Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake
Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. This velvety, rich cake combines the deep flavors of sweet cocoa with the crunch of freshly chopped pecans, creating a dessert that is both comforting and decadent. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture and silky frosting. With a straightforward Recipe and easy Step-by-Step instructions, you’ll find that creating this masterpiece in your kitchen is an achievable delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake! First and foremost, the simple preparation ensures you don’t need to be a professional baker to achieve stunning results. With only a few essential ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it a perfect option for last-minute gatherings or birthday parties.
The rich chocolate flavor paired with the nutty pecans will surely make this cake a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both young and old. It’s also incredibly versatile; whether you serve it at a family dinner or share it with friends, it brings people together over a mutual appreciation for chocolatey goodness. Plus, the chocolate ganache and pecan frosting provides a deliciously creamy texture that elevates each bite.
Ingredients
To prepare your Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake, creating a soft texture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly, creating a deliciously tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Infuses that deep chocolate flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise, giving it a light and airy feel.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda – Works in tandem with baking powder for optimal leavening.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk – Keeps the cake moist and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Contributes to the cake’s tenderness.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Offers a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
- 1 cup boiling water – This unusual ingredient helps to bloom the cocoa for a more intense chocolate flavor.
For the Chocolate Pecan Frosting, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a creamy and luscious frosting.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolate richness.
- 5 cups powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup whole milk – Keeps the frosting velvety.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds aromatic notes to the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans – Brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For garnishing, you’ll want:
- Whole pecans
- Chocolate shavings
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure that your cakes come out perfectly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination will form the foundation of your chocolate cake.
Next, add the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry mix. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until well-blended. Now, pour in the boiling water—don’t worry about the batter’s thinness; it will result in a moist cake. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes; if it comes out clean, they’re done! Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Pecan Frosting
While your cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and cocoa powder together until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined. Don’t forget to stir in the vanilla extract and the chopped pecans for that crunchy pecan flavor. This frosting will give your cake a rich and satisfying topping.
3. Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate and generously spread a layer of frosting on top. Gently place the second layer on top and frost the top and the sides of the cake with the remaining chocolate pecan frosting. The visual appeal of a well-frosted cake adds to the overall festive mood.
4. Garnish
To take this delightful cake over the top, garnish with whole pecans and chocolate shavings. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds an aesthetic touch that makes this cake look as extraordinary as it tastes.
Tips & Tricks
For the best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a uniform batter. Additionally, avoid over-mixing the batter, as this can produce a denser cake. Lastly, if you want even more pecan flavor, feel free to toast the chopped pecans before incorporating them into the frosting!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake is perfect for any occasion, be it birthdays, anniversaries, or casual family gatherings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Pair it with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For an adult-friendly twist, it complements dark espresso beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Each slice of Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake (based on a standard 12-slice cake) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 60 grams
- Protein: 6 grams
- Sugar: 35 grams
Balance is key; enjoy this cake as an occasional treat, savoring each bite responsibly!
Storing Tips & Variations
To store your cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to store it longer, freeze the cakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. For a variation, consider substituting chopped nuts with crushed candy bars or using different frostings, like cream cheese or caramel.
Conclusion
Creating a Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake is an experience of joy and nostalgia. With its rich chocolatey flavor complemented by the crunch of pecans, this cake is sure to win over the hearts—and taste buds—of everyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to make this delightful dessert, and when you do, please share your thoughts and photos. You’ll inspire others to indulge in the sweet joys of baking!
FAQs
1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance, store them wrapped in plastic, and frost them the day of serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts, or omit the nuts altogether if necessary.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute, but note that the texture might be slightly different.
4. How can I make the frosting vegan?
Use plant-based butter and substitute milk with almond milk or coconut milk to create a delicious vegan frosting.
5. What if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it may be due to over-baking or measuring the flour incorrectly. Be sure to check the baking time and method for accuracy next time!
Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure to the cake, creating a soft texture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake perfectly, creating a deliciously tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Infuses that deep chocolate flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise, giving it a light and airy feel.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Works in tandem with baking powder for optimal leavening.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk Keeps the cake moist and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil Contributes to the cake’s tenderness.
- 2 large eggs Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Offers a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
- 1 cup boiling water Helps to bloom the cocoa for a more intense chocolate flavor.
For the Chocolate Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Creates a creamy and luscious frosting.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Enhances the chocolate richness.
- 5 cups powdered sugar Provides sweetness and a smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup whole milk Keeps the frosting velvety.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds aromatic notes to the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans Brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For Garnishing
- to taste whole pecans
- to taste chocolate shavings
Instructions
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry mix and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour in boiling water gradually, then divide the batter evenly between prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking with a toothpick until it comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Pecan Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and cocoa powder until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
Assemble the Cake
- Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides with remaining frosting.
Garnish
- Garnish with whole pecans and chocolate shavings to enhance flavor and aesthetics.