Nana Jose’s Flourless Chocolate Pecan Cake
Pastel de Chocolate y Nuez de la Nana Jose
Recipe Yield
10 servings
Cooking time
50 minutes
Rate this recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter plus 1 tablespoon for buttering the pan
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate
- 1 cup pecans
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sugar
- Pinch of kosher or coarse sea salt
- Confectioners' sugar optional
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream optional
- Berries optional
To Prepare
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9-inch springform pan and line bottom with parchment paper.
- Bring about 2-inches of water to a simmer in the bottom half of a double boiler or in a medium saucepan. Place the top half of the double boiler, or a metal bowl or heatproof pan if not using a double boiler, over the simmering water and melt together the chocolate and the 1/4 cup butter. Set aside to cool.
- Using a blender, chop the pecans finely. Add the eggs, vanilla, sugar, salt and melted chocolate mixture, blending until smooth. Pour the batter into the buttered springform pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out moist but not wet, about 40 minutes.
- Once it has cooled a little, run the tip of a knife around the pan and release the cake from the pan. Invert onto a plate, and then again, or serve directly onto plates if left on bottom part of springform pan. If desired, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and serve with whipped cream and berries.
Comments
317comments inNana Jose’s Flourless Chocolate Pecan Cake
Wayne
Apr 09
Loved your recipe and have made it several time. Always a great dessert
Pati Jinich
Jun 06
So glad you like it as much as I do Wayne 😉
Isis Moreno
Feb 09
I cannot wait to try this cake. Definitely gonna try this for this Valentine’s Day. 2023
Pati Jinich
Mar 13
I hope you baked it and enjoyed it Isis!
Linda
Jan 18
This flourless pecan chocolate cake is excellent! Would make this again!
Pati Jinich
Jan 28
So glad you liked it Linda!
Marion
Dec 08
Could you please give the weight of a cup of pecans? Is it a cup of whole pecans or a cup when ground? I’m making this for my daughter for her birthday & need to get my measurements correct. Thank you.
Pati Jinich
Jan 02
It is a cup of whole pecans, around 100 grams. Happy birthday to your daughter!
Marion
Dec 04
Can semi sweet chocolate chips be used in this recipe? If so, would you adjust the amount of sugar used? Thank you. My daughter has had Celiac Disease since she was 3 & I want to make it for her 47th birthday!!
Pati Jinich
Jan 02
Of course Marion, go ahead and reduce the sugar to 1/3 of a cup. Happy birthday to your daughter!
Kim Emmett
Nov 17
This is a wonderful cake. Thank you for sharing this recipe. I make this for my wife on her birthday.
Pati Jinich
Dec 11
Yay Kim, thank you!
Deanna Hazelton
Nov 15
Fantastic yum!!!
Pati Jinich
Dec 11
Yay!
Alejandra Flores
Sep 13
Could you use cocoa powder instead?
Pati Jinich
Sep 21
You could, but it comes out much richer and moist if you use melted chocolate Alejandra 😉
Laura
Aug 13
Love this cake! It’s perfect for our gluten-free folks in the family and so decadent and rich.
Pati Jinich
Sep 11
Yay, thanks so much!
Karen
Apr 19
I don’t have a blender can I just mix all by hand??? Thanks
Pati Jinich
Apr 19
Of course Karen, it will take a bit of extra elbow grease, but you will do great, enjoy!
Debbie Miller
Apr 12
Looks and sounds great thank you Pati
Pati Jinich
Apr 19
My pleasure Debbie!
Marcy
Mar 24
With just one switch, using Swerve instead of sugar, this is a perfect cake for everyone in my family: It’s low-carb (for my prediabetes), it’s gluten free (for my grandson), it’s got a rich chocolate flavor (for the whole crowd), and best of all, it’s Kosher for Passover!
Thanks!
Pati Jinich
Mar 24
Awesome, so happy this will make everyone in your family happy Marcy 🙂
Teresa Ann Bodwell
Dec 21
Would it be okay to substitute hazelnuts for pecans? And somehow I’d like to incorporate Mexican Kahlua. What do you think? Thanks—love you on PBS!
Pati Jinich
Dec 26
Sound like great ideas Teresa Ann, let me know how it comes out!
Georg
Nov 19
Wow…what a delicious cake!!! Will make this many times!
Pati Jinich
Dec 28
Yay! Glad you guys liked it Georg 🙂
Jan Gatti
Oct 15
This is a fantastic recipe-My family loves it!
Pati Jinich
Oct 29
Yay, thanks for letting me know 😉
Jackie schiessl
Sep 09
I love your cake it’s delicious I’m gluten free and my husband loves it.
Pati Jinich
Oct 03
So glad you enjoyed this, it is one of my favorite cakes ever!
Sophia A.
Aug 31
Is this cake fudgy?
Pati Jinich
Sep 18
I would call it “very rich” more than fudgy Sophia 🙂
Val Zanchuk
Jun 23
I have made this cake twice in the past week, each time for a different group of people to enjoy. Rave reviews from everyone and several recipe requests. This cake probably has the highest amount of eating pleasure from the least amount of baking effort of anything I bake! A real chocolate lover’s cake. I added a little espresso powder to boost the chocolate impact and used Mexican vanilla.
Pati Jinich
Jul 03
Wow, yay!!! So happy you and your friends liked this cake Val 😉 Love it when you guys make math with your compliments 🙂
Mary Adams Gilbert
Jun 03
Can’t wait to try this
I watch your episode with you and Danny’s anniversary
The food looked great and this cake looked so desirable
Thank you for your show, I do enjoy watching it and your family grow up
Pati Jinich
Jun 12
Thanks for your kindness Mary 😉
Cindy E.
Apr 02
Thank you for sharing your Nana’s recipe.
Pati Jinich
Apr 04
My pleasure Cindy, hope you liked it!
Phyllis M Terwey
Mar 30
I am very excited to make this dessert for my family for our Easter meal. I’ve always looked for a special
flourless cake recipe and finally found one as I watched your program this last Saturday. It is one of my
very favorite cooking shows because of your passion for the food, the people, your own family and sharing
the tips and hints with all of us who are at different levels of cooking and baking. I learn so much and
feel less fearful of making mistakes because of you!
Thank you, phylli this is my nickname and I love it cause my friends gave it to me.
