Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte

Name: Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon hazelnut liqueur (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte, a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:21:49.370Z

This Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee, enhanced by the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. It's a delightful treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Symphony of Flavors

The Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte is more than just a dessert; it's a journey of flavors that dance on your palate. The rich chocolate flavor, enhanced by the subtle bitterness of cocoa powder, is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of both granulated and brown sugars. This unique combination creates a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and indulgent. Adding espresso powder elevates the chocolate, making it even more decadent and inviting, perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

What truly sets this torte apart is the delightful hint of fresh orange zest. This unexpected twist brightens the rich chocolate, creating a complex flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests. The aroma of orange mingling with chocolate is simply irresistible, making each bite a memorable experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this torte will not disappoint.

A Textural Delight

The creamy texture of the Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte is another reason to fall in love with this recipe. Thanks to the combination of melted butter and eggs, the torte achieves a silky richness that melts in your mouth. Each slice is moist and tender, offering a luxurious experience that feels indulgent yet comforting. The addition of toasted hazelnuts not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall flavor, making each bite a textural delight.

When you pour the smooth ganache over the cooled torte, you add another layer of creaminess that complements the dense, fudgy base. The glossy finish of the ganache not only looks stunning but also contributes to the overall mouthfeel, making every forkful a luscious treat that is hard to resist. This combination of textures—rich, creamy, and crunchy—ensures that your dessert is both satisfying and sophisticated.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this torte fits the bill. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine, elevating your dining experience to new heights. Its elegant presentation also makes it a show-stopping centerpiece that is sure to impress your guests.

Additionally, this torte can be easily adapted for different dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, simply replace the cocoa powder with a gluten-free alternative. You can also experiment with different nuts or flavorings to suit your taste. The Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte is not just a recipe; it's a canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start preparing your torte.

For the Torte

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
4 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon hazelnut liqueur (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious torte.

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, espresso powder, and salt. Mix well.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until fully combined. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.

Bake the Torte

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Ganache

While the torte is baking, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth. Add hazelnut liqueur if desired.

Cool and Assemble

Once the torte is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Pour the ganache over the cooled torte and let it set.

Enjoy your delicious Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte!

Serving Suggestions

To truly elevate your Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the whipped topping balances the rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors, creating a delightful contrast. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional toasted hazelnuts or a dusting of cocoa powder on top just before serving for a gorgeous presentation.

Pairing this dessert with a well-crafted cup of coffee can enhance the mocha flavor, making it a perfect end to any meal. Alternatively, a glass of dessert wine or a rich port can complement the chocolate notes beautifully, turning your dessert into a complete dining experience.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is often unlikely given how delicious this torte is!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the torte, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to maintain its rich, creamy texture.

For even longer preservation, you can freeze the torte. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving. This way, you can indulge in this decadent treat even weeks after baking!

Recipe Variations

While the classic Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte is a showstopper on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to make it your own. Experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a unique twist on flavor and texture. You can also swap out the hazelnut liqueur in the ganache for other flavors, such as orange liqueur or coffee liqueur, to complement the chocolate.

For a lighter version, consider making a flourless chocolate torte by omitting the cocoa powder altogether and using high-quality dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dessert to your liking while still enjoying the indulgent experience that the Capricorn Mocha Hazelnut Torte promises.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this torte in advance?

Yes, you can bake the torte a day ahead and add the ganache just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this torte?

This torte pairs well with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.