## Maple Pecan Chocolate Mousse Cake
Forget about living without desserts, this Maple Pecan Chocolate Mousse Cake is what dreams are made of! This luscious cake combines the rich taste of chocolate, the nuttiness of pecans, and the sweet hint of maple syrup into a heavenly dessert.
🔸 Servings: 12 slices
🔸 Prep Time: 40 minutes
🔸 Bake Time: 25 minutes
🔸 Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
## Why Make This Recipe
If you’re seeking an elegant, indulgent dessert for special occasions or just because, this recipe is the one for you. It’s all about the textural contrast between the soft, moist chocolate cake and the creamy maple pecan mousse. One bite and you’re sure to fall in love with its rich, earthy flavor.
## How To Make Maple Pecan Chocolate Mousse Cake
## Ingredients:
**For the Cake Layers:**
🔸 1 cup all-purpose flour
🔸 1/2 cup cocoa powder
🔸 1 tsp baking powder
🔸 1/2 tsp baking soda
🔸 1/4 tsp salt
🔸 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
🔸 1 cup granulated sugar
🔸 2 large eggs
🔸 1 tsp vanilla extract
🔸 1/2 cup buttermilk
**For the Maple Pecan Mousse:**
🔸 1 cup heavy cream
🔸 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
🔸 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
🔸 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted and cooled
## Directions:
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Apply grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with a sheet of parchment paper.
2. **Make the Cake Layers:** Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In an alternative bowl, mix butter and sugar until fluffy, add the eggs one by one, and stir in vanilla. Gradually add the whisked ingredients, alternate with buttermilk, commencing and ending with the dry mixture. Share the batter uniformly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the heart comes out clear, then allow cooling completely.
3. **Prepare the Mousse:** Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add maple syrup, continue to whip until stiff peaks develop. Mix in the melted chocolate and chopped pecans gently.
4. **Assemble the Cake:** Position one cake layer on a platter, spread half of the mousse over it. Add the second cake layer on top and distribute the remaining mousse over it.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of 1 hour to let the mousse set before garnishing with extra pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup for serving.
## How To Serve Maple Pecan Chocolate Mousse Cake
Serve this cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. As this cake is already a showstopper, you can keep the serving presentation simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.
## How To Store Maple Pecan Chocolate Mousse Cake
You can store this cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to store the cake longer, it can be frozen for up to a month.
## Tips To Make Maple Pecan Chocolate Mousse Cake
1. Make sure all of your ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature.
2. Don’t overmix the batter as it can result in a dense cake.
3. For the mousse, ensure the chocolate is cooled completely before mixing it with the whipped cream and pecans for a smooth, creamy texture.
## Variation
For a fun variation, try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. You can also add a dash of espresso powder to the cake batter to enhance the richness of the chocolate flavor.
## FAQs
#### Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes, you can make this cake a day ahead. Refrigerate the cake overnight to allow the mousse to set properly.
#### How do I know when my cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
#### Can I use pancake syrup instead of real maple syrup?
It is recommended to use real maple syrup as it gives the mousse a deep, rich flavor. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey instead.
Brace yourself for an irresistible experience of the perfect combination of maple, pecans, and rich chocolate. Enjoy the indulgence! 🍁🍫🌰