Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake

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Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake

Introduction

Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the crunch of pecans in a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This cake is a favorite among dessert lovers, particularly in the Southern United States, where pecans are a staple ingredient. The combination of gooey chocolate and toasted pecans creates a perfect balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and indulgence, making it a treat for all occasions, from family gatherings to festive celebrations.

History of Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake

The origins of gooey chocolate desserts can be traced back to the famous Gooey Butter Cake, which was created in St. Louis in the 1930s. Over time, variations emerged, incorporating different flavors such as chocolate and nuts. The pecan element comes from traditional Southern desserts like Pecan Pie, a beloved dish in the U.S. South. Combining these elements resulted in a unique, indulgent cake that is both rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 cup brown sugar, packed

3 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup dark chocolate chips

For the Pecan Topping

1 ½ cups pecans, chopped

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup dark corn syrup or honey

½ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon salt

For the Ganache Topping (Optional)

1 cup heavy cream

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Stir until just combined.
  6. Fold in dark chocolate chips and pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Topping

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, corn syrup (or honey), brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
  2. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.
  3. Remove from heat and fold in chopped pecans.
  4. Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the cake batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is slightly set but still gooey.
  2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Prepare the Ganache Topping (Optional)

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
  2. Remove from heat and add chopped dark chocolate and butter. Let sit for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir until smooth and glossy.
  4. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Formation of the Cake

The base layer of the cake is dense and moist, thanks to the butter and buttermilk.

The pecan topping caramelizes in the oven, adding a delicious crunch.

The chocolate ganache (if added) enhances the richness and gives a silky finish.

The combination of these layers results in a gooey, fudgy cake with a nutty crunch.

Health Benefits of Chocolate Pecan Cake

While this cake is an indulgence, it has some surprising benefits:

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Eggs and buttermilk provide protein and calcium, essential for strong bones.

Cocoa powder has been linked to mood-boosting properties and may improve cognitive function.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on a standard serving size)

Calories: 450-500 kcal

Protein: 6g

Carbohydrates: 55g

Fat: 25g

Saturated Fat: 10g

Sugar: 40g

Fiber: 3g

Who Loves This Cake?

Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake is adored by:

Chocolate lovers who enjoy rich and fudgy desserts.

Nut lovers who appreciate the crunch of toasted pecans.

Bakers looking for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Dessert enthusiasts who love indulgent, warm, and gooey cakes.

Conclusion

Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake is a perfect balance of decadence and texture, combining rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a moist interior. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a satisfying dessert that blends Southern tradition with indulgent chocolate, this is the cake for you!

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