Here’s a rich and decadent Chocolate Pecan Coconut Cake recipe that combines flavors of chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water or coffee (for extra richness)
For the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Frosting (Optional):
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee, stirring until well combined (the batter will be thin).
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Coconut-Pecan Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, brown sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the coconut, pecans, and vanilla. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Make the Chocolate Frosting (Optional):
- Beat the softened butter and cocoa powder together until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, alternating until you reach the desired consistency.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the coconut-pecan filling over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining filling on top.
- (Optional) Frost the sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting.
Serving:
This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. Garnish with extra pecans or shredded coconut if desired. Enjoy