Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes with Caramel Chocolate Ganache Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract; ¾ cup (100g) roasted hazelnuts, finely ground; 1 ¼ cups (180g) all-purpose flour; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup (120ml) whole milk; 10 oz (284g) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped; 2 tbsp (30ml) rich salted caramel sauce; 1 cup (237ml) 35% heavy whipping cream; Pinch of salt; Salted caramel sauce for drizzling; Chopped roasted hazelnuts for sprinkling

If you have a craving that demands a rich, nutty, and utterly decadent treat, the Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes with Caramel Chocolate Ganache Frosting Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. These cupcakes marry the deep flavors of roasted hazelnuts and silky chocolate in a tender cake, topped with a luscious caramel-infused chocolate ganache frosting that’s smooth, fluffy, and ready to impress every single time. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this recipe delivers an irresistible harmony of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a set of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are two clear glass bowls with white flour and white sugar, one larger bowl with crushed nuts that are light brown with a crumbly texture, and a small black bottle near the center. There are three whole eggs, two brown and one white, placed together in the middle. A small glass bowl contains yellow butter, another has a golden liquid likely honey or oil, and a third small bowl holds white powder and a pinch of brown spice. Lastly, there's a glass container with white cream or milk. All items are arranged separately and clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind these cupcakes lies in a surprisingly simple selection of ingredients, each chosen to build the perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and that subtle crunch hazelnuts bring. With basics like butter and flour paying their part, the roasted hazelnuts and salted caramel add that signature delightful twist you won’t forget.

6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter: Provides rich creaminess and helps achieve a tender crumb.
2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle depth to the cake’s texture.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
3 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding structure and richness.
1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and hazelnut notes with aromatic warmth.
¾ cup (100g) roasted hazelnuts, finely ground: The star ingredient that lends a nutty crunch and flavor.
1 ¼ cups (180g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cupcakes’ fluffiness and body.
1 ½ tsp baking powder: Ensures the cupcakes rise to a perfect lightness.
½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
½ cup (120ml) whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
10 oz (284g) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped: For that velvety caramel chocolate ganache frosting.
2 tbsp (30ml) Rich Salted Caramel Sauce: Adds a luscious, buttery sweetness with a hint of saltiness.
1 cup (237ml) 35% heavy whipping cream: Whipped into the ganache for that fluffy frosting texture.
Pinch of salt: Elevates the caramel chocolate ganache and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes with Caramel Chocolate Ganache Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Hazelnuts and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. Roasting the hazelnuts is a must — it transforms them from raw and subtle into gloriously fragrant, golden nuts with an aromatic punch that lifts the entire cupcake. After roasting for about 8 to 10 minutes, rub off the skins using a tea towel to avoid bitterness and pulse them finely in a food processor for that perfect texture.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, beat the butter, sugar, olive oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and luxuriously creamy. Each addition matters here; the olive oil sneaks in moisture without weighing down the batter. Add eggs one at a time, whipping each in thoroughly to achieve a fluffy texture that’s almost white in color. Fold in your finely ground hazelnuts for that unmistakable nutty touch.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Make Smooth Batter

Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt for even rising and a delicate crumb. Add half of this dry mix to the wet mixture, then pour in the milk slowly while mixing until just smooth. Finish by mixing in the remaining dry ingredients carefully — over mixing can toughen your cupcakes, so go easy on blending.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the dreamy batter evenly between the cupcake liners, filling them about three-quarters full to make room for rising. Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Don’t rush this step; perfectly baked cupcakes have a tender crumb and spring back gently to the touch.

Step 5: Craft the Caramel Chocolate Ganache Frosting

This part is pure indulgence. Place chopped semisweet chocolate and the salted caramel sauce into a bowl. Heat heavy cream on the stove until it just simmers, then pour over the chocolate mixture. Let it sit, then stir gently until glossy and smooth. Add a pinch of salt to brighten and deepen the flavors. Chill until thickened to a pudding-like consistency, then beat lightly until it becomes fluffy and ready for frosting.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Once your cupcakes are fully cooled, generously frost them with that heavenly caramel chocolate ganache. For a perfect finishing touch, drizzle extra salted caramel sauce atop each cupcake and sprinkle with some coarsely chopped roasted hazelnuts. The textures and flavors will leave everyone swooning.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes with Caramel Chocolate Ganache Frosting Recipe

The image shows a cupcake with three main layers. The bottom layer is a light, fluffy beige cake. On top is a thick dark brown chocolate frosting layer that looks creamy and smooth. The frosting is topped with small chopped nuts and a drizzle of shiny caramel sauce, with a whole hazelnut sitting on top. The cupcake liner is white and crinkled, partially open to reveal the cake inside. Around the cupcake, there are scattered hazelnuts on a dark brown surface. In the background, two more cupcakes with similar frosting and nut toppings sit on a white plate, on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cupcakes shine beautifully on their own, but a little extra love can elevate them for special occasions. Consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder or edible gold flakes for sparkle. Toasted hazelnut halves on top add crunch and a rustic look, while a swirl of whipped cream can introduce a soft contrast to the rich ganache.

Side Dishes

Pair your cupcakes with a rich cup of espresso or a velvety hot chocolate to amplify the chocolate and hazelnut notes. For a fresh balance, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of mixed berries — their tartness cuts through the cupcakes’ sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand with layers of fresh flowers or hazelnut branches to create a stunning centerpiece. You could also serve them in rustic paper cups tied with a ribbon for an extra charming touch. For more casual moments, stack them on a wooden board alongside jars of caramel sauce and chocolate shavings so guests can customize their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep these cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The ganache frosting feels just as decadent chilled, and the flavors continue to meld and deepen, making every bite a delight.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance or save the leftovers, freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 2 months. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. For the frosting, the ganache can also be frozen separately, but it’s best to whip it fresh for optimum fluffiness after thawing.

Reheating

Before serving refrigerated or frozen cupcakes, let them come up to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving as the ganache can soften unevenly. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bring to room temperature for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of hazelnuts?

Absolutely! While hazelnuts provide a signature flavor, toasted almonds or pecans can be a tasty alternative. Just roast and grind them similarly to maintain texture and flavor balance.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes vegan?

This particular recipe relies on dairy and eggs for richness and structure, but you could experiment with plant-based butters, non-dairy milk, and flax eggs to make a vegan version. The texture will differ, but the flavor can still be delightful.

How do I know when the frosting is the right consistency?

The caramel chocolate ganache frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape but still soft and fluffy when beaten. It’s best to chill and stir frequently during chilling to monitor and avoid over-thickening or graininess.

Can I make the cupcakes gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the cupcakes tender and structured.

What’s the best way to get hazelnut skins off after roasting?

Wrap the warm roasted hazelnuts in a clean tea towel and rub vigorously. The skins should come off easily, leaving you with beautifully toasted nuts that won’t add bitterness to your cupcakes.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough trying this Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes with Caramel Chocolate Ganache Frosting Recipe if you want to impress with a bake that’s both approachable and utterly indulgent. From the first bite, you’ll experience a cozy depth of hazelnuts paired with silky chocolate and sticky caramel that feels both luxurious and heartwarming. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become your go-to treat for sharing a little joy or simply treating yourself. So preheat your oven and prepare to fall in love with these cupcakes!