This Pecan chocolate cake is the perfect flourless dessert, satisfying both chocolate cravings and dietary restrictions. Rich and moist, it’s a decadent treat that everyone will love, whether they’re observing a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a delicious dessert. With its deep chocolate flavor and nutty undertones, this cake is sure to become a new Passover tradition for your family.
In 2005, I moved to Israel and discovered a beautiful tradition in my family. Every year, during Passover, we gather for a special dinner where each family member contributes a dish. I took on the role of dessert and side dishes. However, Passover’s dietary restrictions, which exclude flour, presented a unique challenge for dessert.
After some thought, I decided to try a flourless chocolate cake. It was a hit! Since then, I’ve made it a tradition to prepare this cake every Passover. Over the years, it has become known as “Veena’s Passover Chocolate Cake” and is eagerly anticipated by my family. This dessert has not only become a favorite but also a cherished part of our Passover celebrations, adding a sweet touch to our annual gatherings.
Why is this the best pecan chocolate cake?
- Rich and Decadent Flavor: The combination of melted chocolate, butter, and ground pecans creates a rich and indulgent flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The use of whipped eggs and ground pecans in place of flour results in a moist and tender crumb, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This cake can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs, as it is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by using dairy-free chocolate and butter substitutes.
- Impressive Presentation: Topped with a glossy chocolate glaze and decorated with chocolate-coated pecans, this cake looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions or celebrations.
Ingredients and substitutes
- Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cake. You can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Semisweet Chocolate: Provides the main chocolate flavor. Use high-quality chocolate for the best results. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free chocolate.
- Eggs: Separate the eggs and whip the whites to incorporate air into the batter, giving the cake structure and lightness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps aerate the eggs when beaten.
- Ground Pecans: Add texture and flavor to the cake. You can use other ground nuts like almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer.
- Brewed Coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. You can substitute with water or milk if you prefer.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the cake. You can use other flavorings like almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors in the cake and balances the sweetness. Omit if using salted butter.
- Chocolate-coated Pecans: For decoration, adds a crunchy texture and additional chocolate flavor. You can use regular pecans or other nuts if you prefer.
Step-by-step: Pecan Chocolate Cake (Flourless)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round springform cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper as well. Wrap the outside of the cake pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chopped chocolate over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once melted and smooth, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, add the whole eggs and a pinch of salt. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the eggs until light and frothy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the sugar to the whipped eggs, beating until thick and pale in color.
- Stir in the melted chocolate mixture, ground pecans, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Place the cake pan in a large roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
- Carefully transfer the roasting pan to the preheated oven and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the water bath and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- For the chocolate glaze, melt the chocolate with butter and honey in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip the pecans partially in chocolate pecans and leave to set on parchment paper in the fridge for a while.
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the cooled cake while still in the pan. Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate-coated pecans or regular pecans. Leave the glaze to set at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge for the chocolate to set.
- When ready to serve, unmold the cake from the springform pan and transfer to a serving platter.
How to make homemade ground pecans
- Place pecans on a baking tray and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes. Remove and let cool completely. Set aside 8 to 10 pecans for the final decoration.
- Place the remaining pecans in a food processor with a few tablespoons of sugar (approximately 4 tbsp).
- Grind to a fine powder. Use a pulsing motion to prevent the pecans from releasing oil.
Pro tip – The reason we add some sugar from the recipe is to prevent the pecans from releasing oil. Oily pecan meal will make a greasy cake.
Pecan Chocolate Cake (Flourless)
This flourless chocolate cake with ground pecans is the perfect Passover dessert, satisfying both chocolate cravings and dietary restrictions. Rich and moist, it's a decadent treat that everyone will love, whether they're observing Passover or simply looking for a delicious dessert. With its deep chocolate flavor and nutty undertones, this cake is sure to become a new Passover tradition for your family.
Video
Ingredients
- 5 oz (140 g) Chocolate dark or semi-sweet
- 4 tbsp (60 g) Unsalted butter room temperature
- 3 large Eggs
- ¾ cup (150 g) Sugar divided
- ¼ tsp Kosher salt
- 1½ cup (200 g) Ground pecans
- ¼ cup Coffee brewed
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round springform cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper as well. Wrap the outside of the cake pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chopped chocolate over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once melted and smooth, remove from heat and let cool slightly.5 oz Chocolate, 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
- In a large bowl, add the whole eggs and a pinch of salt. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the eggs until light and frothy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the sugar to the whipped eggs, beating until thick and pale in color.3 large Eggs, ¾ cup Sugar, ¼ tsp Kosher salt
- Stir in the melted chocolate mixture, ground pecans, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until well combined.1½ cup Ground pecans, ¼ cup Coffee , 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- Place the cake pan in a large roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
- Carefully transfer the roasting pan to the preheated oven and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the water bath and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- For the chocolate glaze, melt the chocolate with butter and honey in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip the pecans partially in chocolate pecans and leave to set on parchment paper in the fridge for a while.4 oz Chocolate, 2 tbsp Butter, 1 tbsp Honey
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the cooled cake while still in the pan. Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate-coated pecans or regular pecans. Leave the glaze to set at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge for the chocolate to set.10 – 12 Pecan halves
- When ready to serve, unmold the cake from the springform pan and transfer to a serving platter.
