Chocolate Pecan Cake

Chocolate Pecan Cake is a decadent, rich dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate with the buttery crunch of pecans. This indulgent cake features moist layers of chocolate cake, filled and topped with toasted pecans that add a delightful texture and nuttiness to every bite. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat for any chocolate lover, this cake is easy to make yet impressive to serve. Paired with a smooth chocolate ganache or dusted with powdered sugar, it’s a slice of pure indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Chocolate Ganache (optional):

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the toasted pecans.
5. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. 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, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the ganache (if using): In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
7. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of ganache on top. Add the second cake layer and pour the remaining ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with additional chopped pecans.

This Chocolate Pecan Cake is rich, moist, and filled with the delicious flavors of chocolate and toasted pecans, making it a perfect dessert for any celebration!