Description

Indulge in the ultimate dessert with this Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake. Featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans, this cake is as decadent as it gets. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or when you just want to treat yourself, this dessert will be a hit with everyone who tries it!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot water or hot coffee (for extra richness)

For the Filling:

1 ½ cups caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3–4 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for consistency)

For the Garnish:

½ cup whole pecans
½ cup caramel drizzle
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
Slowly stir in the hot water or coffee. The batter will be thin—this is normal!
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Frosting
8. Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well.
10. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake
11. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the caramel sauce evenly over the top.
12. Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans over the caramel.
13. Add the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining caramel sauce and pecans.

Step 4: Frost the Cake
14. Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
15. Decorate the cake with whole pecans around the edges and drizzle with caramel. Add chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.
16. Slice and serve!

Notes

Use Fresh Pecans: Toast them lightly for an even nuttier flavor.
Make Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost just before serving.
Homemade Caramel: If you have time, homemade caramel sauce takes this cake to the next level.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: American