Notes
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- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Since chocolate is a key ingredient, using high-quality chocolate will result in a richer flavor and better texture.
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- Properly Whip the Eggs: Whipping the egg whites until they form stiff peaks is crucial for incorporating air into the batter and giving the cake a light texture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the egg whites.
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- Ground Pecans: Ensure the pecans are finely ground to a powder-like consistency. This helps to evenly distribute them in the batter and gives the cake a smooth texture.
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- Baking in a Water Bath: Baking the cake in a water bath helps to regulate the temperature and prevent the cake from drying out. Make sure to wrap the cake pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
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- Cooling and Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. This helps the glaze set properly and gives the cake a polished finish.
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- Decorating: When decorating with chocolate-coated pecans or regular pecans, gently press them into the glaze to ensure they adhere securely.
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- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or flavorings to customize the cake to your taste. Almonds, hazelnuts, or a splash of rum or almond extract can add interesting twists to the recipe.
Equipment you will need
Nutrition
Tried this recipe?
Mention @veenaazmanov_kitchen or tag #veenaazmanovkitchen!Tips for success
- Properly Whip the Eggs: Whipping the egg whites until they form stiff peaks is crucial for incorporating air into the batter and giving the cake a light texture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the egg whites.
- Ground Pecans: Ensure the pecans are finely ground to a powder-like consistency. This helps to evenly distribute them in the batter and gives the cake a smooth texture.
- Baking in a Water Bath: Baking the cake in a water bath helps to regulate the temperature and prevent the cake from drying out. Make sure to wrap the cake pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- Cooling and Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. This helps the glaze set properly and gives the cake a polished finish.
- Decorating: When decorating with chocolate-coated pecans or regular pecans, gently press them into the glaze to ensure they adhere securely.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. This cake can be kept in the fridge for up to a week and can be frozen for up to a month. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burns and thaw it in the fridge a day before you need it.
Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving.
It is always recommended to whip eggs at a low speed, then move up to high speed as well as add sugar slowly, one tablespoon at a time. Often when air is beaten into the egg too quickly the batter, when baked, tends to deflate or skin. This is an issue not just with gluten-free but often with regular wheat flour cakes too.
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Hi, I’m Veena
I’m the recipe developer, baker, and food photographer behind Veena Azmanov Kitchen.
I’ve spent years developing and testing recipes, from everyday meals and homemade breads to cakes and desserts.
I share the practical tips and little details I’ve learned along the way so you can get great results in your own kitchen.
Oh Veena!
Thanks for this fabulous recipe! I’m ready to dive into that pecans and all!
I’ll be looking up that cookbook, too … can always use a recommended cookbook added to the shelf.
Thank you Noel. Oh it’s an amazing book.. worth every penny.
Cake looks super yum.. I should try this for my son
Thank you !
This cake looks sooo good. Love the chocolate and pecan combination and the fact that it’s gluten free is even more appealing!
Yes it sure is gluten free. Chocolate and Pecan is always a fav combination
I’m so used to pecan pie as a dessert that I never think of pecans in a cake or anything like this.and then with chocolate? Yes please! It looks so incredible and moist!
Thank you Sara. I love pecans myself so this is one of my favorites
Chocolate always create magic in any dish.. I can imagine the taste
Thank you
Chocolate always create magic in any dish. I can imagine the taste
Thank you Traditionally modern food
How lovely is this cake!!! And just perfect to Passover! Looks so rich and moist!
Thank you Dene
Veena, that’s a beautiful cake! I love the idea of making it with pecan flour and I love the dense, moist look of it. A must try for sure!
Thank you Byron. Yeah the Pecan and Chocolate make an excellent combination.
Veena – I love love love this cake!!! I made flour less chocolate cakes before but they used almond meal and I never even thought of using other kinds of nuts. Pecans are one of my favourite nuts though so this cake just sounds absolutely amazing!!!
Thank you Julia. I too love Pecans and Chocolate so this is one of my favorite cakes
Oh my goodness, this looks so decadent and rich! I love that this cake is gluten-free and that you used pecan meal for the “flour” base” I bet it tastes delicious! It’s so pretty too!
It was very delicious Emily. Thanks. I love the combination of Pecan and Chocolate so yeah this tasted incredible