Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake Recipe

If you love the rich flavors of chocolate and the buttery crunch of pecans, this Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is the perfect dessert for you. Combining layers of moist chocolate cake with a luscious pecan filling and topped with a smooth chocolate ganache, this cake is truly a dream for chocolate and nut lovers. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in something sweet, this cake will satisfy every craving. Let's get started with this decadent, show-stopping dessert!

this Recipe

What is a Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake?

A Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is a layered chocolate cake filled with a rich pecan filling and topped with creamy chocolate ganache. The cake has a soft, moist crumb with bits of crunchy, buttery pecans that give it texture and depth. The pecan filling adds a caramelized, nutty sweetness, while the chocolate ganache on top brings a smooth, velvety finish that ties everything together. This cake is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want to impress with a truly indulgent treat.

Ingredients List for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water (or brewed coffee for extra depth)

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whole pecans or chopped pecans for decoration
• Chocolate shavings
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Substitutions and Variations

1. Cake Flavor Variations:
   If you prefer a lighter cake, you can use a vanilla or yellow cake base and keep the pecan filling and chocolate ganache layers for contrast.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
   Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour to make this cake gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients, like the cocoa powder, are also gluten-free.
3. Coffee or Espresso Flavor:
   Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the hot water or brewed coffee to intensify the chocolate flavor.
4. Nut-Free Version:
   If you have a nut allergy, you can omit the pecans and use caramel or toffee bits in the filling for a similar sweet, gooey texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your 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, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed (or whisking by hand) until just combined.
5. Slowly pour in the hot water (or coffee), stirring constantly. The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist and tender cake.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
4. Let the pecan filling cool for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken as it cools but should still be spreadable.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes.
4. Whisk the chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter if using, for extra shine.
5. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake layers are completely cool, level the tops with a serrated knife if needed.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the pecan filling evenly over the top.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
4. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect. Use an offset spatula to smooth it out if needed.
5. Garnish the cake with whole or chopped pecans, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

This Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake starts with moist chocolate cake layers, followed by a rich and buttery pecan filling, and is finished with a smooth chocolate ganache. The cake layers are baked first, then cooled before assembling with the pecan filling and topping with a glossy ganache. The result is a decadent cake that combines the perfect balance of textures and flavors, with rich chocolate and crunchy pecans in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter:
   Mixing the cake batter too much after adding the dry ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the gluten in the flour.
2. Not Cooling the Filling Enough:
   Make sure the pecan filling has cooled slightly before spreading it on the cake. If it’s too hot, it may run off the sides or make the cake layers unstable.
3. Skipping the Leveling Step:
   If the cake layers are domed, make sure to level them before assembling. This will help the cake stack evenly and prevent it from leaning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

This cake is best served at room temperature to allow the ganache and pecan filling to soften slightly. Each slice should reveal beautiful layers of chocolate cake and pecan filling, topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

• Whole Pecans: Garnish the cake with whole pecans placed around the top edge for an elegant look.
• Chocolate Shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate curls or shavings and sprinkle them over the ganache for a professional finish.
• Caramel Drizzle: For extra richness, drizzle caramel sauce over the ganache before serving.

Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake Recipe Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients:
  Ensure the eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth, well-mixed batter that bakes evenly.
• Let the Cake Layers Cool Completely:
  If the cake layers are even slightly warm, they could cause the pecan filling or ganache to melt, making assembly difficult.
• Refrigerate Before Slicing:
  For clean, even slices, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting. This will firm up the ganache and filling, making it easier to slice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes! You can bake the cake layers and make the pecan filling up to a day in advance. Store the cake layers wrapped tightly at room temperature and the filling in the refrigerator. Assemble the cake just before serving.
2. How do I store leftover cake?
   Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, let the cake come to room temperature before serving to soften the ganache.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
   Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before assembling for up to 2 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw them at room temperature before assembling the cake.
4. What if my ganache is too thick?
   If your ganache thickens too much before spreading, warm it gently in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each, until it reaches a pourable consistency.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate and pecan lovers alike. With its moist chocolate cake layers, rich pecan filling, and velvety chocolate ganache, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this cake delivers on flavor and presentation. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a slice of pure dessert bliss!

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