Irresistible 3-Ingredient Nutella Cake Bites: Your Quick & Easy Chocolate-Hazelnut Delight
Welcome to the simplest path to pure indulgence: our 3-ingredient Nutella cake bites. These incredibly easy-to-make, bite-sized treats are a dream come true for any chocolate-hazelnut lover. Combining the luscious creaminess of Nutella with a perfectly moist, tender cake texture, they offer a decadent experience in every mouthful. What makes them even better? You need only three basic ingredients to whip up these irresistible delights in mere minutes, making them ideal for spontaneous cravings or last-minute dessert needs.
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About These Nutella Cake Bites
Allow me to elaborate on why these Nutella cake bites are truly everything you could possibly desire in a simple, satisfying dessert! Imagine a velvety, smooth chocolate-hazelnut spread, perfectly melded with a moist, fluffy cake texture. The result is a match made in dessert heaven – an exquisite balance of rich flavor and delightful chewiness that will captivate your taste buds.
Nutella is far from an ordinary spread; it’s a delightful, iconic confection that effortlessly elevates any treat it touches. Personally, it holds a special place in my heart as a favorite indulgence. My deep affection for Nutella truly began during my time studying in Italy, where I enjoyed it almost daily on toast. Its signature creamy richness feels like a warm, comforting hug with every spoonful. When you incorporate this incredible spread into a light and airy cake batter, a truly magical transformation occurs. The Nutella infuses its utterly irresistible flavor throughout every single bite, ensuring a consistent burst of deliciousness.
These cake bites boast a subtle, appealing crunch around their edges, beautifully contrasting with an incredibly soft and moist center that virtually melts in your mouth. The intense chocolate-hazelnut flavor is perfectly balanced – not too sweet, not too rich – making it genuinely impossible to resist reaching for another bite. They offer a sophisticated taste that belies their humble ingredient list.
But perhaps the most alluring aspect of this recipe is its sheer simplicity! With only three core ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats in practically no time at all. It feels like a culinary magic trick, with the only disappearing act being the cake bites from your plate! They are the perfect solution for those moments when a sudden sweet craving hits or when you wish to impress guests with your baking prowess without investing hours in the kitchen. They strike an ideal balance between effortlessness and impressive results.
So, whether you proudly identify as a chocoholic, a Nutella enthusiast, or simply someone with impeccable taste (pun absolutely intended!), these Nutella chocolate cake bites are crafted just for you. They beautifully combine the best elements of indulgent Nutella brownies and comforting Nutella cake into one perfect bite-sized package. Life is simply too short for bland or complicated desserts, and this easy Nutella cake recipe is here to transform every bite into a delicious, memorable adventure. They are not just treats; they are moments of pure joy, simplified.
Remember, baking is a wonderful journey of discovery, so feel empowered to experiment and add your unique personal touch to this Nutella cake bites recipe. If you’re seeking guidance, be sure to explore my detailed tips for success and comprehensive FAQ section. Embrace the process, have fun in the kitchen, and savor the incredibly sweet rewards!
Note: This is an updated version of the original recipe first posted on October 4, 2012, refined for even greater simplicity and enjoyment.
What is Nutella Made Of?
For those curious about the magic behind this beloved spread, Nutella is primarily crafted from hazelnuts that have been expertly roasted and then transformed into a remarkably smooth and creamy paste. This hazelnut base is then meticulously blended with cocoa, palm oil, sugar, skim milk, lecithin (an emulsifier), and a hint of artificial vanilla. This precise combination gives Nutella its distinct, globally recognized flavor and wonderfully spreadable texture.
The beauty of Nutella lies in the synergy of its ingredients. You get the rich, nutty notes of the roasted hazelnuts perfectly complemented by the deep, comforting essence of cocoa. The palm oil contributes to its smooth consistency, while the sugar balances the flavors, creating a sweet profile that isn’t cloying. Milk adds to the creaminess, and lecithin ensures all these elements emulsify beautifully, preventing separation. This makes for a truly harmonious spread that, for many, is the ultimate favorite treat.
It’s not uncommon to find me, on many evenings, indulging in a spoonful of Nutella straight from the jar as my perfect, simple dessert. It’s a comforting ritual that speaks to the irresistible nature of this chocolate-hazelnut delight. Its versatility extends beyond these cake bites; it’s fantastic on toast, with fruit, or simply enjoyed on its own. The reason for its immense popularity worldwide is evident in its unique, comforting, and utterly addictive taste.
Want another easy Nutella treat to satisfy your cravings? Be sure to check out this incredibly addictive Nutella puppy chow recipe for another quick and delicious fix!
Ingredients for Your Nutella Cake Bites
The beauty of this recipe truly lies in its simplicity, requiring just three core ingredients to achieve a wonderfully rich and satisfying dessert. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect Nutella cake bite.
- Nutella: This is, without a doubt, the star of our show. Nutella is a supremely creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread whose delectable texture and rich, distinctive taste form the fundamental flavor component of this entire recipe. Its unique blend of roasted hazelnuts and cocoa provides a depth of flavor that is unparalleled. Trust me, you’ll want to lick the measuring cup clean – it’s that good and truly irreplaceable for the authentic taste of these cake bites.
- Eggs: For this recipe, I highly recommend using large eggs. Eggs serve as a crucial binding agent, providing structure to our cake bites and contributing significantly to their moist and tender texture. They help create that perfect cakey consistency that contrasts beautifully with the rich Nutella. If you need to make this recipe egg-free, you can easily use an egg substitute equivalent to two large eggs without compromising the final product too much.
- All-Purpose Flour: You will need standard all-purpose flour for these delicious cake bites. Flour provides the necessary structure and bulk, ensuring the bites hold their shape while maintaining a light crumb. One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it requires very few dry ingredients; there’s no need for extras like baking powder or salt, which simplifies the process considerably. If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It’s a straightforward substitution that allows everyone to enjoy these delightful treats!
- Optional: Chocolate Chips: While entirely optional, a sprinkling of chocolate chips can elevate these cake bites even further. I love to drop a few on top before baking for an extra burst of chocolate flavor and a pleasing visual touch. However, don’t feel limited to just chocolate chips! You could also experiment with other delightful toppings like finely chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor, or colorful sprinkles to make them more festive and fun. These optional additions allow for easy customization to suit your preference or occasion.
Essential Equipment
One of the many joys of this 3-ingredient Nutella cake bite recipe is that it doesn’t require any fancy kitchen gadgets. You likely already have everything you need right in your cabinets, making it incredibly accessible for even the most novice bakers. Forget about hauling out a bulky stand mixer; this recipe is designed for simplicity and efficiency!
To prepare your delicious batter, you will primarily need a sturdy medium-sized bowl from your existing set of mixing bowls. A reliable whisk will be your best friend for smoothly combining the ingredients, ensuring a consistent batter without lumps. For folding in the flour and scraping down the sides of the bowl, a durable wooden spoon or a silicone spatula will come in handy.
For baking these delightful treats, a standard 12-cup muffin tin is indispensable. To ensure your Nutella cake bites come out perfectly without sticking, I personally prefer to generously grease my muffin tin with a nonstick cooking spray. This creates a barrier that helps them release easily. Alternatively, if you prefer less cleanup or a different presentation, you can opt to use cupcake liners. They work just as well and add a neat, individual touch to each cake bite.
And for an elegant touch when serving, especially if you’re presenting these for a gathering, consider bringing out a beautiful cake stand. It’s a simple yet effective way to dress up these humble yet incredibly delicious cakes, making them look even more inviting and special.
How to Make Nutella Cake Bites
Getting these delectable Nutella cake bites from your kitchen counter to your eager palate is wonderfully straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:
Step 1: Whisk and Mix
First, begin by preheating your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). While the oven heats, prepare your muffin tin. Take a 12-cup muffin tin and generously spray each cup with a nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures your cake bites won’t stick and will release cleanly after baking. As an alternative, you can line each muffin cup with cupcake liners if you prefer; this works just as effectively for easy removal.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the Nutella and eggs. Using a whisk, vigorously beat these two ingredients together until the mixture achieves a wonderfully smooth and uniform consistency. It should be free of any streaks or lumps, ensuring the Nutella is fully incorporated with the eggs. Once smooth, add the all-purpose flour to the bowl. Carefully stir the mixture with your whisk or a wooden spoon until the flour is just combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tougher cake bites. Mix only until no dry streaks of flour remain, and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly among the twelve prepared muffin cups. Aim for roughly the same amount in each cup to ensure consistent baking and uniform cake bite sizes. If you’ve chosen to add an optional topping, such as chocolate chips, now is the time to sprinkle a few over the top of each filled muffin cup.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection
With your muffin tin filled and optionally topped, carefully place it into your preheated oven. Bake the Nutella cake bites for approximately 13 to 15 minutes. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them. You’ll know they’re perfectly baked when the edges appear set and slightly firm, and the middle no longer looks jiggly. For an extra test, insert a toothpick into the center of a cake bite; if it comes out clean, they are done. If you prefer a slightly gooier center, you can reduce the baking time by a minute or two, but ensure the edges are still set.
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Resist the urge to immediately remove the hot cake bites! Allow them to rest and cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. This cooling period is essential as it allows the cakes to set further, preventing them from falling apart when you try to remove them. After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the warm cake bites to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. For a beautiful presentation and an extra touch of sweetness, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar just before serving. Enjoy your homemade, perfectly baked Nutella cake bites!
Tips for Nutella Cake Bite Success
Achieving perfect Nutella cake bites every time is simple with a few key tips. These pointers will help you maximize flavor, texture, and ease of preparation:
- Use Authentic Nutella for Best Flavor: While many chocolate hazelnut spreads exist, Nutella has a distinct, balanced flavor and creamy consistency that is hard to replicate. I highly recommend sticking with genuine Nutella for the tastiest results in this recipe. Its unique blend of roasted hazelnuts and cocoa provides an unparalleled depth of flavor that truly makes these cake bites shine. While I may be biased due to it being one of my favorite foods, the difference in taste and texture is noticeable and worth it.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: This is a crucial step for achieving a tender cake bite. Once you’ve added the flour, mix the batter only until the ingredients are just combined and no dry streaks of flour are visible. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tougher, denser cake texture. A light hand here ensures a wonderfully moist and delicate crumb.
- Fill Muffin Cups Evenly: For consistent baking and uniform cake bites, ensure you divide the batter as evenly as possible between the muffin cups. This prevents some cakes from being overcooked while others are undercooked, resulting in a batch where every bite is equally perfect.
- Allow Them to Cool in the Pan: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cooling baked goods. If you attempt to remove the hot cake bites from the muffin tin too soon after baking, they can be delicate and prone to breaking apart. Allowing them to rest in the pan for 5 minutes enables them to set and firm up, making them much easier to remove cleanly and without damage.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While chocolate chips are a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment! Before baking, you could add chopped hazelnuts for an extra nutty crunch or colorful sprinkles for a festive look. After baking and cooling, consider drizzling them with a touch of melted white chocolate, a dollop of whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar, as shown in the photos, for an elegant finish. A simple buttercream frosting could also turn them into mini cupcakes!
- Ensure Ingredients are at Room Temperature: While not explicitly stated for all ingredients in the recipe card, having your eggs at room temperature can help them incorporate more smoothly with the Nutella, creating a more cohesive and evenly textured batter.
- Accurate Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature is key for baking success. If your oven tends to run hot or cold, consider using an oven thermometer to ensure it’s precisely at 350˚F (175˚C) for optimal baking.
Craving more delightful Nutella recipes? You absolutely must try these: One Bowl Banana Nutella Muffins | Pumpkin Nutella Banana Bread | Nutella Filled Donut Holes | Nutella Rhubarb Puff Pastry Croissants
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying these Nutella cake bites:
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely, yes, you can! The fantastic news is that Nutella itself is naturally gluten-free. Therefore, to transform these delightful cake bites into a gluten-free treat, your only necessary modification is to substitute the regular all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This simple swap allows you to enjoy all that rich, irresistible Nutella flavor in every moist bite, without any concerns about gluten. Ensure your chosen blend is specifically designed for a 1:1 replacement in baking for the best results.
