Rich Chocolate Pecan Cake

Description:

This Rich Chocolate Pecan Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich, deep flavors of chocolate with the nutty crunch of pecans. The moist chocolate cake is made even more indulgent with layers of creamy frosting, giving it a luxurious texture and taste. Topped with toasted pecans, this cake is perfect for any celebration or special occasion, adding a touch of elegance and a lot of flavor to your dessert table.

Origin:

Chocolate and pecans are a classic pairing often found in Southern desserts in the United States, particularly in pecan pie and other indulgent cakes. This cake draws on that tradition, combining the flavors of chocolate and pecans into a layered, festive dessert.

Ingredients (Serves 8-10):

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups
• Cocoa powder: ½ cup (unsweetened)
• Baking soda: 1 tsp
• Baking powder: ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup
• Butter: ½ cup (softened)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Whole milk: 1 cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Boiling water: ½ cup
• Pecans: 1 cup (chopped and toasted)

For the Frosting:

• Butter: ½ cup (softened)
• Powdered sugar: 2 ½ cups
• Cocoa powder: ¼ cup (unsweetened)
• Heavy cream: 2-4 tbsp (for desired consistency)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Salt: ¼ tsp
• Pecans: 1 cup (toasted and chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour in the boiling water and stir gently until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).
7. Fold in the toasted and chopped pecans.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, alternating with the heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
3. Garnish the top of the cake with additional toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.

Step 4: Serve

1. Allow the cake to set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing to ensure the frosting firms up a bit.
2. Serve and enjoy this rich, indulgent treat!

Tips for Success:

• Pecans Tip: Toasting the pecans brings out their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to both the cake and the frosting. To toast them, simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Cake Consistency Tip: The batter for this cake is quite thin, which results in a moist and tender texture. Don’t be alarmed—it will bake into a perfect cake.
• Frosting Tip: If the frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired spreadable consistency.

Recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: This cake is delicious on its own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of rich red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a dessert wine such as Port can complement the deep chocolate and nutty flavors.

Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 slice):

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Sugar: 34 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 160 mg

This Rich Chocolate Pecan Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s craving. The combination of chocolate and pecans creates an unforgettable flavor, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Enjoy every bite!