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
Scale
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