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Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake Recipe

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  • Author: Mariem
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1012 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Indulge in this Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake, a rich and moist chocolate cake layered with creamy chocolate ganache and topped with toasted pecans. Perfect for celebrations or a luxurious dessert, this showstopping cake is a treat for any chocolate lover.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Ganache Filling and Topping:

  • 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish:

  • 1 cup (100g) toasted pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Cake Batter:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and well combined.
    • Gradually stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
  • Bake the Cake:
    • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
    • Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Make the Ganache:
    • Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
    • Stir until smooth and glossy, then mix in the vanilla extract. Let cool slightly to thicken.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of ganache on top. Sprinkle with half the toasted pecans.
    • Add the second cake layer and spread ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
  • Garnish:
    • Sprinkle the remaining toasted pecans on top. Let the ganache set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve:
    • Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk!

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the ganache.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.