Blessings to you and your family.
Pati Jinich
Apr 11
Thanks so much for the sweet words and for your kindness Phylli, so glad you are enjoying the show and my recipes, un abrazo!
Beth D.
Mar 15
I made this wonderful cake for my niece who has an allergy to wheat and thought there were no birthday cakes ever again for her. It is delicious! She loved it plain but said the next day she topped it with vanilla ice cream and it was next level.
Thank you for the fabulous option!
Pati Jinich
Mar 20
So glad your niece was able to enjoy this cake for her birthday Beth, yay! And yes to Vanilla Ice Cream on top, yumm!!!
Tom J.
Feb 18
I am not a baker but I made this and love it. I have made a few times and like it more each time. Thanks. Also, I wish my wife spoke to me the way you speak to Dani.
Pati Jinich
Feb 20
Aw, thanks Tom! So glad you like this recipe so much 🙂
Soleil
Feb 14
Great recipe! So easy and delicious! Ive now made it twice. I make my own whipped cream and add fruit.
Pati Jinich
Feb 15
Awesome Soleil, making your own whipped cream always makes such a big difference, thanks!
Jennifer Eck
Feb 16
Made this and it was soooo.. delicious!! Thanks pati❣️
Pati Jinich
Feb 20
Thanks to you Jennifer, un abrazo!
Heather McLaughlin
Jan 29
This will be amazing for Passover!
Pati Jinich
Jan 31
Yes! Enjoy it Heather 😉
Katie Shortall
Dec 24
Thank you for sharing this recipe. It became an instant family favorite and one that always turns out. It is such a joy to make this cake.
Pati Jinich
Dec 24
So glad you guys liked it Katie! Have a wonderful Holiday Season!
Steph
Dec 23
I confirm that this cake is everything it promises to be. I added chopped rum soaked prunes. I’m about to make another with chopped Luxardo cherries for a GF black forest riff for a GF friend. It’s just the best thing. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Pati Jinich
Dec 24
Mmmmm, yummy ideas Steph, so glad you liked this cake 😉
Lois
Dec 13
This is easy chocolate ecstasy! Also is gluten free which is a plus for one of my family members.
Pati Jinich
Dec 21
Thanks so much for your feedback Lois, so glad you liked this cake, yay!
Geeta Joshi
Dec 10
Would this cake work if I used almonds…my daughter is allergic to all nuts except almonds
Pati Jinich
Dec 11
Of course Geeta, go for the almonds and enjoy this cake with your daughter 😉
Sandra A.
Jul 26
Absolutely amazing! My family loved it!! Thank you Pati 💐
Pati Jinich
Jul 28
Yay! Thanks to you Sandra, hugs to all 😉
Rosalee
Jul 24
I really want to try this cake. It sounds so easy. My friend saw your show and told me about the recipe.
Pati Jinich
Jul 26
It is easy but also delicious Rosalee, I hope you try it!
Suzette in Washington state
Jun 29
I am gluten free. Saw you make this on tv the other day. I made it today. It’s fantastic. Every recipe of yours I make is delicious. Thank you.
Pati Jinich
Jun 30
Thanks so much Suzette! Glad to know you were able to enjoy this cake 😉
Chownoir
Jun 26
Hi Pati,
I cut the recipe in half and used a smaller loaf pan. I also used 100% dark Ghiradelli since we like darker chocolates. It came out so tasty! I’m not a baker so I’m always nervous when trying a new baking recipe. I’m much more confident with making adjustments when cooking. Thank you for this tasty and easy recipe.
We love your show! You have such a warm personality and friendly teaching style. When you’re on location interacting with locals, your friendliness really shines through. It’s been fun seeing your kids grow over the years.
Chownoir on twitter and IG
Pati Jinich
Jun 27
Thanks so much for your kindness! The new Season was filmed in the beautiful state of Sonora in Mexico in will premiere early this fall, stay tuned!
Corinne HOLLINGS
Jun 19
Every time I bring this to a dinner party, the hostess insists on me making from then on. I cut the sugar to 3/4 Cup and have added the zest of an orange.
Pati Jinich
Jun 21
Thanks Corinne for the feedback, love the combination of chocolate and orange, yum!
Ricardo CK
Jun 05
Hecho esto hoy. Tan fácil, ¡tan delicioso!
Pati Jinich
Jun 08
Yay, gracias Ricardo! De verdad es muy facil hornear este pastel 😉
Chi gal
Apr 05
Can I melt the chocolate in the microwave? Also do you recommend 70% or above civao? Thnx
Pati Jinich
Apr 06
Yes Chi, I guess you can use the microwave, just be careful because I know the chocolate can burn easily. 70% is good 😉
Jocelyn
Mar 08
Excellent
Made it today
Moist and smooth inside but mine did not crack
Pati Jinich
Mar 08
Great job Jocelyn, bravo!
Kayleigh
Nov 25
Pati, thinking of using this for a trifle, do you think it will hold up?
Thanks!
Pati Jinich
Nov 30
Give it a try, Kayleigh!
Katherine
Nov 22
One of the best yet easiest chocolate cakes ever! Thanks, Pati!
Pati Jinich
Nov 25
Thank you, Katherine 😄.
Barbara-Anne Patterson
Oct 03
Could I make this keto by adding Steve and leaving out the confectioner’s sugar?
Pati Jinich
Oct 04
You can for sure adapt my recipes to meet your nutritional needs, Barbara-Anne. I recommend you follow the Keto recommendations.
Kerry
Aug 17
I made this cake recently and now it is my new favorite chocolate cake! Great flavor and texture with minimal effort. I particular liked your suggestion to serve it with fresh fruit.
Can this cake also be made in a food processor without changing the texture? (My blender is broken!)
Pati Jinich
Aug 20
I’m so happy that it is your new favorite cake, Kerry! You can use a food processor, no problem.
Cathy Dellinger
Jul 30
Is it possible to make this a day or two ahead? I’m having a large party here, need to make two and would like to do as little as possible the day of other than setting up. Thanks!!
Pati Jinich
Aug 09
You can, Cathy! I store this cake outside of the refrigerator, and it keeps covered for a week in great shape. It also refrigerates and freezes well, just bring it up to room temp to serve.
Ed M.
Jul 09
My sister in law is diabetic , suggestions for sugar free version
Pati Jinich
Jul 10
I haven’t made a sugar-free version, but some other people in the comments have used sugar substitutes like Splenda with success. Good luck, Ed!
Erik W
Jun 27
Saw you make this on your show. I could swear you used a leavener like baking powder. Seems like without a leavener it would turn out like a souffle.
Pati Jinich
Jul 01
No baking powder is needed in this cake…it will be nice and gooey.
Linda Gonzales
Jun 22
Pati!! Eres de maravilla….me encantan tus programas…a mi esposo también..prepare el filte de tilapia. y el cocktel de Camarón…el flourless cake…MMM..ojala y sigas teneniendo éxito..para Seguir viendo tus programas…MIL GRACIAS!!
Pati Jinich
Jun 23
Mil gracias, Linda!
Yespat
May 27
Can this cake be made from roasted and salted pistachios? They are my favorite nut. Your almond leche cake was such a hit, i’d Like to try this one too. Thanks!
Pati Jinich
Jun 03
Sure! You can use pistachios, but make sure to use unsalted pistachios. Enjoy, Yespat!
Iris
May 01
Hi Pati,
Love this cake and have been making it for years. I have to substitute butter (unfortunately) and use coconut oil. Would you recommend another substitution? Also, I reduce the sugar by 1/2, and wonder if that alters the structure of the cake, because it comes out rather short. Any ideas on that? It’s still delicious!!
Pati Jinich
May 24
Not sure… but please give it a try and let me know!
karina
Apr 30
Hi can we use almonds instead, will white chocolate be ok ,a nice white cake , am thinking for my hubbys birthday , he loves white chocolate
Pati Jinich
May 16
Yes you can use almonds…or you can also give this recipe a try Karina: http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/almond-and-chocolate-leche-cake/ And I’ve never tried it with white chocolate…but give it a try! I hope your husband has a great birthday.
Laura
Apr 18
I cannot wait to make this for Easter😁. Thank you so much! Love ❤️ that it is flourless
Pati Jinich
Apr 18
Have a great Easter, Laura!
DSBingham
Apr 16
I’ve been making this cake for a decade. It’s so genius and easy, it’s literally foolproof. I only make it on Passover and now the family is so excited to eat it each year.
Pati Jinich
Apr 17
I’m honored that the cake is part of your Passover tradition!
Sherrylyn
Mar 21
I honestly cannot wait to try this recipe!!
Pati Jinich
Mar 24
Yay!
Ameri
Feb 07
Nos encanta. Lo he servido varias veces a mi familia y siempre es delicioso. Gracias por la receta.
Pati
Feb 14
Mil gracias, Ameri!
Alma Warner
Jan 21
Delicious delicious “Chocolate Pecan Cake”
Easy to make. Everyone loves it
Pati
Jan 21
Awesome!
Jennifer Christie
Jan 19
Wonderful quick and easy dessert but next time I’ll use the food processor. Hard to get batter out of the blender.
Pati
Jan 21
So glad you enjoyed the cake, Jennifer!
Denisse Garcia
Oct 08
Oh my Goodness ! This recipe is phenomenal the minute I saw you put it together , I knew I must try it super simple and stunning ! Seriously it doesn’t get easier than blending a cake mix before baking ! Pati you are amazing Thank you for sharing your knowledge and passion for Food with us 💕 Once baked the cake was a true beauty to look at Inused parchment paper to bake in a glass Pyrex turned out fab , everyone gave it two thumbs up 💕
Pati
Oct 08
Oh thank you so much, Denisse!
Bullock family
Aug 12
One our families favorite!!! Easy to get all five kids involved as well!! Thank you for sharing!!
Pati
Aug 13
Oh thank you Bullock Family! I hope you have lots more fun kitchen adventures together!
Johanna
Aug 05
Would it be good for a diabetic? I made it before with only 1/4 cup of sugar. Just as good. Thanks for the recipe.
We all love watching your show. You have such a bubbly personality and it is catching! Thanks!
Pati
Aug 07
Thank you for tuning in, Johanna. You can always adapt my recipes to meet your dietary needs.
Heather Dawn Edwards
Jul 04
Please make more flourless recipe .
I am a Nana now . I am going to make this
for Sunday supper this weekend.
Wondering can make it with another,
Type of nut? Pati thanks for all the great
Recipe and inspiration to my meals.
Pati
Jul 05
This cake is so great with all kinds of nuts, Heather! And have you also tried this flourless cake yet? http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/recipe/flourless-almond-and-porto-cake/
Brian K
Mar 31
I made this yesterday for the Jewish holiday of Passover and brought it to our seder dinner – we aren’t supposed to eat bread. It was a big hit with everyone. Thanks for sharing your family recipe.
Pati
Apr 02
Thank YOU Brian. I hope you have a Happy Passover.
Andrea B
Mar 26
My 14 yo son and I watch your program and had to try this recipe. It was so easy to create and a breeze to clean up too. We baked and sculpted a Chocolate Ribbon Cake from Julia Child and that cake took me 11hours. Albeit was delicious the ease of this recipe has won me over. I will make it for brunch this weekend!
Pati
Mar 26
Oh I hope you and your son had fun in the kitchen!
Debbie N
Feb 22
Hi Pati, love your show. I am married to a Mexican but I am not. Mexican food has always been my favorite food. When I was a little girl I would always choose tacos for my birthday dinner. My mom was an excellent southern cook & would kind of cringe when I requested them. She was a good sport though & would fry corn tortillas until I got my fill. I usually ate about 6 as I had a very hearty appetite! Plus more for my dad, sister & herself. They were just ground beef tacos but they were delicious! In my 40 years of marriage I have made many different Mexican dishes, including tacos, of course! Your show has inspired me to try even more different types of meals. I really want to make this cake, but was wondering if it has to be baked in a springform pan? Thanks Pati.
P.S. I love when you cook with your son’s. I have 2 boys & they both are really good cooks. My younger son is a vegetarian & he is very creative in the kitchen.
Pati
Feb 23
Thank you for sharing your story, Debbie! It sounds like you have lots of fun in the kitchen. For this cake, you can use another 9-inch pan and wax paper too.
Carol
Feb 21
I am amazed how simple and delicious this cake is..Definitely putting the recipe in my favorites category…
Pati
Feb 22
Oh wow! Your favorites category…so happy to hear that Carol.
Kurt
Feb 15
Now I understand why your husband wanted to eat the whole cake 😀 So easy to make yet so delicious!!!
Pati
Feb 16
Hahaha…so glad you liked it Kurt!
Terri
Feb 14
I am gluten free and this cake is delicious with low sugar cream cheese frosting!
Pati
Feb 15
😄
Shweta
Feb 14
Hi Patti, I am a huge fan of yours. I love ur style of cooking. Can you please tell me the substitute for Egg in this recipe?? I am a vegetarian from India. Thanks in advance. Looking forward for your reply.
Pati
Feb 19
You can use whatever you usually use as an egg substitute, Shweta… and let me know how it goes!
Anita K.
Feb 14
I can’t wait to make this one. It always makes me sad when the gluten-free people in the extended family (especially kids) get left out of the holiday dessert table, so this seems like something EVERYONE can share and nobody will feel excluded!
Pati
Feb 15
Yes everyone can love this cake 🙂
Greta Wayland
Jan 22
I made this today and it is amazing! Sprinkled it with powdered sugar and put a few raspberries on top! My husband is gluten free and there aren’t many desserts he can eat but he loved this one! Great and simple recipe!
Pati
Jan 23
So glad to hear that your husband (and you) enjoyed it!
Jessaleah
Dec 31
Pati, what more can I say other than …Thank you, thank you, thank you and you are such a wonderful person! I just love your show, I watch it on PBS every day! You are my favorite chef and have been such an inspiration to my cooking. I have learned so much about Mexico, the different foods and so many amazing ingredients from watching your show! All i wanted for Christmas were your cookbooks and a comal. Although I didn’t get the books, I finally have my comal, which is obviously so very vital to many of your recipes. Tonight, for new years eve I am baking this gorgeous cake. It is my second desert recipe of yours that I am trying. The first was the almond leche cake, which was absolutely delicious, the best chocolate cake I have ever had by far! This one seems really similar, so I am seeing which one I like best…Oh and my almond cake came out super moist, just like you said, and had the high edges and a sunken middle, which most people don’t realize is normal for these types of cakes, so to make mine just as pretty as the picture i took a super sharp knife and cut off the high edges around the whole thing to make it even with the center, then sprinkled my powdered sugar. Hopefully this one will be as great, wish me luck! Happy New years Path to you and your family!!!
Pati
Jan 02
Good luck Jessaleah! And thank you for your lovely comment! I hope you have lots of fun with your new comal.
Anonymous
Jan 04
Just as i thought, this cake was just as delicious…super moist and so flavorful! Im torn between the almond leche cake and this one, but just as your hubby loves this one, my fiancé loves this one best too! Thank you Pati and of course Nana José too! Made my New Year’s even better.
Pati
Jan 04
🙂
Murray and Stacey Israel
Dec 29
Hola Patti – Love the cake! It was easy to make and gluten free as well. A winner in my book.
We will be making this cake for the Jewish holiday of Passover as there is no leavening in it.
Thank you and have a great New year.
Pati
Dec 29
Happy New Year to you too!
Maya
Dec 23
This is so easy, it becomes a hazard to my health! Why, because you can make it so quickly. Love it!
Pati
Dec 26
Hahaha….well I’m glad you love it!
Rose Cox
Dec 17
Thank you. This is so good and perfect for those who can’t have gluten. If you use Splenda instead of sugar, it’s even low-carb. Fantastic!!!! Thank you, so much.
Pati
Dec 18
Thank YOU Rose!
Eve
Dec 10
Hi Pati, Just made this today and it was lovely. I love your show, it’s very very good. I hope you will have more gluten free recipes in the future. Not many chef will do that.
Thanks!
Pati
Dec 11
Thank you so much Eve!
Nichole
Nov 23
Hola Pati♡ I can’t wait to make this cake. However I do have a few questions do I have to use a springform pan? Also could wax paper be used? And lastly do you have a recipe for ropa Vieja I’m Cuban and that’s one recipe that my grandmother never shared with me before she passed away. I really enjoy your show cooking is one of my passions thank you for responding God bless Happy Thanksgiving
Pati
Dec 01
Hola! Yes you can use another 9-inch pan and wax paper too. I love Ropa Vieja too!
Christine
Nov 21
Pati,
Do the pecans have to be toasted first or do you just use them from the bag?
Thank you
Pati
Nov 22
Straight from the bag :).
DrJimM
Nov 15
I made this cake this afternoon. Really easy, and REALLY good. I have, however, converted ALL my recipes to metric. All the dry ingredients in one bowl and all the liquid in another. Weighing in grams is much easier and more accurate. I can remember trying to dig all the shortening out of a measuring cup, but never again. For instance, this recipe calls for 1/4 cup butter which translates into 57 grams. 6 ounces of chocolates converts to 70 grams. I put a pyrex glass bowl on the scale, add the chocolate, zero the scale and weigh the butter, put the bowl over simmering water and stir the 2 together. The pecans and sugar are easily measured, but I still weigh the sugar for accuracy. I have a chart of all my ingredients for baking and can whip up a cake or cookies in a flash. I guess that, because I taught the metric system to intermediate school children, and later worked as an industrial chemist, I am more comfortable with that system. They still call it the British system of weights and measures, but they use metric in the U.K. Hmmm, makes one wonder. I seriously suggest you try it, you just might be a convert – and DO try this cake.
Pati
Nov 17
That’s wonderful that you are so precise Dr. Jim, and I’m glad you enjoy the cake!
Celine
Nov 12
Is it preferable to refrigerate or keep this cake at room temperature one day before serving it?
Pati
Nov 13
I bring it to room temperature when serving it.
Sami
Nov 09
You are the best cooking &sweet thanks for every thing
Pati
Nov 10
Thank YOU Sami!
Michelle
Sep 25
Sooooo… BEAUTIFUL!!! YUMMO!!??
Pati
Sep 25
Yay!!!
