Southern Living Chocolate Bundt Cake with Pecans
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.
Equipment
- 10- to 12-cup Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Wire cooling rack
- Saucepan (for the glaze)
Ingredients
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
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.
Notes
Keep in mind that precise measurements and proper mixing are key to achieving the perfect texture for this cake. Don’t skip toasting the pecans, as it enhances their flavor and adds depth to the dessert. Finally, always check doneness with a toothpick to ensure your cake is baked to perfection!