Rich, fudgy layers filled with gooey caramel and crunchy pecans, crowned with silky ganache.

---

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1¾ cups granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup hot coffee (or hot water for milder flavor)

Caramel-Pecan Filling

• 1½ cups chopped pecans

• 1 cup thick caramel sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought)

Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ½ cup heavy cream

Topping

• Extra caramel drizzle

• Extra chopped pecans

---

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake Layers
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, then slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing—your batter will be thin.
Divide evenly into the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let layers cool completely.

2. Make the Ganache
Heat heavy cream just until simmering. Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until glossy and smooth. Let cool slightly before using.

3. Assemble the Cake
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of caramel sauce, then sprinkle with chopped pecans.
Repeat for the second layer. Add the third cake layer on top and gently press down.
Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip naturally down the sides for a decadent finish.

4. Finish with Flair
Drizzle more caramel over the top and around the edges. Sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for crunch and texture.

---

✨ Tip: Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner layers—or serve slightly warm for a molten effect.
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any moment that deserves something extra sweet.