Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake

Introduction

If you love the combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet caramel, then this Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake is for you! This cake is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it also looks beautiful on the table, making it perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, this cake will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to make this Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake. First, it is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for birthdays, parties, or just a sweet treat at home. The blend of chocolate and salted caramel adds a delightful depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Plus, the crunchy pecans offer a lovely texture contrast to the soft cake and creamy frosting. Making this cake is also a fun and rewarding experience, bringing joy to both the baker and those lucky enough to enjoy a slice!

How to Make Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake

To create your very own Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake, follow these simple steps.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup warm water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp sea salt
3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Whole pecans for garnish
Extra caramel sauce for dripping

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add the eggs, buttermilk, warm water, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well until smooth and well combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans.
For the caramel frosting, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let it cool slightly before beating in the powdered sugar until smooth.
Frost the top of the bottom layer of cake with the caramel frosting. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top and decorate with whole and chopped pecans.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake

Serve your Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake at room temperature. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. This cake is great for celebrations, but it can also be a delightful dessert for a cozy night in.

How to Store Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake

To store your cake, keep it in a covered container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer time, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. If you’ve made it in advance, you can freeze the cake (before frosting) for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Be careful not to over-bake the cake; check the center with a toothpick.
Let the caramel frosting cool enough before adding the powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
Feel free to adjust the amount of sea salt in the frosting based on your taste.

Variation

You can try adding different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for a twist. You might also substitute the chocolate cake with vanilla for a lighter option while keeping the caramel and pecans.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Frost them just before serving.

2. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

3. Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! You can use cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple buttercream if you prefer.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this delicious Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cake!