Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake

Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake with this delicious recipe. This cake is the perfect combination of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and moist chocolate cake layers that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

History

The origins of Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been inspired by the classic combination of chocolate and caramel. The addition of pecans adds a nutty crunch to the cake, making it a truly irresistible dessert.

Ingredients

Filling

1 package (14 oz (397 g)) of caramels (approximately 75 caramels)
1 can of sweetened condensed milk (eagle brand, 300 ml)
0.5 cup of butter

Cake

0.67 cup of butter
4 squares of unsweetened chocolate
1.5 cup of water
2 cup of sugar
2 eggs
2.5 cup of flour
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of baking soda
2 tsp of vanilla
1.5 cup of coarsely chopped pecans

How to prepare

Filling

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Unwrap the caramels and combine them in a saucepan with sweetened condensed milk and butter.
Cook and stir the mixture over medium heat until it is melted and smooth.
Remove the mixture from heat and set it aside.

Cake

Melt the butter and chocolate together, either on the stove or in the microwave.
Add the water, sugar, eggs, flour, salt, baking soda, and vanilla. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
Spread half of the cake batter into a greased 9 x 13 inches pan.
Bake the cake for 15 minutes, until the center is set. Then, remove it from the oven.
Spread the filling evenly over the cake.
Spread the remaining cake batter over the filling.
Sprinkle the nuts over the top.
Return the cake to the oven and bake it for 40 minutes, until the cake springs back when touched.
Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting it.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt over the top of the cake for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a different nutty twist.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for an extra chocolatey finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to grease your baking pan well to prevent the cake from sticking.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.

- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate in the cake batter.

- To make the cake extra decadent, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly melt the caramels, butter, and chocolate to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.

- Use a toothpick to test the doneness of the cake before removing it from the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making your own filling for a quicker option.

- Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.

Make Ahead Tips

Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cake on a decorative platter and garnish with additional pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 9g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Calcium: 80mg per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy, nuts, and eggs

Summary

Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in calories and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake is a decadent and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans. With a moist cake base and a gooey caramel filling, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy a slice of this delicious cake as a special treat for yourself or to share with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake. It was many years ago, before I had even met your grandfather. I was just a young girl, curious and eager to learn the art of baking from my own grandmother.

I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with her, watching as she effortlessly whipped up delicious meals and treats for our family. She had a way of making everything look so easy, and I was determined to learn all of her secrets.

One day, as I was rummaging through her old recipe box, I came across a worn and tattered piece of paper with the words "Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake" scrawled across the top. I could hardly contain my excitement as I read through the ingredients and instructions. It sounded like the most decadent and mouth-watering dessert I had ever come across.

I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make the cake, and she agreed with a twinkle in her eye. We spent the entire afternoon in the kitchen, mixing and measuring, laughing and chatting as we worked side by side. I soaked up every bit of her wisdom and knowledge, eager to absorb as much as I could.

As the cake baked in the oven, the sweet scent of chocolate and caramel filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. When it was finally done, we carefully removed it from the oven and let it cool before slicing into it.

The first bite was pure bliss. The rich chocolate cake was moist and decadent, the gooey caramel oozed out with each bite, and the crunchy pecans added the perfect amount of texture. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth, and I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake countless times, always thinking back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a signature dessert of mine, one that always brings smiles and satisfaction to those who are lucky enough to try it.

I have added my own twists and tweaks to the original recipe, experimenting with different types of chocolate and caramel, and even incorporating some of my own secret ingredients. But no matter how many variations I try, the essence of the cake remains the same – a perfect balance of sweet and savory, indulgent and comforting.

As I grow older, I find solace in the familiar rituals of baking. The act of measuring and mixing, of waiting and watching as a cake rises in the oven, brings me a sense of peace and contentment. And when I share the fruits of my labor with others, seeing the joy and satisfaction on their faces, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

So here I am, passing down this cherished recipe for Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake to you, my dear grandchild. May you bake it with love and share it with those you hold dear, creating new memories and traditions along the way. And may you always remember the joy of stumbling upon a recipe that sparks your imagination and fills your heart with delight.