🇭🇺 Austro-Hungarian Hazelnut Torte

Austro-Hungarian hazelnut torte is a beautiful old-fashioned dessert inspired by the rich baking traditions of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. It features a tender hazelnut sponge, a smooth coffee or chocolate buttercream, and a delicate finish of toasted hazelnuts.

Elegant enough for holidays and celebrations, yet surprisingly simple to assemble, this torte is especially delicious when allowed to rest overnight so the flavors and textures come together.

🌰 Ingredients

For the Hazelnut Cake

• 200 g (about 2 cups) finely ground hazelnuts
• 150 g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 60 g (½ cup) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

For the Filling

• 200 g (7 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 120 g (1 cup) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons strong cooled coffee
• 1–2 tablespoons milk, if needed

For Decoration

• ½ cup toasted chopped hazelnuts
• Whole hazelnuts, optional
• A little grated chocolate, optional