Southern Living Chocolate Bundt Cake with Pecans

Posted on February 14, 2025

When it comes to desserts, few things feel more indulgent than a rich, moist chocolate Bundt cake. Add a touch of Southern charm with toasted pecans, and you’ve got yourself a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

The Southern Living Chocolate Bundt Cake with Pecans is a classic recipe that combines decadence with simplicity and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

This blog will walk you through everything you need to create this crowd-pleasing treat, from the ingredients and equipment to expert baking tips, serving suggestions, and more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner looking to impress, this comprehensive guide will help you nail it every time.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Southern Living Chocolate Bundt Cake with Pecans

The Southern Living Chocolate Bundt Cake with Pecans isn’t just a cake—it’s an experience. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe book:

Rich Flavor: From the deep, chocolaty base to the nuttiness of toasted pecans, every bite is bursting with flavor.
Perfect Texture: Unlike many cakes that risk dryness, the Bundt’s design ensures even baking, resulting in a moist and tender crumb.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Bundt cakes are naturally beautiful. Their intricate patterns make them a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
Easy to Make: Don’t let its elegance fool you. This recipe is straightforward, and the results are consistently excellent.
Versatile: Whether for a casual family dinner or a holiday gathering, this cake fits any setting perfectly.

Still not convinced? Try it once, and we promise it’ll become your signature dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Chocolate Bundt Cake

Here’s a list of the simple, easily accessible ingredients required to make this decadent dessert:

For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Optional Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

Pro Tip: Always use high-quality cocoa powder and vanilla extract—they make all the difference!

Equipment Needed to Bake the Cake

Having the right tools on hand helps ensure effortless execution and optimal results. For this recipe, you’ll need:

10- to 12-cup Bundt pan
Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula
Wire cooling rack
Saucepan (for the glaze)

Investing in a nonstick Bundt pan with sharp edges will yield a beautiful cake that releases cleanly every time.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Bundt Pan

Grease your Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray. Dust lightly with cocoa powder for easy release.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk to remove any lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fill the Bundt Pan

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Unmold

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

Heat the cream in a saucepan until simmering, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth, then mix in the butter.

Step 10: Decorate

Drizzle the glaze over the cake and finish with toasted pecans.

You’re done! Take a moment to admire your masterpiece before digging in.

How to Serve Your Chocolate Bundt Cake

This Bundt cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with the right pairing:

Classic: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Indulgent: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Festive: Sprinkle powdered sugar or add fresh berries for a holiday touch.

Tips for Storing Leftovers

Not that you’ll have many leftovers, but just in case:

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freeze individual slices and defrost as needed.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Bundt Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to come to room temperature for a smooth batter.
Grease the Pan Thoroughly: Pay extra attention to the nooks and crannies of your Bundt pan to prevent sticking.
Don’t Overmix: Over-mixing leads to a dense texture. Mix just until combined.
Use a Cake Tester: For perfect doneness, avoid eyeballing. Use a toothpick or cake tester.
Cool Properly: Give your cake the time to cool partially in the pan to prevent breakage during release.
Glaze at the Right Temperature: Let your glaze cool for a few minutes before drizzling to avoid melting the cake.

FAQs About Baking Chocolate Bundt Cake

How Do I Prevent My Bundt Cake From Sticking to the Pan?

To prevent sticking, ensure your bundt pan is properly greased and floured before adding the batter. Use a pastry brush to get into every crevice and dust with cocoa powder for chocolate cakes to maintain the cake’s rich color.

Why Is My Bundt Cake Dry?

A dry bundt cake is often caused by overbaking or using incorrect ingredient measurements. Always double-check your recipe, use a kitchen scale for accuracy, and monitor your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure precise baking.

Can I Use a Different Pan for This Recipe?

While this recipe is optimized for a bundt pan, you can use other pans, like loaf or round cake pans. However, the cooking time may vary, so start checking for doneness earlier to avoid overbaking.

How Do I Store My Bundt Cake?

Store your bundt cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, it can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for up to three months.

What Is the Best Way to Apply the Glaze?

The key to a smooth glaze application is patience. Allow your bundt cake to cool completely, and ensure the glaze is at the right consistency—thick but pourable. Slowly drizzle it over the cake for an even coating.

Conclusion

Baking a perfect chocolate bundt cake is achievable with the right ingredients, tools, and techniques. Remember to be patient and pay attention to detail for optimal results. With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious and impressive dessert that will leave your guests wanting more. Happy baking! Keep in mind though, practice makes perfect so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless.