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Delicious slice of luscious chocolate pecan cake with chocolate frosting and pecans.
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Luscious Chocolate Pecan Cake

A delectable dessert featuring rich chocolate layers and crunchy pecans, perfect for any celebration or a sweet treat.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Celebration Cake, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe, Pecan Cake
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides the structure for the cake.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds a deep chocolate richness.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Works alongside baking powder.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup whole milk Contributes to moisture.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake tender.
  • 2 large eggs Binds ingredients together.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses flavor.
  • 1 cup boiling water Creates a thin batter.

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Forms base of the frosting.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • 5 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk Aids in frosting consistency.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds depth to the frosting.
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans Adds crunch to the frosting.
  • as needed none whole pecans for garnish Decorative touch.
  • as needed none chocolate shavings for garnish Adds elegance.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Making the Cake Batter

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
  • Add whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
  • Gradually stir in boiling water to create a thin batter.
  • Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Baking the Cakes

  • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat softened butter and cocoa powder until creamy.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar alternating with whole milk. Beat until smooth.
  • Stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Assembling the Cake

  • Once the cake layers are cool, place one on a serving plate and frost the top.
  • Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Garnishing

  • Top with whole pecans and chocolate shavings.

Notes

For an even moist cake, brush layers with simple syrup before frosting. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness.