Southern Decadence Chocolate Cake

Name: Southern Decadence Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 4 oz unsweetened chocolate; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (frosting); 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (frosting); 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (frosting); 1/4 cup evaporated milk (frosting); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (frosting)

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 12

★★★★★

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This Southern Decadence Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience. With its rich layers of chocolate, crunchy pecans, and gooey marshmallows, it's sure to become a favorite at gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights in. Let's dive into this irresistible chocolate creation!

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Ingredients for Southern Decadence Chocolate Cake

Butter: Provides the cake with a rich, creamy texture and helps in binding the ingredients together. You’ll use it in both the cake and the frosting for a consistent flavor.

Unsweetened chocolate: This is the heart of your chocolate flavor. Melting it with butter ensures smooth integration into the batter.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the bitterness of the unsweetened chocolate.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor, adding depth and warmth.

Eggs: Act as a binding agent, giving structure and moisture to the cake.

All-purpose flour: Provides the body and structure to the cake. It’s important to measure it accurately for the right texture.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Pecans: Add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making each bite interesting.

Mini marshmallows: Melt into a gooey topping that pairs beautifully with the smooth chocolate frosting.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while giving it a smooth, lump-free finish.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the frosting.

Evaporated milk: Provides a creamy base for the frosting without thinning it too much.

Tips & Tricks

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Chop pecans finely if you prefer a less chunky texture.
Let the cake cool completely before cutting to avoid the frosting running.
For an extra chocolate kick, add a handful of chocolate chips before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Try serving it slightly warm to enhance the gooey marshmallow and rich chocolate flavors. For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of nut?: Yes, walnuts or almonds would work well if you're not a fan of pecans.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for best results.
How should I store leftovers?: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Southern Decadence Chocolate Cake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's warming up, grease a 9x13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Now, grab a saucepan and melt the butter with the unsweetened chocolate over low heat, stirring as you go to avoid scorching. Once melted, remove it from heat and mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract.

Next, incorporate the eggs one by one, ensuring each is thoroughly mixed before adding the next. This step is crucial for a smooth batter. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cake dense. Fold in the chopped pecans for that classic Southern touch.

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes — you'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the top with mini marshmallows so they start to melt slightly.

For the frosting, melt the second portion of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this over the marshmallow layer, spreading it evenly. Let the cake cool completely before slicing — patience pays off here!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Combines rich chocolate flavor with a delightful texture contrast.
Pecans add a Southern twist and a satisfying crunch.
Perfectly balanced sweetness with a hint of vanilla.
Easy to make with simple, straightforward steps.
Guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter

4 oz unsweetened chocolate

2 cups granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 large eggs

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup chopped pecans

2 cups mini marshmallows

1/2 cup unsalted butter (frosting)

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (frosting)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (frosting)

1/4 cup evaporated milk (frosting)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (frosting)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. Melt the butter and unsweetened chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract.

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in the chopped pecans and pour the batter into the prepared pan.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Remove the cake from the oven and immediately top with mini marshmallows.

9. In a saucepan, melt the butter for the frosting over medium heat.

10. Stir in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.