Julia
Sep 06
Hi Pati: I’m a fan of your show, soy de Cd. Juarez asi que me gusto ver que una Chef Mexicana este poniendo en alto la cocina Mexicana. I have made this cake a few time, it is delicious. I have made slight modifications to it, nothing major. I double up most ingredients and substitute sugar with agave, so yummy! I’ve also used different types of nuts and they are all very nice in the recipe, I’ve added pieces of nuts once the batter is in the baking dish for a little extra touch. Here are the measurements I use:
1/2 cup unsalted butter plus 2 tablespoon for buttering the pan
12 ounces bittersweet chocolate
2 cups pecans
12 large eggs
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup agave
Pinch of kosher or coarse sea salt
Pati
Sep 07
Hola Julia! You are always welcome to adapt my recipes to your taste and needs!
Debbie
Sep 02
I loved the cake. It was simple to make and tasted so good.
Pati
Sep 07
Super! Thank you Debbie.
Michele
Jul 23
Can you replace the butter with coconut oil.
Pati
Jul 27
You can certainly try and let me know how it turned out!
audrey
Jun 05
Hi, made this cake today – bought my first springform pan (yipee!), but they only had a 10 inch, not a 9 inch as called for in recipe, so increased recipe by 1/3 and worked out perfectly! Lovely flavor, not too sweet. thank you for sharing the recipe! It was very much enjoyed 🙂 oxo
Pati
Jun 05
Yay!
Katy
May 17
Will this cake freeze well? If so, when it is time to serve it, should I set it out to room temperature or heat it up in the oven?
Pati
May 19
Yes! The cake freezes beautifully Katy. When you are ready to east it just bring it to room temperature before eating.
Dee
May 14
I just made this cake for my Mom (for Mother’s Day). We doubled the batch and it had to cook longer. Next time I’ll do 1 batch instead. It tasted great. Thank you for sharing the recipe. I really enjoy watching your show on PBS.
Pati
May 15
Thank YOU for trying the recipe Dee!
Jake
Apr 25
We are huge fans of the show! Wish it was available on DVD. We have made this several times and it was always delicious, but tried it with cocoa powder last time and it separated while cooking. Is there a successful way to make it with cocoa powder? Thanks so much!
Pati
Apr 28
Hi Jake! This cake really works best as it’s written. But you can try Juju’s chocolate cake, that one uses cocoa powder! http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/recipe/jujus_birthday_cake/
Roxana
Mar 11
I made this wonderful cake for my husband for Valentine’s day too. Le encanto! Quiere otro! Gracias Paty you are the best!?
Saludos desde el Valle Central, California!
Pati
Mar 13
Super!
Rene' Torrez
Feb 15
Yum I me for valentine’s! Baked in a heart shaped pan. Thank you Patti! I’m married to a Mexican and he loves when I cook things from Mexico.
Pati
Feb 17
A heart shaped pan…what a sweet idea. I hope your husband loved it Rene.
Kim
Feb 14
Should the eggs be cold or room temp?
Thanks!
Pati
Feb 16
Room temp is better!
Kim
Feb 18
Thanks!!
Debra
Feb 13
Hi Pati! I made this flourless cake this afternoon, adding pistachios as the nuts, and it turned out so moist and delicious! Thank you for sharing your husbands favorite cake from his Nana Jose!
Pati
Feb 16
Awesome, Debra! Thank you!!
Alexis
Feb 13
Pati,
My cake did come out with hills and valleys….I came out with a rather perfect light chocolate crust dome. Then “sank” perfectly into a nice flat cake. It didn’t have that nice dark color. So, is it because I used bittersweet morsels, rather the expensive block chocolate? I’m sorry that I didn’t pay attention, as I was listening rather than watching you. What did I miss?
Pati
Feb 20
Alexis your cake is perfectly perfect! It flattens out after it cools down because of the ingredients it uses and because it is flourless. Hope you liked the taste!
Lorie Dorrian
Feb 12
Thank you for this recipe!!!! It reminds me of my grandama’s whacky cake. That one uses flour, but no eggs!!!
Love its simplicity!
Pati
Feb 13
Your grandma’s whacky cake sounds so interesting!
Jessica
Oct 03
I honestly couldn’t see how this cake would taste good but when you made this cake for your husband, the look on his face was very convincing that I had to give this cake a try…. it’s DELICIOUS!! I went to a small gathering and it was a HIT! I love your shows, thank you 🙂
Pati
Oct 04
YAY!!!! Thank you, Jessica!
Jes
Jul 24
I am out of pecans….do you think almonds would be a good substitute? LOVE your show on PBS & your website, thanks!
Pati
Jul 25
Yeah!!! Thanks, Jes!
Kim
Jul 04
Hi Pati! My kids and I love your show! (My daughter loves your accent and the way you say salsa!) I made this cake today and it didnt come out flat..at all. One edge raised up like a big wave and the rest is all hills and valleys. Do you know what could have caused this? My batter was a bit stiff before baking, not sure if thats normal or not. It didnt want to simply pour out of the blender. Maybe I over blended? Anyway, thanks for any help you might be able to give! Cant wait to try some more of your delicious recipes!
Pati
Jul 05
It should have hills and valleys, which makes it create a delicious uneven chocolaty crust in some areas. It is one of my favorite things about this cake… =)
Mari Tamanaha
Jul 02
I love this cake!!! Made it last Thanksgiving and it was a hit! Do you have the nutritional info for those on low carb life style? Mahalo- Mari
Pati
Jul 05
I do not at this time but will look into it! I’m happy you like the cake!
Michael Semon
Jun 27
Gluten free, schmooten free… I just love this cake!!!! Pati, I am the Program Manager of a place called Valor Home, a transitional housing facility for homeless veterans, in Akron OH . You and your family have an open invitation to visit (and perhaps cook a meal!) anytime. Did I mention I just love this cake? …Michael
Michelle Lewis
Jun 25
Hi Pati,my kids are dairy free. Would I be able to use a vegan margarine instead of butter?
Pati
Jun 30
Yes absolutely!
Dee
Jun 24
Came out yummy. My husband want 3 of them next time since we have 3 spring form pans. 🙂 I made one change-I couldn’t find bitter sweet so I used semi-sweet and then only added half the sugar. It seemed to be fine but will try bitter sweet in the future when I have more time to get to a traditional grocer. I do have one questions Pecans are pretty pricey-have you ever tried it with walnuts or other nuts?
Pati
Jun 30
Yes!! It’s great with other nuts!
David
Jun 13
This cake is soooo good! Being gluten free I was anxious to try it. If you love chocolate this is the cake for you!
