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.