If you’re in the mood for a decadent treat that feels both cozy and indulgent, this Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll is here to win you over! Imagine a fluffy cake rolled up with a rich chocolate filling, layered with crunchy pecans, and drizzled generously with caramel sauce. It’s the ultimate dessert for when you want to impress guests or treat yourself to something truly special. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs – Room temperature eggs help create a light, fluffy cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and moisture, giving our cake the perfect crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely, warm flavor.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour – The base for our cake batter, keeping it soft yet structured.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder – For a rich chocolatey flavor in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures the cake rises nicely.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce – Drizzled on top for that gooey, irresistible sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chocolate ganache or chocolate fudge sauce – To spread inside the roll, adding a deep chocolate richness.
How to Make the Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10×15-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the cake out after baking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for about 2-3 minutes, until they’re thick and pale. Add in the sugar and vanilla, and beat for another minute until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix. This keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Step 5: While the cake is still warm, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place it on a clean kitchen towel dusted with a bit of powdered sugar. Starting from one short end, gently roll the cake up with the towel inside. Let it cool completely in this rolled-up shape.
Step 6: Once the cake has cooled, unroll it carefully and spread a layer of chocolate ganache or fudge sauce over the inside. Roll the cake back up without the towel this time, forming a neat, tight roll.
Step 7: Transfer the cake roll to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce, allowing it to cascade over the edges. Top with additional pecans if desired.
Equipment Needed for This Recipe
- Electric mixer – Helps to beat the eggs to the perfect fluffy texture.
- 10×15-inch baking pan – The ideal size for baking a cake roll.
- Parchment paper – Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan.
- Offset spatula – For spreading the chocolate filling smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts will add a similar crunch and complement the chocolate and caramel flavors beautifully.
Can I make this cake roll in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the caramel drizzle right before serving.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade caramel sauce, or substitute with melted chocolate for an extra chocolatey twist.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm with a towel helps prevent cracks. Be gentle when you unroll and re-roll it with the filling.
Can I freeze the cake roll?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving and add the caramel sauce fresh.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
You can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It may alter the texture slightly, but should still turn out delicious!
Conclusion
I hope you loved making this Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll! It’s such a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. If you enjoyed it, be sure to share this recipe on Facebook or save it on Pinterest so you can make it again later. Happy baking!
