Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake

Introduction:

Indulge in the rich and decadent Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake—a perfect blend of chocolate, pecans, and a luscious topping that makes every bite a delight. This cake is ideal for special occasions or whenever you need a chocolate fix!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Add Pecans and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Topping: While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans.
7. Cool and Top: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the pecan topping over the cooled cake, followed by the melted chocolate chips.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings

Variations

• Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• Reheating: Gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different pan?
   Yes, you can use a 9-inch round cake pan or a bundt pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, the cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze this cake?
   Yes, freeze the cake without the topping for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding the topping.
4. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
   Use milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a buttermilk substitute.
5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
6. Can I use a different type of sugar?
   Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar in the cake. However, for the topping, granulated sugar will work better.
7. How do I know when the cake is done?
   The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Can I add other mix-ins?
   Yes, you can add other mix-ins like dried fruit or different types of chocolate.
9. How do I get a clean slice?
   Let the cake cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
10. Can I skip the topping?
    While the topping adds extra flavor and texture, the cake is still delicious on its own without it.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, blending rich chocolate and crunchy pecans with a sweet, caramel-like topping. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as an everyday indulgence, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every decadent bite!

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