Description
Indulge in the rich and luscious Chocolate Pecan Dream Cake, a delightful poke cake layered with sweetened condensed milk, warm hot fudge sauce, and a creamy cream cheese topping. Garnished with crunchy pecans and mini chocolate chips, this American dessert is perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings, offering a perfect balance of chocolate, creaminess, and nutty textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients to prepare it
Filling and Topping
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) hot fudge sauce, warmed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- Extra pecans and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cake: Preheat your oven and prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, usually about 30 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Poke holes and add condensed milk: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly all over the warm cake, allowing the liquid to seep deep. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire cake, letting it soak into the holes for ultimate moisture and sweetness.
- Drizzle fudge sauce: Warm the hot fudge sauce slightly and drizzle it evenly over the top of the cake, adding a glossy, rich layer of chocolate.
- Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature. This ensures the cream cheese topping will spread smoothly and won’t melt.
- Make the cream cheese frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until fully combined and fluffy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is light and airy.
- Spread frosting and garnish: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the fully cooled cake. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips across the top for added texture and flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the frosting to set. For best results, chill overnight.
- Optional garnish: Before serving, add extra pecans and chocolate shavings on top for an elegant finish and extra crunch.
Notes
- This cake is perfect for making ahead and tastes even better after chilling overnight.
- For an extra crunch and deeper flavor, toast the pecans before using.
- You can substitute caramel sauce for hot fudge sauce to offer a delightful variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