Pati
Jun 14
I’m thrilled you liked it David!!
Martha
Feb 15
I am such a big fan! Love, love, love your show. While I’ve enjoyed many chefs’ teachings over the years, your cooking I would eat every day! Your recipes are so much more than ingredients…they are treasured family stories and/or history lessons. I appreciate the complexity of flavors you bring to every dish. I cannot eat peppers but even when you have them as an ingredient, the dish has so many flavor layers, the peppers are never missed.
This cake is perfection, especially for my gluten free family members. Thank you for sharing so much!
Pati
Feb 16
Martha, thank you thank you! What a kind note! I am thrilled that you and your family enjoy my recipes. =)
Margaret Olivares
Dec 31
Hi,
I first made this cake in July 2015 for my mother in law for what turned out to be her last birthday. She loved it! On December 29th I served it again in her honor at a gathering we had after her Memorial Mass. All the generations loved it!
bernadine pipkin
Dec 17
Hi Patti,hope you and your family have a peaceful holiday.I enjoy your program so much. It’s just wonderful!
Annie Nagashima
Aug 23
The recipe is the perfect answer to a diabetic’s sweet tooth! Since the carbs from flour wasn’t there, my reading was much lower than when I’d have regular cake. I used a Ninja, but I think that was a mistake. It was harder to clean the blades to get the yummy batter. Will use my Cuisinart next time. I will also send this to my friend who has celiac disease. I think it’ll be okay. I looove your show.
Pati
Aug 25
Hola Annie, Thank you so much! Good to know it works for diabetics. And, yes, you can recommend it to your friend; it is gluten free!
spiridion
Jul 18
paty primero mis respetos a ti y tu familia disfruto mucho de tus resetas las que puedo ver esta me a gustado y gracias por permitirme prepararla a mi familia le a encantado y tienes uans galletas y otros postre enfin muchas delicias saludos y que tengas muchos exitos
Pati
Jul 19
Muchas gracias por tu mensaje 🙂
Nancy Kepford
Jul 09
Patti, love your show and the simple down home recipes with easily found ingredients! As my hubby and I both love seafood and fish your recipes today will be my menu this coming weekend. We are 60 and 64 respectively and as you get older the taste buds go on the fritz so mexican recipes are a staple at our house. Your recipes have been a wonderful addition! Hope to see you cooking for many years to come and love your travels too! By the way what were the little fish you were shown fishing for today?
Pati
Jul 09
Those tiny little fish are called charales. They are the white fish or “pescado blanco” from Patzcuaro, but when they are very tiny. Thanks for watching my show!
sue
Jul 08
could you use sucanat or brown rice syrup instead of white sugar in this cake recipe & same amount?
Pati
Jul 08
Same amount for brown rice syrup…
Margaret Olivares
Jul 05
I made this cake today to celebrate my mother -in-laws 82nd birthday. Mary Louise Meraz Olivares loved it! Neither she nor anyone else could believe there was no flour in the cake . This is a fantastic recipe. Thank you!
Pati
Jul 05
We love it at home too, specially mu husband…
Adriana Muñoz
Jun 26
Hola Paty, soy uno de tus más fieles seguidoras me encantan tus recetas, he aprendido mucho Y te estoy muy agradecida, yo soy de Guadalajara y me encantaría que publicaras tus recetas también en español, gracias por tus consejos y tus tips, tienes una maravillosa familia!! Me encanta que enseñes tantos lugares en México se agradecen todos tus reportajes, que Dios te bendiga
Pati
Jun 26
Muchas gracias, Adriana! Voy a tratar de publicarlas también en español.
Julia Byrd
Jun 11
Hi, Patti. I love your show so much. I gotta try this cake, could I use a 9inch glass brownie pan instead of springform pan?
Pati
Jun 12
Yes, you can use a 9-inch brownie pan instead! Thank you for watching the show!!
Heidi
Jun 10
Have you tried adding cinnamon to this?
Heidi
Jun 08
Have you ever made this with cinnamon for more of a “Mexican chocolate” taste?
Pati
Jun 12
I haven’t, but sounds great! Go for it!!
jo
Jun 07
This cake looks wonderful. I can’t wait to try it. My family and I love watching your show. My daughter (19) has been inspired to try cooking because you make it look so fun and easy. ¡Gracias!
Pati
Jun 08
Thank you!! I hope your daughter makes you many amazing meals!
cathyb
Apr 21
Thank you so much. I put a doily on top and dust with powdered sugar. Absolutely the best cake ever.
Pati
Apr 22
Thank you for making it, Cathy!
Angela
Mar 31
This is always my go to cake, with a toddler always at my feet it so easy to throw together. It’s very rich and decadent, I always have to make two if I’m taking it to a party (one for home of course)! I’m not big on pecans so I always sub hazelnuts, turns out perfect every time! Thank you!
Pati
Mar 31
Hm: Hazelnuts sounds even better!
Lori
Mar 01
Hello! Would like to try this recipe at Christmas with roasted chestnuts, but unsure how to measure them. Would doing a rough chop before measuring give an accurate measurement?
Also, this may seem weird, but would you please consider being a voice/reader for an audio book? Your voice is so sweet & soothing!
Keep up the great job!
Pati
Mar 03
Hola Lori, Yes, a rough chop would work for measuring 1 cup of the chestnuts! I’m laughing so hard over the voice for an audio book! Thank you for your comments!!
Tapi
Feb 15
I LOVE your show on Create! Could this cake be made with pistachios?
Thanks for your contagious love of food and your presentation of so many delicious recipes from Mexico!
Pati
Feb 17
Thank you for watching, Tapi! Yes, you may try the flourless chocolate cake with pistachios. Let me know how it turns out!
Samantha
Jan 14
Love this recipe!! I have made it 3 different times. Once I made 2 for a large family gathering. It was a huge hit, not even crumbs left! Told everyone it was your recipe. My family and I love your show. My hubby and I sit down with the 4 kiddos and watch. You make us sooooo hungry! Thank you for the good food and family time! Blessings, hugs and Besos!
Pati
Jan 15
Thank YOU all for tuning in!
Phyllis G Davis
Jan 13
I have made this cake on three occasions and absolutely love it. .as do my guests. Thank you Pati
Adrian
Dec 31
Hi Pati,
I’ve tried a few of your recipes and loved them. I’m trying this one the flour less cake today. I just one question. Do we need to toast the pecans? Thank you!
Pati
Jan 06
Hi Adrian, So happy to hear you are trying some of my recipes! No need to toast the pecans for the cake.
JOANNA MONTAQUE
Dec 02
I saw your show this past weekend, and the flourless cake recipe was easy to make. hi how ever adapted it to a sugarless recipe using Splenda as I follow a low carb diet. it came out wonderful such great rich taste and so decadent. thank you, pati.
Pati
Dec 04
Hola Joanna, Great idea to try it sugarless! Thank you for sharing!!
Chad
Nov 30
Pati, my wife was recently diagnosed with a gluten intolerance and we saw you making this recipe on TV and were overjoyed that it did not call for any flour. We made it last night and it was wonderful! Now my wife can add another dessert to her choices of gluten free foods. Hope you continue to make gluten free foods in future shows. Thanks!
Pati
Dec 01
Hola Chad, So excited to hear you and your wife enjoyed the flourless chocolate cake! You might also like this one: http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2010/03/flourless_almond_cake/
Laura Boyle
Sep 02
Hola Paty: A mi esposo y a mí nos encanta tu programa, yo soy Mexicana y él es Americano, pero a los dos nos encanta la comida!! Amo tus recetas y tu acento al hablar inglés yo hablo igual jajaja. Voy a comprar tu libro , me encanta que México tenga una imagen tan bonita y positiva como lo representa tu persona. Un gran abrazo y felicidades !!
Pati
Sep 02
Muchas gracias, Laura!
Caris O.
Aug 31
Hi Pati,
This is the fourth recipe I’ve tried from your show… I made it today because my husband and I had some friends over. I topped it with the confectioners’ sugar… Another instant hit!! I love that your recipes are not hard to follow, and they taste amazing!! I love love LOVE your show!!
Pati
Aug 31
I am so happy you are trying more of my recipes!
JenQ
Aug 13
Hi Pati, just made this for my family. It comes together so quickly and tastes great! I topped it with whipped cream and raspberries. For next time, I’m thinking almonds and orange . . . the possibilities are endless!
Pati
Aug 14
Hola Jen, So happy your family enjoyed the cake! Sounds delicious with almonds and orange…go for it!
genevieve
Aug 11
has anyone tried it with coconut flour?
Sidney
Aug 11
A really great and simple recipe. I’ve made it about 3 times so far. Each time was a bit different. The first time I stuck to the recipe exactly and it came out fantastic. Then for the other two I used Coconut oil rather than Butter (Works almost as well since both are solid at cooler temperatures although Coconut oil does begin to melt sooner than butter) and substituted Almonds for the Pecans (Although Pecans are a natural mix with the cocoa since they have a dark Maple type of flavor). Basically you can play endlessly. I should also note that I use Dutch Processed Baking Cocoa Powder. Works really well. I may be putting too much since it is pure Cocoa Powder and this makes the cake a bit more bitter and less sweet but this is desired by my wife and I.
Thank you for the recipe Pati. I look forward to all of your other recipes.
Pati
Aug 11
Hi Sidney, Great that you are experimenting with this recipe! Thank you for sharing!!
Kalinamai
Jul 30
I love that you are in Michoacán for your third season! My husband is from there. I am ready to print some more of your wonderful recipes to comfort my husband from missing home. Thank you for all your hard work:)
Pati
Jul 31
With pleasure!
Virginia Warburton
Jul 23
Pati, thank you so much for the recipe. It sounds soo good. (I can’t eat the hot stuff.)
Just wondering, how do you happen to be in DC?
So glad for your show.
Thanks again, Virginia.
Pati
Jul 24
Thank you, Virginia! I hope you try the cake sometime. I moved to DC many years ago with my husband and oldest son.
Rose Figueroa
Jul 10
Hi Pati , enjoy watching your show. Excited to try your flourless chocolate cake . I have made your choco-flan and family loved it. Thanks for sharing your recipes. Rose
Pati
Jul 10
Thank you, Rose!! So happy your family liked the chocoflan; let me know how the cake turns out!
Jackie
Jul 03
Looks delicious!! I will do this recipe instead of the cake from the box, can’t wait to surprise the hubby. Thanks again for the wonderful Mexican recipes you showcase on your show. Gracias por la presentacion!! Felicidades!!
Pati
Jul 03
Muchas gracias, Jackie! I am pretty sure you will love this cake… we LOVE it at home!
Yazmin
Jun 10
Delicioso!!!!! Me pregunto si podría hacerlo sin chocolate para que solo fuera de nuez, añadiendo un poco mas de nuez, qué opinas?
Pati
Jun 11
Hmmmm, quieres probar un pastel sólo de almendra? Mira, Yazmin: http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2011/04/flourless_almond_and_porto_cake/
Dan B
Jun 08
Saw your show the other day. Tried your receipt and agree it couldn’t be simpler or more delicious. Thanks !
Pati
Jun 08
Great to hear, Dan!
maluE
May 30
as a fan of yours and your show since the beginning, i must tell you how much i’m enjoying season 3! .. luv seeing your sons and hubby – and your visits to mexico, your family there (esp papa 😉 .. you enlighten me about all the choices i have at good mexican restaurants .. and your simpler recipes inspire me to do mexican at home more often.
i’m not a confident baker so this easy dessert goes into my MAKE SOON file ..
thank you, pati!
karen
May 25
Just wondering if this can be made without the nuts, or if the cake will fail without the nuts (with so few ingredients I imagine they might be an important part of the cake’s structure)? I have a nut-free family but would love to try this…
Pati
May 26
I suggest you try this one instead, Karen http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2012/09/jujus_birthday_cake/
Priscilla
May 30
This looks really good to me too! I have a child with a nut allergy. I’m gonna try using sunflower seeds, instead. It just might work. I’ve made sunbutter cookies, and they taste pretty good. So maybe that substitution will work.
Pati
May 30
Hola Priscilla, Go for it!! Let me know how it turns out with the sunflower seeds…
Pati
May 30
That is a GREAT idea!
Lori
Mar 01
Hi! How did the sunflower seeds work? Raw or roasted?
Thinking about using pumpkin seeds, chestnuts at Christmas.
