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Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake Recipe

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This Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake recipe is a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. With moist chocolate cake layers, a creamy pecan filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping, this cake is truly a dream come true for chocolate and nut lovers alike. It’s an elegant and indulgent dessert that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Chocolate Cake:
    • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
    • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 2 cups granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 1 cup hot water or brewed coffee
    • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Pecan Filling:
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/3 cup heavy cream
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
  • For the Chocolate Ganache:
    • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
    • Add eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
    • Gradually add the hot water or coffee while mixing on low speed until smooth (batter will be thin).
    • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Make the Pecan Filling:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Stir in brown sugar and granulated sugar, cooking until the sugar dissolves (about 3 minutes).
    • Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
    • Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans. Let cool before using.
  • Make the Chocolate Ganache:
    • Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer.
    • Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool and thicken slightly.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread the pecan filling evenly over the top.
    • Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
    • Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    • Let the cake sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • For a stronger chocolate flavor, substitute the hot water with brewed coffee.
  • Ensure the pecan filling is completely cooled before assembling to avoid melting the cake layers.
  • Garnish with extra chopped pecans on top of the ganache for added texture.

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