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Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

Treat yourself to the decadent indulgence of Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake, a rich and moist chocolate cake layered with a luscious pecan filling and topped with velvety chocolate frosting. Each bite is a delightful combination of nutty crunch and chocolatey bliss, making it a perfect dessert for holidays, celebrations, or any time you crave something extraordinary. Garnished with toasted pecans for an irresistible finish, this cake is a true dream come true for dessert lovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Cake:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
    • ¾ cup cocoa powder
    • 2 tsp baking soda
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • ½ tsp salt
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • ½ cup vegetable oil
    • 2 large eggs
    • 2 tsp vanilla extract
    • 1 cup boiling water
  • For the Pecan Filling:
    • 1 cup chopped pecans
    • ½ cup unsalted butter
    • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
    • ½ cup heavy cream
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Chocolate Frosting:
    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 3 cups powdered sugar
    • ¾ cup cocoa powder
    • ⅓ cup heavy cream
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For Garnish:
    • ½ cup whole or chopped toasted pecans

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Cake Layers:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until combined. Gradually mix in the boiling water. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely.

2️⃣ Make the Pecan Filling:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and fold in the chopped pecans. Let it cool to room temperature.

3️⃣ Prepare the Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream. Add vanilla extract and beat until smooth and fluffy.

4️⃣ Assemble the Cake:
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the pecan filling evenly on top. Repeat with the second layer and remaining pecan filling. Add the third cake layer and frost the entire cake with the chocolate frosting.

5️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
Decorate with toasted pecans around the edges or on top. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Notes

  • Use dark cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
  • For a nut-free option, replace the pecan filling with caramel or fruit preserves.
  • The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Keywords: chocolate pecan dream cake, pecan chocolate dessert, chocolate cake with pecans, holiday cake recipe, decadent cake