Chocolate Pecan Loaf Cake Recipe

Chocolate Pecan Loaf Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • Optional: 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• For the Ganache:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Extra whole pecans for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
   • Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in chopped pecans and chocolate chips, if using.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Ganache:
   • Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil.
   • Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes without stirring.
   • After 5 minutes, whisk until smooth and glossy.
   • Pour the ganache over the cooled cake, allowing some to drip down the sides.
4. Decorate:
   • Sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the ganache before it sets.
   • Optional: Arrange whole pecans in a decorative pattern on top.
5. Serve:
   • Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving.

This chocolate pecan loaf cake is not only visually impressive but also offers a rich, decadent taste that’s perfect for any chocolate lover. Enjoy your baking and indulgence!