Can I change the recipe yield?
You most certainly can! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to adjust the quantity of cakes produced. If you’re hosting a larger gathering or simply want more deliciousness on hand, you can effortlessly double the recipe to make two dozen cake bites. Conversely, if you’re baking for a smaller group or just for yourself, you can halve the recipe to yield six cakes. The core ingredient ratios remain the same, so scaling up or down is quite straightforward. Just remember to adjust your muffin tin preparation accordingly!
Can I make them with a gooey center?
If you’re a fan of a molten lava cake experience, you can definitely achieve a delightful gooey center with these simple Nutella cakes. To create this coveted texture, all you need to do is reduce the baking time slightly, typically to about 11 to 12 minutes. At this point, the edges of the cake bites should appear set and the top will look baked, but the center will still have a gentle, irresistible jiggle. This indicates a soft, gooey interior. Do note that this recipe contains eggs; if you have any concerns about consuming potentially undercooked eggs, it’s always safest to bake the cakes until they are fully cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I use another spread instead of Nutella?
While I strongly advocate for using authentic Nutella to capture the intended flavor and texture of this recipe, you absolutely can use another chocolate hazelnut spread if you prefer. This might be due to personal taste preferences, or perhaps you require a vegan-friendly alternative to traditional Nutella. Keep in mind that different brands may vary slightly in sweetness, creaminess, and hazelnut intensity, which could subtly alter the final taste and consistency of your cake bites. However, a good quality alternative will still yield delicious results.
How to Prevent Sticking?
Preventing your Nutella cake bites from sticking to the baking pan is quite simple, ensuring easy removal and perfectly shaped treats. There are two primary, highly effective methods to achieve this. My preferred method is to use a nonstick cooking spray; make sure to spray each individual muffin cup generously and thoroughly. This creates an excellent greased barrier that will allow your cakes to release effortlessly once baked and cooled slightly. Alternatively, for a similarly effective solution and often easier cleanup, you can opt to use paper cupcake liners. Simply place a liner in each muffin cup before adding the batter, and your cake bites will pop out cleanly every time.
Can I Freeze Nutella Cake Bites for Later?
Yes, absolutely! Freezing these Nutella cake bites for later enjoyment is incredibly easy and a great way to have a delicious treat on hand whenever a craving strikes. First, ensure that the cakes have cooled completely to room temperature after baking. Once cool, wrap each cake bite individually in a layer of plastic wrap. This individual wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and makes it convenient to grab just one or two at a time. After wrapping, place the individually wrapped cake bites into a freezer bag. It’s important to arrange them in an even layer within the bag, avoiding stacking them on top of one another if possible, especially until they are fully frozen. Seal the freezer bag tightly, removing as much air as possible, and then place it in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to one month, maintaining their wonderful flavor and texture.
Need more dessert inspiration that’s both easy and delicious? Be sure to check out my extensive dessert recipes page for a wealth of ideas!
What to Serve with Easy Nutella Cake Bites
These easy Nutella cake bites are incredibly versatile and delightful enough to enjoy on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience. You can customize them right from the start by topping them with chocolate chips before baking for an extra chocolatey burst, or keep them simple and classic without.
For a beautiful and elegant finish, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a visually appealing touch to these little cakes, making them perfect for any occasion.
Beyond that, consider serving these cakes as a base for a more elaborate dessert. They are fantastic with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream in a bowl, transforming them into a delightful mini sundae. A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce would also be excellent additions. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try topping them with a rich chocolate frosting or a light buttercream for a cupcake-like experience.
Any indulgent dessert finds its perfect counterpart in a delicious cup of coffee, and these Nutella cake bites are no exception. Here are some tasty coffee creations I highly recommend for pairing:
- A warm and comforting Irish coffee can truly turn your day around, offering a sophisticated contrast to the sweetness of the cake bites.
- For something refreshing and easy to prepare, a maple sweet cream cold brew offers a cool and creamy balance.
- If you’re looking to spice things up and awaken your senses, a unique chili caramel macchiato provides an exciting flavor profile that complements the rich chocolate and hazelnut.
