Dreamy Chocolate Pecan Cake Recipe: Sweet Homemade Bliss

Chocolate lovers find pure bliss in this decadent chocolate pecan dream cake that melts hearts instantly.

Sweet aromas waft through kitchens, promising indulgent moments ahead.

Pecans add delightful crunch and nutty depth to every tender slice.

Rich chocolate layers create a luxurious canvas for incredible flavor combinations.

Baking enthusiasts will adore how simple ingredients transform into an extraordinary dessert experience.

Smooth ganache drizzled between moist cake layers ensures pure culinary magic happens.

You might want to clear your schedule – this cake demands full attention and appreciation.

Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake With Rich Layers

• Unleash Decadent Flavors: A rich chocolate cake combined with nutty pecans creates an irresistible taste experience that will wow every dessert lover.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: This showstopping cake comes together with straightforward steps, making it perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations without requiring advanced baking skills.
• Texture Sensation: Creamy chocolate ganache, crunchy pecans, and moist cake layers deliver an incredible multi-dimensional sensory experience that delights taste buds with every single bite.
• Impressive Presentation: The dripping chocolate ganache and elegant pecan garnish transform this dessert into a stunning centerpiece that looks professionally crafted yet surprisingly simple to create.

Ingredients for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation that provides structure to the chocolate cake.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the cake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender cake texture.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and provide moisture and richness.
• Milk: Contributes to the cake's smooth and soft consistency.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures the cake remains moist and tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.

• Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Help the cake rise and create a light, airy texture.
• Salt: Balances and intensifies the cake's flavors.

• Boiling Water: Helps create a thin, smooth batter for a tender cake.

• Brown Sugar: Provides deep caramel-like sweetness to the pecan filling.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth filling.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luxurious texture in the filling.
• Pecans: Offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake.

• Chocolate Chips: The primary ingredient that creates a rich, glossy chocolate coating.
• Heavy Cream: Helps melt and blend the chocolate smoothly.
• Butter: Adds shine and richness to the ganache.

• Pecan Halves: Provides a decorative and crunchy topping.
• Chocolate Shavings: Adds an elegant finishing touch to the cake.

How to Prepare Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

Step 1: Prepare Cake Base

Mix dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, including flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, combine sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.

Gradually blend dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring gently.

Add boiling water to create a thin, silky batter.

Pour batter into two greased 9-inch round cake pans.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

Check doneness with a toothpick.

Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Step 2: Craft Luscious Pecan Filling

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream

Stir continuously until mixture thickens and becomes glossy.

Remove from heat and blend in vanilla extract.

Fold chopped pecans into the warm mixture.

Let filling cool completely before using.

Step 3: Whip Luxurious Chocolate Ganache

Warm heavy cream in a small saucepan until it barely simmers.

Pour hot cream over chocolate chips.

Let sit for 2-3 minutes.

Stir in butter until mixture becomes smooth and shiny.

Allow ganache to cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble Magnificent Cake

Position first cake layer on serving plate.

Spread pecan filling evenly across the surface.

Carefully place second cake layer on top.

Pour chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

Decorate with pecan halves and chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

Tips to Perfect Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

• Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cake batter for an incredibly soft, tender crumb that stays moist longer.
• Lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and bring out a deeper, richer taste profile.
• Let ganache cool for 10-15 minutes before pouring to achieve the ideal dripping consistency without making a messy cake surface.
• Ensure eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature to create a smoother, more evenly mixed cake batter that rises beautifully.
• Line cake pans with parchment paper circles after greasing to guarantee a seamless cake release without any sticking.

Flavor Variations for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Pecan Cake: Swap wheat flour with almond or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring the same delectable chocolate flavor while accommodating gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan Chocolate Pecan Dream: Replace eggs with flax eggs, use coconut milk instead of dairy milk, swap butter with vegan butter alternatives, and use dairy-free chocolate chips for ganache.
• Nutty Alternative Cake: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, creating a different nutty profile while maintaining the rich chocolate essence of the original recipe.
• Low-Sugar Version: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of sugar, incorporate sugar-free dark chocolate chips, and reduce overall sweetness without compromising taste.

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

• Decadent Dessert Companions: Rich chocolate red wine pairs beautifully with this cake's intense chocolate flavor.
• Elegant Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside a smooth espresso or cappuccino to enhance the nutty pecan notes.
• Texture-Rich Topping Adventure: Sprinkle extra toasted pecans and dark chocolate curls around the cake's base for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Creamy Complement: Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or bourbon-infused whipped cream for a luxurious contrast to the cake's deep chocolate profile.

Storage Recommendations for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

• Store covered cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep away from strong-smelling foods.
• Wrap individual cake slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Store in freezer for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Keep cake at room temperature for 1-2 days if serving soon. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying.
• Warm individual slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, place slice on baking sheet and warm in preheated 300F oven for 5-7 minutes until slightly heated through.

FAQs

• What makes the pecan filling so special?

The filling combines melted butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream, creating a rich, caramel-like sauce that’s enhanced by the crunch of chopped pecans, adding depth and texture to the cake.

• Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to 2 days. Prepare the filling and ganache when you’re ready to assemble the cake.

• Is this cake difficult to make for a beginner baker?

Not at all. While it looks impressive, the recipe follows straightforward steps. The key is to carefully follow each component and not overmix the cake batter.

Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Rich chocolate pecan dream cake blends Southern charm with indulgent dessert perfection. Pecans and chocolate create a luxurious harmony that delights senses and offers pure comfort.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Liquid and Fat Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (for filling)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for ganache)

Garnish:

• Pecan halves
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cake foundation by meticulously sifting dry ingredients in a spacious mixing vessel. Whisk together wet components in a separate bowl, creating a silky emulsion. Gradually incorporate dry mixture into wet ingredients, stirring gently until just integrated. Introduce boiling water to transform batter into a luxurious, fluid consistency.
2. Carefully distribute batter into two greased 9-inch round pans, ensuring even coverage. Position in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Validate doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should emerge pristine. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transition to cooling racks.
3. Craft the pecan filling by melting butter over medium heat. Introduce brown sugar, stirring until completely dissolved. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens dramatically. Remove from heat, infuse with vanilla essence, and gently fold in chopped pecans. Let the filling cool to room temperature.
4. Create chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream until it reaches a gentle simmer. Pour over chocolate chips and allow to rest for 2-3 minutes. Incorporate butter and whisk until achieving a glossy, smooth texture. Allow ganache to cool slightly.
5. Assemble the cake by positioning the first layer on a elegant serving plate. Generously spread pecan filling across the surface. Carefully place second cake layer on top. Elegantly pour chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing delectable drips to cascade down the sides. Embellish with pecan halves and delicate chocolate shavings for a stunning presentation.

Notes

• Choose dark cocoa powder for richer, deeper chocolate flavor that intensifies the cake’s decadence.
• Replace dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly version without compromising texture.
• Toast pecans briefly before chopping to enhance their nutty, caramel-like undertones and add extra crunch.
• Ensure all ingredients are room temperature for smoother batter and more even cake texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 386 kcal
• Sugar: 33 g
• Sodium: 168 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg