Pisces Nutella Swirl Cake

Name: Pisces Nutella Swirl Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup Nutella

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

I absolutely love baking this Pisces Nutella Swirl Cake during special occasions. The rich combination of chocolate and hazelnut creates a delightful swirl that not only looks stunning but also tastes heavenly. Each slice offers an irresistible balance of moist cake and creamy Nutella, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. I often find myself serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Trust me, it’s a dessert that leaves a lasting impression and a satisfied smile on everyone's face!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-30T01:07:29.834Z

Baking the Pisces Nutella Swirl Cake has been a delightful journey for me. I remember the first time I made it; the smell of chocolate wafting through my kitchen was simply irresistible. This cake is unique not only for its flavors but for the technique of swirling the Nutella. I learned that gently swirling creates beautiful patterns without overmixing and losing that rich Nutella flavor.

During one of my baking sessions, I decided to experiment by adding a hint of orange zest, which introduced an exciting twist. The combination of chocolate and citrus elevates the cake, making it feel even more special for celebrations. It’s tips like these that I cherish, as they turn an already fantastic recipe into something truly memorable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate and hazelnut flavor in every bite
Beautifully swirled for an impressive presentation
Versatile enough for any occasion or celebration

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving a moist and tender cake lies in the quality of your ingredients. When selecting flour, opt for a good all-purpose variety; it serves as the backbone of the cake, providing structure without making it dense. The unsweetened cocoa powder is integral in giving the cake its rich chocolate flavor. Make sure to choose a high-quality cocoa for the best results, as it will enhance the overall taste of the cake.

The use of boiling water in the batter is a crucial step that might surprise some bakers. This technique helps to bloom the cocoa, which releases its flavor more effectively, resulting in a deeper chocolate taste. Additionally, the hot water increases the cake's moisture content, contributing to that decadent texture you’re looking for. Just be sure to handle the batter carefully during this step to avoid splattering.

Mastering the Swirl Technique

Swirling the Nutella into the batter is not just about aesthetics; it’s about evenly distributing flavor throughout the cake. When dolloping the Nutella onto the batter, aim for an even distribution across the surface. Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the Nutella into the batter, being careful not to over-mix. You want distinct swirls to form, as this creates those beautiful marbled patterns once the cake is baked.

A common mistake is to over-swap the mixture, which can lead to a muddied appearance and less pronounced chocolate-hazelnut flavor contrasts. I recommend practicing a light swirling motion rather than aggressive mixing. This preserves the Nutella's creamy texture and ensures that you have visible swirls throughout your finished cake, making every slice visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Pisces Nutella Swirl Cake:

Cake Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup Nutella

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your delicious Pisces Nutella Swirl Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and thin.

Prepare for Baking

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Drop dollops of Nutella on top of each cake batter and use a knife to swirl.

Bake the Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, serve the cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also try topping it with chopped hazelnuts for added crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once baked and cooled, this cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you need longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Slice it first for convenience. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to thaw only as many slices as you need, preserving the cake's freshness.

If you're preparing for a special occasion, you can also bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just remember to store it well covered to prevent it from drying out. When ready to serve, let the cake come to room temperature before enjoying it, as this enhances the flavor and texture of the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this cake with a dollop of whipped cream elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence. The lightness of the whipped cream beautifully complements the rich chocolate and Nutella, providing a delightful contrast in texture. For an extra special presentation, you can drizzle some additional melted Nutella on top just before serving, ensuring that every bite is as decadent as possible.

If you want to create a more elaborate dessert experience, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm cake. The cold creaminess of the ice cream contrasts delightfully with the warm, fudgy cake. You might also consider adding some chopped hazelnuts on top for an added crunch, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut spread instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! You can use almond butter or peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

→ Is it necessary to use boiling water in the recipe?

The boiling water helps to activate the cocoa powder, resulting in a moist and rich cake.