Description
This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is an ultra-rich, layered dessert that combines a fudgy chocolate crust with a creamy, gooey filling and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s the ultimate indulgence, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you need a decadent treat to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dessert delivers bakery-quality results straight from your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well combined and press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pecan Filling:
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 2 eggs, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, and beat until creamy and well blended. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Layer the Filling Over the Cake Base:
- Pour the chocolate pecan filling over the cake base in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cake will continue to set as it cools.
- Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Butter: Use unsalted, real butter—not margarine—for the richest flavor and best texture.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps in the topping.
- Cake Mix: Chocolate cake mix is preferred, but a yellow cake mix with added cocoa powder also works.
- Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their flavor and adds a nutty depth.
- Cooling Time: It’s crucial to let the cake cool completely before slicing. The center will continue to set as it cools, giving you that perfect gooey texture without falling apart.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra-decadent finish.
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be made 1 day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.