Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes

Name: Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup hazelnut spread; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Chopped hazelnuts; Chocolate shavings

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

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

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-03T01:30:29.281Z

These Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the nutty goodness of hazelnuts. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet indulgence at home.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Decadent chocolate and hazelnut flavors harmoniously blend together
Light and fluffy texture with a creamy filling
Visually stunning, making them perfect for celebrations

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are not just desserts; they are an experience that elevates any gathering. Whether you are hosting a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or simply indulging in a weekend treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Their rich chocolate flavor paired with the nutty essence of hazelnuts makes them a crowd favorite, appealing to both children and adults alike.

What sets these cupcakes apart is their stunning appearance. Topped with crunchy chopped hazelnuts and delicate chocolate shavings, they are visually appealing and perfect for special occasions. Your guests will be captivated by their beauty, and you can feel confident in serving them at your next event.

Easy to Make at Home

Don't let the impressive presentation fool you—these Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are surprisingly easy to make! With straightforward steps and ingredients that are easy to find, even novice bakers can successfully whip up a batch. The preparation is simple, from mixing the batter to creating the creamy filling. In no time, you'll have a delectable treat that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.

Moreover, these cupcakes can be made ahead of time, allowing you to plan your baking around your schedule. Bake the cupcakes a day in advance and fill them just before serving for the freshest taste. This flexibility makes them an excellent choice for busy bakers who still want to impress.

A Flavor Combination Like No Other

The marriage of cocoa and hazelnut is a match made in culinary heaven. The deep, rich cocoa flavor of the cupcakes complements the creamy, sweet hazelnut filling perfectly. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of textures and tastes—soft and fluffy cupcake layers contrasted by the smooth, velvety cream. This unique flavor profile keeps everyone coming back for more, ensuring that you won’t have any leftovers on your dessert table.

Additionally, the versatility of these flavors allows for endless variations. You can experiment with different types of chocolate or hazelnut spread to create your own signature version. Add a hint of espresso for a mocha twist or incorporate spices like cinnamon for a warm, cozy touch. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination!

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before you start baking.

For the Cupcakes

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

For the Hazelnut Cream Filling

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup hazelnut spread
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

Chopped hazelnuts
Chocolate shavings

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your delicious cupcakes.

Prepare the Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternating with buttermilk.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill cupcake liners in a muffin tin with batter, about 2/3 full. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add hazelnut spread, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once cupcakes are cool, use a knife to cut a small circle in the center of each cupcake and remove the top. Fill with hazelnut cream and replace the top. Decorate with chopped hazelnuts and chocolate shavings.

Enjoy your homemade Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes!

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help preserve the creamy filling and prevent the cupcakes from drying out. They can be enjoyed for up to three days after baking, making them perfect for planned gatherings or spontaneous cravings.

If you prefer to enjoy them at room temperature, allow the cupcakes to sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. This will enhance their flavor and texture, giving you that freshly baked taste with every bite.

Variations to Try

For those who love a little extra indulgence, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the hazelnut cream filling. This luxurious addition will elevate your cupcakes to another level of decadence. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to deepen the flavor profile.

If you want to make these cupcakes gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful treats, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

These Cocoa Hazelnut Cream Cupcakes are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting dessert experience. For a more festive touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create an indulgent dessert platter.

Consider placing them on a decorative cake stand for a beautiful presentation at your next gathering. Adding fresh berries or mint leaves as garnish can enhance the visual appeal and add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk but adding a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice will mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

→ How can I store the cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, freeze the unfilled cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and fill before serving.

→ What can I substitute for hazelnut spread?

You can use almond butter or any nut butter of your choice.