This Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. With its rich, moist cake base and a luscious German chocolate pecan glaze, this dessert is a showstopper that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups white sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup German chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
For the German Chocolate Pecan Glaze:
- 1 cup German chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup pecans, chopped and toasted
Instructions:
For the Cake:
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Start by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring they are at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan, ensuring every nook and cranny is well-coated to prevent sticking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. The mixture should be pale and airy, indicating that the sugar has been well-incorporated into the butter.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. The mixture may look slightly curdled, but don’t worry—this is normal.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Incorporate the Chocolate and Pecans:
- Gently fold in the chopped German chocolate and toasted pecans. Make sure the chocolate and pecans are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan.
- Cool the Cake:
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Be patient and let the cake cool thoroughly before applying the glaze, as this will help the glaze set properly.
For the German Chocolate Pecan Glaze:
- Prepare the Glaze:
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped German chocolate, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add the Pecans:
- Stir in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated with the chocolate glaze. The pecans will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the rich, sweet glaze.
- Glaze the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the German chocolate pecan glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful presentation. If you prefer a thicker glaze, let it sit for a few minutes before drizzling it over the cake.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing the cake. Serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Tips for Success:
- Toasting the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter and glaze enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the cake. To toast, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Avoid Overmixing: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake.
- Glaze Application: For a more professional look, pour the glaze from the center of the cake and let it flow naturally down the sides. You can use a spoon to help guide the glaze if needed.
This Decadent German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake Delight is a treat that is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with family or serving it at a special event, this cake is a winner every time!
