Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Pecan Cake recipe combines rich chocolate flavor with crunchy pecans for a delightful dessert. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.

The cake recipe is simple to follow and results in a moist and flavorful dessert that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Indulgent Chocolate Pecan Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Pecan Cake features layers of moist chocolate cake studded with toasted pecans, all topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 8 people.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
Additional pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.
Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache on top, then place the second layer on top. Pour the remaining ganache over the top and let it drip down the sides.
Garnish: If desired, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top of the ganache. Slice and serve.