If you’re looking for a dessert that’s the perfect combination of rich, chocolaty goodness and the buttery crunch of pecans, this Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is the one for you. With layers of moist cake, gooey frosting, and a delightful nutty topping, it’s a slice of heaven that will wow your family and friends.
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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake
- Rich and Decadent: Every bite is packed with deep chocolate flavor balanced by the toasted pecans.
- Easy to Make: It’s impressive enough for special occasions yet simple enough for an indulgent weekend dessert.
- Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat!
Ingredients for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk or almond milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup hot water
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula
How to Make Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the hot water until the batter is thin and well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake, smoothing the top and sides.
Step 5: Add the Pecan Topping
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the top of the cake.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and add chocolate chips if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the perfect dessert moment.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Level Your Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim the cake layers for a more polished look.
- Customize It: Add a layer of caramel or chocolate ganache between the cake layers for added richness.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts make a great substitute if you prefer.
Q2: How can I make this cake dairy-free?
A: Use almond or soy milk in the batter and frosting, and substitute dairy-free butter.
Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost before serving for the freshest taste.
Conclusion: A Slice of Bliss
This Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is everything you could want in a dessert—rich, chocolaty, nutty, and utterly irresistible. Whether it’s for a celebration or a quiet night in, this cake will steal the show.
Did you try this recipe? Share your photos and leave a review! We’d love to hear how it turned out.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Enjoy every decadent bite of this delightful cake!
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Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s the perfect combination of rich, chocolaty goodness and the buttery crunch of pecans, this Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is the one for you. With layers of moist cake, gooey frosting, and a delightful nutty topping, it’s a slice of heaven that will wow your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk or almond milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup hot water
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the hot water until the batter is thin and well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake, smoothing the top and sides.
Step 5: Add the Pecan Topping
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the top of the cake.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and add chocolate chips if desired.
Notes
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Level Your Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim the cake layers for a more polished look.
- Customize It: Add a layer of caramel or chocolate ganache between the cake layers for added richness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American
