If you have a sweet tooth and love the rich, creamy charm of Nutella, then this Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe will instantly become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine a dense, buttery pound cake with luscious ribbons of Nutella weaving through every bite, giving you both the comforting texture of a classic cake and the irresistible flavor of chocolate-hazelnut spread. This cake is perfect for afternoon tea, a special dessert, or just a little treat to brighten up your day. Once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on making it over and over again to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a thick, creamy batter with a light beige color and small darker specks evenly mixed throughout. The batter is swirled smoothly inside a clear glass bowl, showing its soft texture. A light blue silicone spatula with a wooden handle is partially dipped into the batter on the right side, creating gentle swirls and holding some batter on its blade. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe plays a simple but crucial role in building that perfect texture and rich flavor. From the creamy butter that gives it moisture, to the baking powder for just the right rise, each one enhances the cake in its own special way.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body for the cake, making it tender yet sturdy enough to hold the Nutella swirls.
Baking powder: Ensures the pound cake rises beautifully without becoming too fluffy or cakey.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth that pairs effortlessly with the chocolate-hazelnut notes.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors in the cake.
Unsalted butter: The backbone of this pound cake, delivering rich moisture and a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while also helping with the soft, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
Full-fat sour cream: Adds a slight tang and keeps the pound cake moist and tender.
Pure vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors with its sweet aroma and depth.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s tender crumb.
Nutella: The star of the show that creates those gorgeous swirls and brings that familiar hazelnut goodness.

How to Make Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan all over with nonstick spray, then line the sides with parchment paper for easy removal and to prevent burning. Lightly grease the parchment paper as well for a smooth release later. This small step guarantees perfectly shaped slices every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined. Setting this mixture aside keeps the process smooth and prevents over-mixing later, which is key for a perfect crumb.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, which takes about one minute. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into your batter, ensuring your pound cake isn’t dense or heavy.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth. While the mixer runs at medium speed, add each egg one at a time, beating well after each addition. This careful incorporation contributes to the cake’s delicate texture and rich flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Batter

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and beat on low speed just until combined. Avoid over-mixing here to maintain that tender crumb. Fold the batter gently a few times with a spatula to ensure everything is fully incorporated, especially scraping the bottom so no pockets remain.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl the Nutella

Spoon about one-third of the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out with a small offset spatula. Spoon half of the Nutella over the batter and gently spread it with the back of a spoon, keeping it away from the edges for clean swirls. Add another third of the batter, spread the remaining Nutella, and finish with the last portion of batter. Using a knife or a skewer, swirl the ingredients gently to create beautiful marbled ribbons without over-mixing and losing the effect.

Step 7: Bake with Care

Bake your Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe for 65 to 80 minutes, checking around the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent the cake loosely with aluminum foil to protect it while it finishes baking.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for one hour before carefully removing it from the pan and placing it directly on the rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and share this delicious Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe with anyone who loves a delightful homemade treat.

How to Serve Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

A close-up view of a slice of light brown cake with a dark brown swirl pattern inside, placed in the center of a white round plate with wavy edges. The cake slice has a soft texture with visible dark chocolate or cinnamon swirls running through the middle. Around this main plate, there are partial views of other similar white plates holding slices of the same cake. In the top part of the image, a small white bowl holds bright red strawberries with green leaves. The background is a white marbled surface with some crumbs scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate the look and flavor of your Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe beautifully. Fresh berries or a few chopped toasted hazelnuts add a lovely crunch and complement the Nutella’s nutty essence perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. A side of fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced bananas will add a fresh and vibrant contrast that feels just right.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve slices of this pound cake with a small bowl of warm Nutella on the side for dipping. You can also transform it into a brunch star by layering cake slices with mascarpone and fruit to create a quick trifle. These ideas give your Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe extra flair and surprise that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to one week when stored tightly wrapped or in an airtight container. This means you can bake ahead and still enjoy fresh slices all week long without worry.

Freezing

This pound cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When properly stored, it can last up to three months. Frozen slices are great to pull out for an effortless snack or dessert any time.

Reheating

To refresh the cake after storage or freezing, warm slices briefly in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or pop them into a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10–15 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked softness and enhances the luscious Nutella swirls.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate spread instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! You can substitute Nutella with any chocolate-hazelnut spread or even plain chocolate spread. Just keep in mind the flavor might vary slightly, but the swirl effect and rich taste will still be delightful.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer? Can I make this by hand?

Yes, you can! Using a strong wooden spoon or a hand mixer will work as well. Just be sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly until light and fluffy, as this step is key for the perfect texture.

Is it okay to use cold eggs or butter straight from the fridge?

For the best results, it’s important to use room temperature eggs and butter. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle or not mix properly, which affects the texture of the cake.

Can I turn this pound cake into cupcakes?

You can! Just divide the batter evenly into cupcake liners and bake for about 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick. Keep an eye on the baking time since cupcakes will cook faster than a loaf.

Why does the recipe include sour cream?

Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the pound cake tender and moist for days. It also helps balance the richness of the butter and Nutella for a perfectly harmonious flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Nutella Swirl Pound Cake Recipe is the kind of dessert that makes you want to share a slice with everyone you love. It’s rich, comforting, and surprisingly elegant in its simplicity. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished classic with a Nutella twist. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create a cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like heaven, and the smiles around your table will be priceless.