Craving a decadent treat but short on time? These irresistible no-bake chocolate hazelnut cakes will satisfy your sweet tooth in minutes. With just three simple ingredients and zero baking required, you’ll create soft, intensely flavored little cakes with a delightful contrast of textures. Perfect for unexpected guests or when you need a quick dessert fix, this naturally gluten-free recipe transforms basic pantry staples into an elegant treat that tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery.
Ingredients
- 200g roasted hazelnuts (7 oz) + extra for coating
- 130g sweetened vanilla yogurt (½ cup + 1 tbsp)
- 50g unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the hazelnuts: If your hazelnuts aren’t already roasted, toast them in a dry pan for 3-4 minutes or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-6 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Blend the hazelnuts: Place the roasted hazelnuts in a food processor or blender. Pulse until you achieve a coarse powder with small pieces for texture – avoid over-processing into a smooth paste.
- Add cocoa powder: Mix in the unsweetened cocoa powder with a spoon, distributing it evenly throughout the hazelnut powder.
- Incorporate yogurt: Add the sweetened vanilla yogurt to the mixture. Using the back of a spoon, press and fold the ingredients together until the mixture becomes compact and holds together well.
- Shape the cakes: Take tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and gently roll between your palms to form smooth balls. Flatten each ball slightly to create small, thick cake shapes.
- Coat and finish: Roll each cake in finely ground hazelnuts for an elegant finish and extra flavor contrast.
- Serve or chill: Enjoy immediately for a soft, tender texture, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up for easier handling.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 12-15 small cakes
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days
Nutrition (per cake): Approximately 85 calories, 3g protein, 6g fat, 5g carbs, 2g fiber
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
These no-bake chocolate hazelnut yogurt cakes offer the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Hazelnuts provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, while the yogurt adds probiotics and calcium. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, requires no special equipment, and contains no refined flour or artificial additives. The combination of cocoa and roasted hazelnuts delivers antioxidants and heart-healthy nutrients, making this treat a guilt-free pleasure. Plus, the quick preparation time and simple ingredient list make it accessible for any skill level, proving that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated to be absolutely delicious.