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If you adore the smooth, decadent flavor of Nutella and love a hint of coffee flavor in your desserts, this frosting is your perfect match. Transform your favorite chocolate or vanilla cake into a crowd-pleasing treat with one swoop of this luscious, hazelnut-infused frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Nutella (or your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strong-brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
Begin by beating the softened butter in a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer) until it’s light and airy. This usually takes about two minutes. Next, add the Nutella to the fluffy butter and continue mixing until they’re smooth and unified—this step is where the hazelnut magic really begins!
With the mixer on low speed, gradually sift in the powdered sugar. This will help prevent a sugar storm in your kitchen. Once incorporated, pour in the cooled coffee, add the vanilla extract, and sprinkle in the salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high for another minute, or until the frosting looks glossy and holds soft peaks.
Keep an eye on the thickness of your frosting. If it’s too stiff, drizzle in a tablespoon or two of milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too loose, add a bit more powdered sugar. The goal is a spreadable, pillowy texture that will glide onto your cake effortlessly.
This Nutella cake frosting recipe is marvelous for anyone who wants to infuse a comforting, chocolate-hazelnut twist into their bakes. It’s sweet, creamy, and has that subtle warming coffee note for an extra flavor dimension—perfect for birthdays, casual get-togethers, or a midweek baking fix. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, feel free to omit or swap the coffee for equal parts milk. You could also experiment with other extracts, like almond or orange, for a new flavor spin. Whichever way you choose, this frosting will bring a touch of indulgence and delight to all who taste it.
