Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

Delight in the rich flavors of these Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:30:30.073Z

These Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are a decadent treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the delightful crunch of hazelnuts. Perfect for parties or a special dessert at home, they will surely impress your guests!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes

  • Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy hazelnut filling
  • Light and fluffy cupcake texture
  • Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are a delightful treat that beautifully combine the intense richness of chocolate with the nutty sweetness of hazelnuts. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate, making these cupcakes an instant favorite for chocolate lovers. The chocolate cupcake base is moist and decadent, while the hazelnut cream filling adds a luxurious creaminess that elevates the dessert to new heights.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cupcakes promise to satisfy your taste buds. The combination of cocoa and hazelnut is not only classic but also comforting, making them a perfect choice for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in with loved ones.

Textural Delight

One of the standout features of these cupcakes is their light and fluffy texture. The method of creaming the butter and sugar ensures that air is incorporated into the batter, resulting in cupcakes that are tender and soft. This contrasts beautifully with the creamy hazelnut filling, which provides a luscious mouthfeel that complements the airy cupcake perfectly.

The addition of whipped cream to the filling creates a delightful lightness that enhances the overall experience. The combination of textures—from the fluffy cupcake to the smooth cream filling—makes each bite a delicious journey, leaving you craving more.

Customizable and Versatile

These Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to put your own spin on them. You can experiment with different toppings, such as drizzles of chocolate ganache or a sprinkle of sea salt, to create a unique look and flavor profile. For a fun variation, consider adding a layer of caramel or a dollop of raspberry jam to the cream filling for a fruity twist.

They are also perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or simply a weekend treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Their elegant appearance and rich flavors make them suitable for both casual and formal events, ensuring they will be a hit with all your guests.

Ingredients

Cupcake Batter

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Hazelnut Cream Filling

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup hazelnut spread
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Topping

  • Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
  • Chocolate shavings (optional)

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the preparation!

Instructions

Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk and vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Hazelnut Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the hazelnut spread and powdered sugar until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, use a knife or cupcake corer to remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake. Fill the center with the hazelnut cream mixture. Replace the tops of the cupcakes if desired.

Garnish with chopped hazelnuts and chocolate shavings if using. Serve and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes!

Storage Tips

To keep your Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance their flavors and textures.

If you have leftover hazelnut cream filling, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or simply enjoy it as a delightful dip with fresh fruits. This ensures that nothing goes to waste, and you can continue to enjoy the rich flavors of hazelnut cream.

Pairing Suggestions

For an exquisite dessert experience, pair these cupcakes with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. The robust flavors of coffee enhance the chocolate in the cupcakes, while a sweet dessert wine can complement the hazelnut filling beautifully. This makes for an indulgent end to any meal.

You can also serve these cupcakes alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream balances the richness of the cupcakes, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience. It's a simple yet effective way to elevate your treat!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

→ Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! You can substitute the hazelnut cream with any other flavored cream or custard.

→ Is it possible to freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes before adding the filling and toppings. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes

Delight in the rich flavors of these Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Simple Sweet Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes

What You'll Need

Cupcake Batter

  1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  3. 1 cup granulated sugar
  4. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  5. 2 large eggs
  6. 1/2 cup milk
  7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  9. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  10. 1/4 teaspoon salt

Hazelnut Cream Filling

  1. 1 cup heavy cream
  2. 1/2 cup hazelnut spread
  3. 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Topping

  1. Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
  2. Chocolate shavings (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk and vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 02

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 03

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the hazelnut spread and powdered sugar until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 04

Once the cupcakes are cool, use a knife or cupcake corer to remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake. Fill the center with the hazelnut cream mixture. Replace the tops of the cupcakes if desired.

Garnish with chopped hazelnuts and chocolate shavings if using. Serve and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g