Welcome to dessert heaven! If you’ve been craving a treat that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, you’re about to meet your new favorite dessert: gooey chocolate pecan cake. With its rich chocolate center, nutty pecan crunch, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this dessert is perfect for every occasionfrom casual family nights to elegant dinner parties.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through why this is a must-try recipe, how to make it step-by-step, and even give you expert tips for perfecting your dessert game. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this pecan chocolate cake recipe will quickly become one of your most-requested bakes.
Why You’ll Love Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake
Life is too short for boring desserts, and this gooey chocolate pecan cake is anything but. Here are a few reasons you’ll love this show-stopping dessert:
- Decadent Flavor: This cake balances a fudgy chocolate base with the buttery, nutty goodness of pecans. Each bite feels like a symphony of flavors you won’t want to end.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Impress your guests at gatherings, delight your family at weeknight dinners, or simply treat yourself after a long day this cake works for everything!
- Easy to Make: With just a few staple pantry ingredients, you’ll whip up this cake in no time. No fancy baking skills are required.
- Texture Perfection: The gooey goodness comes from a luscious chocolate filling, paired with a slightly crisp pecan topping. The contrast in textures is heavenly.
- Customizable: Prefer walnuts instead of pecans? Want to drizzle caramel sauce on top? This chocolate pecan dessert recipe can easily be personalized.
This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s pure edible bliss. Follow along to learn the secrets to baking the perfect gooey chocolate pecan cake every single time.
Ingredients
Here’s your comprehensive list to make the ultimate gooey chocolate pecan cake. Let’s go over the essentials that give this dessert its rich flavor and texture.
The Essentials for Your Chocolate Pecan Cake
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup): Butter gives the cake its richness. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the cake just enough to balance the cocoa flavors.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup): Adds depth and a touch of caramel flavor that complements the pecans perfectly.
- Eggs (3 large): Provides structure while keeping the cake moist and gooey.
- Vanilla Extract (1 ½ tsp): Elevates the chocolate and pecan flavors. Use pure vanilla if possible.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): The base of your cake’s structure. For a gluten-free version, opt for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Cocoa Powder (½ cup): Go for unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolatey taste.
- Salt (½ tsp): Balances the flavors.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise and keeps the texture light.
- Chopped Pecans (1 cup): The star of the show! Toast slightly for an extra crunchy and aromatic topping.
- Milk (½ cup): Adds moisture and enhances the gooey texture.
- Optional: Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Fold into the batter for an extra chocolate kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake
This gooey chocolate pecan cake is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a perfectly baked dessert in no time!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, and lightly dust with flour. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and milk to keep the mixture smooth.
Step 3: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 4: Add the Pecans and Optional Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips (if using). This ensures even distribution.
Step 5: Bake It to Gooey Perfection
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Step 6: Let It Cool (Briefly!)
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes. The gooey texture will set slightly, but don’t wait too long this dessert is best enjoyed warm!
Expert Tips
Want to ensure your chocolate pecan cake turns out perfect every time? Here are some pro tips:
- Toast Your Pecans: Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the batter. This brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.
- Don’t Over-mix: Over-mixing the batter can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined.
- Use a Water Bath: If you’re worried about the edges overbaking while keeping the middle gooey, place your baking dish inside a larger dish filled with hot water.
- Check Early: Begin checking for doneness at the 30-minute mark. Every oven is different, and it’s better to check earlier than overbake.
Variations
While this gooey chocolate pecan cake is phenomenal as is, there’s always room for creativity. Try these variations:
- Walnut Chocolate Cake: Replace pecans with walnuts for a slightly milder nutty flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce on top just before serving to make it extra indulgent.
- Salted Chocolate Pecan Cake: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a sweet and savory balance.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Vegan Chocolate Pecan Cake: Use plant-based butter, milk, and egg substitutes to veganize the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate pecan dessert is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your experience:
- Alone: Serve it warm and gooey right out of the oven for the ultimate comfort dessert.
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream is the ideal pairing.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for a light contrast.
- With Coffee: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee for a decadent afternoon treat.
FAQ
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Before serving, warm it up slightly in the microwave for that gooey consistency.
2. Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
3. Can I use other nuts?
Of course! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts work wonderfully in Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake. Choose your favorite.
4. How long will this cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 3–4 days at room temperature.
Conclusion
This gooey chocolate pecan cake is not just a dessert it’s an experience. Its rich, chocolatey layers paired with crunchy pecans make every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s so versatile and easy to make that it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion.
So, what are you waiting for? Tie on your apron, grab those pecans, and get ready to bake the most delicious cake you’ve ever tasted. Trust me once you try it, you’ll be whipping up this treat on repeat. Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with fellow dessert lovers!
Happy Baking! 🍫🌰
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5 Irresistible Reasons to Bake This Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake Today
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake a rich, fudgy chocolate dessert with a crispy pecan topping. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for family nights, elegant gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something irresistibly decadent!
Ingredients
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep:
-
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly dust with flour.
- Make the Batter:
-
- In a large bowl, cream together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and milk.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
-
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined (do not over-mix).
- Fold in Pecans & Chocolate Chips:
-
- Gently fold in chopped pecans and chocolate chips (if using).
- Bake:
-
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Cool & Serve:
-
- Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for the ultimate gooey texture!
Notes
- For extra crunch: Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the batter.
- For a fudgier texture: Reduce baking time by a couple of minutes and check early.
- Want extra indulgence? Drizzle with caramel sauce or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (out of 12
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: ~30g
- Sodium: ~150mg
- Fat: ~20g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Protein: ~5g
- Cholesterol: ~60mg