Description
Delight in a moist, chocolatey pecan loaf—perfectly rich and packed with nutty flavor. An irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the loaf.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Contributes a tangy flavor and ensures a tender crumb.
- ½ cup cocoa powder – Provides richness and depth of chocolate flavor.
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips – Melts into the loaf, giving bursts of chocolate in each bite.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binding agent, helping the loaf rise and achieve its structure.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the loaf moist and enhances its tenderness.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the loaf, providing structure.
- 1 tsp baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the loaf to rise.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For the Ganache:
- ½ cup dark chocolate, chopped – Creates a rich, luscious topping.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Emulsifies with chocolate to form a glossy ganache.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together: 1 cup granulated sugar, 1½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: 1 cup buttermilk, ½ cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Ensure the mixture is well combined for even distribution of flavors.
- Now combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. It’s vital not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.
- Fold in: 1 cup chopped pecans and ½ cup dark chocolate chips. Use a spatula to incorporate them evenly into the batter without overworking it.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the loaf is cooling, prepare the ganache: Heat ½ cup heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering, then pour it over ½ cup chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Drizzle the ganache over the cooled loaf. Let it set for a bit before slicing to let the chocolate firm up slightly for a beautiful finish.