Go Back
–+ servings

Nutella Smith Island Cake Recipe

This Nutella Smith Island Cake is a showstopping, decadent dessert featuring nine delicate layers of yellow cake, each separated by a rich Nutella-infused chocolate icing. Perfect for special occasions, this dessert is a delightful twist on the classic Smith Island Cake, enhanced with the irresistible flavor of Nutella.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 39 minutes
1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 1 8-inch cake

Equipment

  • 3 (8-inch) round cake pans
  • Parchment paper
  • Stand mixer with whisk attachment
  • Offset spatula
  • Large cooling rack
  • Medium saucepan

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk at room temperature

For the Nutella Icing:

  • 6 tablespoons 3/4 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup milk any dairy milk works
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups Nutella

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cake Layers:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line the bottoms of three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly coat them with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, mix the butter and vegetable oil on low speed until combined. Gradually increase to medium-high speed and continue mixing until the mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes.
  • Slowly add the granulated sugar while the mixer is running, continuing to beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow, about 2 minutes.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk in three additions, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  • Use a 1-cup measure to portion 1 cup of batter into each prepared cake pan. Spread the batter evenly to the edges using a spatula. The layers will be thin.
  • Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, until the cakes are lightly golden and spring back when touched.
  • Cool the cakes in the pans for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat this process until you have nine layers.

Make the Nutella Icing:

  • In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the granulated sugar, milk, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves (about 3-5 minutes).
  • Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for one minute. Remove from heat and stir in the Nutella until smooth.
  • Allow the icing to cool to room temperature, about 45 minutes.

Assemble the Cake:

  • Place a cooling rack over a sheet pan to catch any drips. Set the first cake layer on the rack and spread 1/4 cup of the Nutella icing evenly over the top.
  • Repeat this process, stacking the cake layers and spreading icing between each one. Ensure the icing is spread evenly to the edges.
  • For the final layer, pour the remaining icing over the top and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  • Let the cake set for about one hour before carefully transferring it to a serving plate.

Notes

  • Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before stacking and icing them to prevent the icing from melting.
  • If the icing begins to harden while assembling, warm it slightly for easier spreading.
  • For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate Nutella.
Keyword chocolate layer cake, dessert recipes, multi-layer cake, Nutella cake recipe, Nutella dessert recipe, Nutella frosting, Smith Island Cake
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!