Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake with Rich Ganache Topping

Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake with Rich Ganache Topping: A Luxurious Dessert to Savor

If you’re a fan of indulgent, rich desserts that combine the deep flavor of chocolate with the crunch of toasted nuts, then Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake with Rich Ganache Topping is a recipe you need to try. This cake is the perfect balance of moist, tender cake, nutty crunch, and creamy ganache—a true showstopper for any special occasion, holiday gathering, or simply when you’re in the mood for a treat that feels like pure luxury.

The combination of dark chocolate, roasted pecans, and a smooth ganache topping makes for a dessert that is both rich and satisfying, but also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a celebration, this cake is sure to impress with both its look and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pecan Cake

1. Rich and Decadent: The cake itself is intensely chocolatey, moist, and tender, with a deep flavor that comes from the addition of dark cocoa powder and melted chocolate. Paired with the buttery, slightly salty pecans and the velvety chocolate ganache, it’s a dessert that’s sure to satisfy even the most serious chocolate lovers.
2. Simple Yet Elegant: While this cake looks impressive, the recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. With just a few key ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery.
3. Perfect for Special Occasions: This cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to create a memorable dessert. The chocolate-pecan combination is festive and comforting, and it pairs well with a variety of other desserts and drinks, from coffee to dessert wines.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: The cake and ganache can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for entertaining. The ganache can be refrigerated and gently reheated, and the cake stays fresh for days, making it a perfect choice for meal prepping or making ahead for a big event.

Ingredients for Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake with Rich Ganache Topping

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible cake:

For the Cake:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably dark cocoa)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream (for moisture and richness)
1/2 cup whole milk (you can also use buttermilk for added tang)
4 ounces dark chocolate, melted (about 70% cocoa)
1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans (for added flavor and texture)
For the Ganache:
6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (preferably 70% cocoa)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cake with Rich Ganache Topping

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Cake Batter
   In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.

Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler, and then allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the batter. Mix in the sour cream and milk until the mixture is smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. Fold in the chopped toasted pecans for a lovely crunch.

3. Bake the Cake
   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Make the Ganache
   While the cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for about 1-2 minutes to melt the chocolate, then whisk until smooth.

Stir in the butter and vanilla extract for extra shine and flavor. Let the ganache cool slightly before drizzling it over the cooled cake.

5. Assemble the Cake
   Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of ganache over the top, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. Place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides for that gorgeous, decadent effect.
6. Garnish and Serve
   For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle the top of the cake with more toasted pecans. You can also add a light dusting of cocoa powder or shaved chocolate if you like.

Let the cake set for about 15-20 minutes to allow the ganache to firm up slightly before slicing and serving.

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