Whether enjoyed simply or dressed up, these Nutella cake bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storing and Enjoying Your Nutella Cake Bites
Proper storage is key to keeping your delicious Nutella cake bites fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible. Here’s a comprehensive guide to storing, reheating, freezing, and thawing them:
Store at Room Temperature: Once your Nutella cake bites have completely cooled down to room temperature, they can be stored in an airtight container. This helps to keep them moist and prevents them from drying out. If you need to stack multiple layers of cakes within the container, it’s a good idea to place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together. Stored this way, they will remain wonderfully fresh and delicious for up to 2 to 3 days on your kitchen counter.
Reheat for Warm Indulgence: While delicious at room temperature, many find these cake bites even more irresistible when slightly warm, as it enhances the gooeyness of the Nutella. To gently warm them up, simply place a cake bite in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This short burst of heat is usually sufficient to warm them through, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that truly brings out their rich flavors. This is my personal favorite way to enjoy them!
Freeze for Long-Term Enjoyment: Freezing these Nutella cakes is a fantastic way to prepare them in advance or save them for future cravings. Ensure the cakes are completely cool before freezing. To make them easy to portion and thaw individually, I recommend wrapping each cake bite separately in a layer of plastic wrap. This not only protects them from freezer burn but also allows you to retrieve just the right amount whenever you desire. Once wrapped, transfer them to a sturdy freezer bag. Arrange the wrapped cakes in a single, even layer within the bag if possible, to prevent them from freezing into a solid block. Seal the bags tightly, pressing out any excess air, and place them in the freezer. They can be stored frozen for up to 1 month, maintaining their quality and flavor.
Thaw and Relish: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Nutella cake bites, simply remove as many as you’d like from the freezer. Allow them to thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. Once thawed, unwrap them and they’re ready to be savored! For an extra special treat, you can also warm them up slightly in the microwave after thawing, following the reheating instructions above (about 10 to 15 seconds should do the trick) for that perfectly warm, gooey center.
More Sweet Treats to Explore
If you’ve loved the simplicity and deliciousness of these Nutella cake bites, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more sweet treat recipes. Here are some additional recommendations to satisfy your sweet tooth:
- Mini Nutella Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect delightful pairing for your morning cup of coffee, offering a swirl of chocolate-hazelnut goodness in a small, irresistible package.
- For an elegant and convenient dessert option, Tiramisu Parfaits are individually portioned, making them ideal for a sophisticated dinner party or a personal treat.
- If you’re a devoted fan of the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter, then this Peanut Butter Cup Overload Cake is the ultimate indulgence you need to try.
- Love all things chocolate and looking for a gluten-free option? Don’t miss a slice of this wonderfully moist Gluten-Free Chocolate Bundt Cake, a rich and decadent choice for everyone.
Finally, if you take the time to make this incredible Nutella cake bites recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment below! I genuinely adore hearing when you all try my recipes, and I make it a point to respond to every single comment and question. Your feedback means the world to me!
Feel free to drop any questions you might have in the comments section below, and I’ll do my best to assist you.
Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you create this recipe! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is my absolute favorite thing – I love scrolling through all your wonderful photos. It truly means the world to me to share these culinary joys with you!
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Nutella Cake Bites
Equipment Required
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Measuring Cups
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Measuring Spoons
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Wooden Spoon & Scraper
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French Wire Whisk
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Muffin Pan
Ingredients Listed
- 2 1/2 cups Nutella
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by generously spraying each cup with nonstick cooking spray, or line them with paper cupcake liners for easy removal.
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Nutella and large eggs until the mixture is perfectly smooth and thoroughly combined.
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Add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients. Stir gently using a whisk or wooden spoon until the flour is just combined and no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
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Divide the prepared batter evenly among the twelve muffin cups in your tin. This ensures consistent baking and uniform cake bite sizes.
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If desired, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top of each cake bite before baking for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes. The cake bites are done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you prefer a gooey center, bake for 11-12 minutes until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
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Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the cake bites to rest in the pan for 5 minutes. This cooling time helps them set before transfer.
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After resting, carefully transfer the cake bites to a wire rack to cool completely. For a beautiful finish, dust with powdered sugar just before serving, if desired.