This chocolate caramel nut cake is a showstopper dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy nuts. With its moist and tender crumb, this cake is a true indulgence for chocolate lovers. The layers of chocolate cake are filled with caramel and toasted nuts, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, and garnished with more caramel and nuts. This cake is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sweet and luxurious treat. Prepare to impress your guests with this heavenly dessert!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup chopped mixed nuts (such as walnuts and pecans)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, for garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally to create 4 layers.
- Spread caramel sauce on top of each layer, and sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel layer.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add the chopped semisweet chocolate. Let it sit for a minute to melt, then stir until smooth and combined.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and pour some of the chocolate ganache over it, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cake layers, caramel, nuts, and ganache.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set.
- Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the cake and sprinkle with chopped nuts for garnish.
Interesting Facts
Chocolate was considered a luxury item in the United States until the late 1800s when advancements in manufacturing made it more accessible.
The first chocolate cake recipe dates back to 1764 in a book called 'The Compleat Housewife' by Eliza Smith.
Caramel is made by heating sugar until it melts and turns into a golden-brown syrup, which adds a delicious sweet and buttery flavor to desserts.
Nuts not only add a delightful crunch to this cake but also provide a good source of healthy fats and protein.