Light Sweet Hazel Treats

Featured in: Soft Savory Nut-Inspired Bakes

Enjoy soft, golden squares that combine the rich, nutty taste of toasted hazelnuts with the delicate sweetness of honey. This light treat features a tender crumb thanks to a gentle mix of flour, ground hazelnuts, butter, honey, and vanilla. Topped with toasted hazelnuts and drizzled with honey, these squares offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Ideal for afternoon tea or as a subtle dessert, they require minimal prep and bake in under half an hour.

Updated on Mon, 08 Dec 2025 08:58:00 GMT
Golden Light Sweet Hazel Treats: Honey-glazed and beautifully cubed hazelnut and honey cake squares. Save to Pinterest
Golden Light Sweet Hazel Treats: Honey-glazed and beautifully cubed hazelnut and honey cake squares. | pecanfield.com

Soft, golden cake squares with the rich flavor of toasted hazelnuts and the delicate sweetness of honey. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a light dessert.

This cake quickly became a family favorite for our afternoon treats and never lasts long!

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups (150 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (60 g) finely ground hazelnuts (lightly toasted), 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 1/2 cup (120 ml) mild honey, 1/3 cup (70 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs room temperature, 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Topping: 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped hazelnuts toasted, 2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)

Instructions

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Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl whisk together flour ground hazelnuts baking powder and salt. Set aside.
Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl cream the softened butter honey and sugar together until light and fluffy about 2 3 minutes.
Step 4:
Beat in the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5:
Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing until just combined. Pour in the milk mix gently then add the remaining dry ingredients. Mix until smooth do not overmix.
Step 6:
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the chopped toasted hazelnuts over the top.
Step 7:
Bake for 22 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden.
Step 8:
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then lift out and transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle the cake with the remaining honey while still slightly warm.
Step 9:
Once completely cool cut into 16 squares and serve.
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Blend soups, smoothies, sauces, and baby food directly in pots for quick, smooth results.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Blend soups, smoothies, sauces, and baby food directly in pots for quick, smooth results.
Check price on Amazon
Savory and sweet view: Warm hazelnut and honey cake squares, a delightful light sweet treat. Save to Pinterest
Savory and sweet view: Warm hazelnut and honey cake squares, a delightful light sweet treat. | pecanfield.com

We always enjoy these squares fresh with a cup of tea during family gatherings.

Required Tools

8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Measuring cups and spoons Rubber spatula Parchment paper Wire rack

Allergen Information

Contains nuts (hazelnuts) eggs milk (dairy) and gluten (wheat). If allergies are present substitute nuts and flour with safe alternatives. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories 155 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 19 g Protein 3 g per serving.

Close-up of baked Light Sweet Hazel Treats: Showing off soft, golden hazelnut cake squares, ready to enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of baked Light Sweet Hazel Treats: Showing off soft, golden hazelnut cake squares, ready to enjoy. | pecanfield.com
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Make fresh homemade yogurt and fermented foods easily for breakfasts, snacks, and recipes.
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These hazelnut and honey cake squares are perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare.

Questions & Answers

Can I substitute almond meal for hazelnuts?

Yes, almond meal can be used as a substitute for hazelnuts while maintaining the moist texture and nutty flavor.

How do I keep the cake squares soft?

Adding 2 tablespoons of sour cream to the batter helps enhance softness and moisture.

What is the best way to toast hazelnuts?

Toast them evenly in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and golden, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

How should the squares be stored?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to three days.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

You can mix the batter ahead of time, but bake it fresh for optimal texture and rise.

Light Sweet Hazel Treats

Golden cake squares highlighting toasted hazelnuts and honey for a sweet, tender finish.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
25 minutes
Total Duration
40 minutes
Created by Michael Allen


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine European

Makes 16 Portions

Diet Preferences Vegetarian Option

What You'll Need

Dry Ingredients

01 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 1/2 cup finely ground toasted hazelnuts
03 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Wet Ingredients

01 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 1/2 cup mild honey
03 1/3 cup granulated sugar
04 2 large eggs, room temperature
05 1/3 cup whole milk
06 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping

01 1/4 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts
02 2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling

How to Make It

Step 01

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for removal.

Step 02

Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, ground toasted hazelnuts, baking powder, and sea salt in a medium bowl; set aside.

Step 03

Cream Butter, Honey, and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, honey, and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 04

Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 05

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add half of the dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix until just combined. Pour in milk, stir gently, then fold in remaining dry ingredients until smooth; avoid overmixing.

Step 06

Prepare for Baking: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared pan; scatter chopped toasted hazelnuts on top.

Step 07

Bake: Bake for 22–25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center is clean and top is golden brown.

Step 08

Cool and Drizzle: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While warm, drizzle with remaining honey.

Step 09

Slice and Serve: Once fully cooled, cut into 16 squares and serve.

Tools Needed

  • 8-inch square baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Allergy Details

Always check your ingredients for allergens and talk to your healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains nuts (hazelnuts), eggs, milk, and gluten (wheat).

Nutrition Facts (per portion)

Provided for general knowledge—ask your doctor for personalized advice.
  • Energy: 155
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Proteins: 3 g