Introduction
Indulge in the ultimate chocolatey experience with our Luscious Chocolate Pecan Loaf! Bursting with rich cocoa flavors and the perfect pecan crunch, this loaf is your new snack-time addiction. It’s cozy, delightful, and downright irresistible!
Detailed Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- For the Ganache:
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15-20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 decadent servings
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your loaf pan ready by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper for an easy lift-off!
2. In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt until everything’s mingling nicely.
3. In a separate bowl, blend the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and perfect.
4. Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones, and love them gently until just combined. No overmixing, please!
5. Fold in those scrumptious pecans and dark chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into your prepped loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for that picture-perfect bake.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes. Do the toothpick test – if it comes out clean, it’s ready to go!
8. Let your loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Time for ganache! Heat the heavy cream until it starts to simmer, then pour it over your chopped chocolate. After 5 dreamy minutes, stir into silky lusciousness.
10. Drizzle that ganache all over the cooled loaf and let it set. Slice, enjoy, and repeat!
Nutritional Info
Approximately 320 kcal per slice. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your loaf pan ready by greasing it and lining with parchment paper for an easy lift-off!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt until everything’s mingling nicely.
3. Blend Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and perfect.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones, and love them gently until just combined. No overmixing, please!
5. Fold in Add-Ins
Fold in those scrumptious pecans and dark chocolate chips.
6. Pour Batter into Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into your prepped loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for that picture-perfect bake.
7. Bake the Loaf
Bake for 55-60 minutes. Do the toothpick test – if it comes out clean, it’s ready to go!
8. Cool the Loaf
Let your loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Ganache
Heat the heavy cream until it starts to simmer, then pour over your chopped chocolate. After 5 dreamy minutes, stir into silky lusciousness.
10. Drizzle Ganache
Drizzle that ganache all over the cooled loaf and let it set. Slice, enjoy, and repeat!
Notes
Storage
Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Additional Toppings
Feel free to sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for presentation.
Cook Techniques
Whisking
Whisking dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that they are evenly distributed, which helps with the overall texture and rise of the loaf.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Blend the wet ingredients until smooth to create an even batter, which is key for a well-integrated flavor profile.
Folding
Gently fold in chocolate chips and pecans to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense loaf.
Pouring Batter
When pouring the batter into the loaf pan, ensure it’s evenly spread to promote consistent baking.
Toothpick Test
Use a toothpick to check for doneness—insert it into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, the loaf is ready.
Cooling
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Making Ganache
Heat the cream carefully to avoid boiling over, and let it sit with the chocolate to create a silky, smooth texture.
FAQ
Can I substitute buttermilk?
Yes, you can use a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the chocolate pecan loaf?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing to keep it fresh for up to 3 months.
What can I use if I don’t have dark chocolate chips?
You can substitute with semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips based on your sweetness preference.
Is there a nut-free version?
Yes, you can omit the pecans or substitute with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
Conclusion
Enjoy with a Cup of Coffee
Pair your chocolate pecan loaf with a warm cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Perfect for Gatherings
This loaf makes for an excellent dessert at parties or family gatherings, sure to impress your guests.
Experiment with Toppings
Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or toasted coconut on top of the ganache for an extra flavor boost.
Use Other Nuts
Feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you want a different crunch.
Create Mini Loaves
Consider making mini versions of the loaf for individual servings—great for sharing!