Patricia Rose
May 15
Pati,
You are so sweet and cheerful, it is wonderful to see your enthusiasm for life. I am making this cake soon. Thank you so much!
Patricia
Pati
May 16
Thanks Patricia! I hope you like it… my husband LOVES it.
Pilar
May 07
Thank you for this easy and reliable recipe. We can’t eat grain and we missed having a luxurious treat. This cake fills every craving. I added a little extra cocoa powder and this gives it a more cake-like consistency. Everyone should try this recipe at least once (but it will probably become a staple). Gracias, Pati….me encanta tu programa!
Pati
May 08
Gracias, Pilar!!
Mike
Apr 30
Made this today and it is absolutely delicious! This will become a staple in my house, great recipe. Try it, you won’t regret it.
Jess
Apr 30
Patti, this cake is a winner. I made it tonight and my husband asked for seconds. Thank you for sharing!
Pati
Apr 30
Well, my husband finishes right in front of me if I don’t take it away… Glad it works for yours too!
leanne
Apr 29
As the (middle-aged) child of an excellent cook who loves to experiment, I was raised on international cuisine. The ingredients for this cake are so similar to the classic French flourless chocolate cake – but it’s simplicity make it very Impossible Pie-like. I am hoping it will become a family favorite for my own foodies. Thanks for the passion you bring to your show and to sharing with us the joy you bring to your family table. It is so evident in your show.
Pati
Apr 30
Hola Leanne, Thank you so much for your comments! Hope your family likes the chocolate cake, too; let me know what they think…
Ruthie
Apr 27
really; I found the flourless, chocolate cake. have to try this and the pacifica shrimp cocktail… can’t wait till the weekend to get my ingredients!
looking forward to tasting these fab dishes… first time to see your show last Saturday…
thanks
Ruthie
Pati
Apr 27
Thanks for watching, Ruthie!
robert
Apr 24
I wish Patty would make this cake without butter. Maybe she could revise this recipe, and use apple sauce, or pears, or…..something so the cake would be reduced fat.
Pati
Apr 24
Robert: you should play with it and let me know how you like it!
sharon
Apr 21
I used Stevia instead of the sugar, as you suggested and my friend really enjoyed it.
perla perez
Apr 19
Dear Pati
I truly love watching your shows. I love how you are so proud of being Mexican and you enlighten your view of the beauty of Mexico and wonderful qualities!!! Thanks you again for being you!
Perla Marina
Pati
Apr 20
Thank you so much, Perla, for tuning in. You are so kind to leave me this lovely message!
mary
Apr 19
Love watching you cook! Your recipes are so easy and delicious…
Pati
Apr 20
Gracias, Mary!
sharon
Apr 15
can this be made for a diabetic?
Pati
Apr 16
Hola Sharon, You may try it with the sugar substitute of your choice instead of using sugar. However, I would only use half amount or less of sugar substitute, since sugar substitutes tend to be much sweeter than sugar.
Ldiaz
Apr 14
I love you show, especially all the footage from your travels….
Pati
Apr 16
Thank you!!
Marytere
Apr 04
Pati,
Esta increible el pastel y muy facil. Me encantan todas tus recetas; tengo tu libro. Las medidas siempre estan correctas y todas las recetas estan deliciosas.
MG
Pati
Apr 05
Que bueno que te gustan! Espero que pruebes muchas más!
Judi Suttles
Mar 31
I made this on Friday and all I can say is:”thank you Nana Jose!” This is so delicious that every time you walk through the kitchen you want a little pinch of that cake. I really think it improves over the next day. Also, this is the easiest cake I have ever made.
Judi Suttles
Mar 27
Pati,
Loved this show. I made the Coctel de Camarones and it was delicioso. Tonight I am trying the flourless chocolate cake. It sounds wonderful!
Pati
Mar 28
Thank you for watching, Judi!! So happy to hear you are trying recipes.
Karen
Mar 15
Question – Do you serve this hot, right out of the oven, or does it need to be totally cooled?
Pati
Mar 15
You can serve it hot, warm or cold! Doesn’t need to be totally cooled at all.
Samantha Bergey
Mar 14
My husband who happens to be from mexico city loves this cake, but says to him it tastes more like a brownie. Is it suppose to taste like a brownie did I do something wrong?
Pati
Mar 14
It does taste a bit like brownie, Samantha!!
Samantha Bergey
Mar 14
My husband who happens to be from mexico city loves this cake, but says to him it tastes more like a brownie. Is it suppose to taste like a browniebor did I do something wrong?
Nancy
Mar 08
Pati,
Love this recipe. Saw you on Create TV last weekend. I have made it 3 times all ready. Family loves it. It is so easy. We have pecan trees and we raise chickens so we have lots of eggs. Perfect recipe.
Nancy
Pati
Mar 08
Perfect!
Mark
Feb 26
Can I substitute almonds for the pecans and still expect good results?
My wife hates “oily” nuts like walnuts and pecans. But she will eat almonds.
Pati
Feb 26
Absolutely!
Cindy
Feb 25
I am hooked on Pati’s show and cannot wait until the next episode. I was the star of our Sunday family dinner thanks to Nana Jose’s Flourless Chocolate Pecan Cake. I’m not telling my family how ridiculously easy this was to make.
Pati
Feb 25
So glad to hear Cindy! Let them think you slaved at it…
jerry hollenback
Feb 23
Patti – best and easiest cake I have ever made.
Pati
Feb 23
Nice!
Lisa
Feb 22
Can you please modify recipe if using a 10-1/4″ spring form pan instead? Or your best judgement.
Thank you!
LMC
Pati
Feb 23
Lisa,
I’d just remove it form the oven 5 to 6 minutes before: give it a try!
Lisa
Feb 24
Thanks Pati, but I ruined it a bit; went 10 over and did not use bittersweet, but organic without any sugar in it, chocolate;, adding a bit more sugar to compensate. Was too dry; my fault.
Was so simple and yet my thoughts were elsewhere.. Will try another time.
lk
Jul 08
baking is chemistry, you just can’t change the formula and expect the results to replicate the original recipe, people do this all the time and report a bad results.
macy
Feb 17
nana jose has a gem of a cake here! truly simple to make. used extra bitter chocolate. so delicious! thank you!
Pati
Feb 17
Good idea!
Kasi
Feb 16
Amazing!