springy top that holds its shape!

Is this cake safe for those with nut allergies?
Not at all, since it contains hazelnut butter and nuts as garnishes. For a nut-free alternative, you can substitute the hazelnut butter with sunflower seed butter, and simply skip the hazelnuts in the garnish. Be sure to double-check the ingredients used in your flaxseed and chocolate as well!