Chocolate Nut Crumb Cake
Decadent chocolate nut crumb cake features a rich chocolate flavor combined with crunchy pecans and graham cracker crumbs, perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- While melting 1/3 cup of chocolate chips, grease and flour a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir in chopped pecans and 2/3 cup of chocolate chips.
- Combine sifted flour with soda and salt.
- Cream the 1/2 cup butter in a large bowl.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups sugar; cream until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Blend in melted chocolate and vanilla.
- At low speed, add dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, and mix well after each addition.
- Sprinkle with crumb mixture.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until the cake springs back when touched in the center.
- Serve with whipped cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you're out of graham cracker crumbs, crushed digestive biscuits can work as a substitute. To make this recipe a bit lighter, you can use unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the butter. This cake is also great with a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an added flavor contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Chocolate Nut Crumb Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For an extra touch, try topping it with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Consider browsing more American recipes for complementary dessert ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Nut Crumb Cake contains roughly 481 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped to a similar size for even distribution throughout the cake.
What can I do if I don't have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly before using it in the recipe.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).