If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a decadently soft, buttery texture, then this Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s one of those irresistible treats that feels like a warm hug in dessert form—moist, fudgy, and just sweet enough to keep you reaching for another bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a comforting homemade indulgence, this cake promises to deliver that perfect gooey, chocolatey bliss every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward mastering this Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role, from the intense chocolate depth of the fudge cake mix to the creamy tang of the cream cheese, combining for a luscious texture and unmistakably rich flavor.
- 15.25 ounce box dark chocolate fudge cake mix: Provides the deep chocolate foundation with built-in sweetness and cocoa flavor.
- 1 cup salted butter (divided): Adds richness and moisture; the salt balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Offers a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty contrast.
- 3 large eggs (divided): Binds ingredients while giving structure and a tender crumb.
- 8 ounce cream cheese: Creates that signature gooey, creamy layer that makes this cake unforgettable.
- 1 pound powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese mixture for richness without grittiness.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate punch in the gooey layer.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out the chocolate flavors with warmth.
- Garnish options (fresh berries, whipped cream, ice cream, powdered sugar, fresh mint): Perfect finishing touches to elevate presentation and balance richness.
How to Make Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 13×9-inch baking dish. This step is essential so your cake doesn’t stick and you get those perfectly clean pieces when cutting. A well-prepped pan makes all the difference in presentation and ease of serving.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Crust
In a large bowl, combine the dark chocolate fudge cake mix with half of your melted butter, the chopped pecans, and one egg. Stir until this mixture is evenly combined. This mixture forms the crust, so press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. The pecans add a textured crunch to contrast the cake’s soft center, so don’t skip them!
Step 3: Whip Up the Gooey Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth—lumps here can spoil that creamy texture we’re after. Then add the remaining two eggs, beating for another 30 seconds. Next, mix in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder until the mixture is silky and uniform. Finally, fold in the remaining melted butter and the vanilla extract. This smooth, decadent filling is what sets this Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe apart from ordinary brownies or cakes.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Spread the silky cream cheese mixture evenly over your prepared crust in the baking dish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, keeping an eye on the center to ensure it sets just right without overbaking. The goal is that signature gooey texture that yields slightly when you press gently but is definitely baked through.
Step 5: Cool and Finish
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan–this patience pays off big time as the cake firms up into gooey perfection. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if you like a pretty touch, then slice into bars or squares. This Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe really shines when served alongside fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Serve Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh berries or a sprig of mint not only brightens the presentation but also adds a fresh, slightly tart contrast that balances the cake’s luscious sweetness beautifully. Whipped cream or ice cream introduces a cool creaminess that makes each bite even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee, which can help cut through the richness. If you’re serving it as part of a larger dessert spread, consider light fruit salads or fresh citrus segments to refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe layered with alternating fruit compote or drizzled with caramel or raspberry sauce. You can also turn it into individual parfaits by layering cut pieces with whipped cream and berries in glasses—such a crowd-pleasing and elegant presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain that lovely gooey texture without drying out. It stays delicious for up to five days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy every last bite.
Freezing
This cake freezes well! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pieces can be stored up to three months, making it perfect for prepping dessert in advance for special occasions.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave slices for about 20 seconds or warm briefly in a low-temperature oven. The cake’s gooey nature means it softens beautifully upon warming, almost like freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While the dark chocolate fudge cake mix offers the richest chocolate flavor, you can experiment with milk chocolate or even devil’s food cake mixes—just expect some variation in depth and sweetness.
What if I don’t have pecans? Can I leave them out?
Yes, pecans add a nice crunch but are not mandatory. You can omit them, or substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. They provide texture but won’t affect the cake’s gooey charm.
Is this cake very sweet? Can I adjust the sugar?
This recipe is on the sweeter side to balance the cream cheese and chocolate flavors. You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly if you prefer, but keep in mind that it will also affect the texture and consistency of the filling.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Look for a set center that still jiggles slightly but is not liquid. The edges will start to pull away from the pan slightly. Overbaking can dry out the cake, so it’s best to check a few minutes before the time is up.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients, like cocoa powder and vanilla extract, are gluten-free certified. The rest of the process remains the same.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress your friends or simply treat yourself, the Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a surefire winner that combines ease, comfort, and outstanding flavor. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved classic for chocoholics everywhere. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and start baking this deliciously decadent cake today!
Print
Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this rich and decadent Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake that combines a fudgy chocolate cake crust with a creamy, luscious chocolate cream cheese filling. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this dessert is easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 15.25 ounce box dark chocolate fudge cake mix
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish options
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Ice cream
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh mint
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make the crust mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the box of dark chocolate fudge cake mix, 1/2 cup of the melted butter, chopped pecans, and 1 large egg. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Form the crust: Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even crust layer.
- Prepare the filling base: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the remaining 2 large eggs and beat again for about 30 seconds to combine thoroughly.
- Add dry ingredients to filling: Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture. Beat continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Incorporate remaining butter and flavor: Blend the remaining melted butter and vanilla extract into the cream cheese filling, ensuring even distribution.
- Assemble the cake: Spread the creamy chocolate filling evenly over the prepared cake crust in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly gooey for the perfect texture.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to set. Once cooled, optionally dust with powdered sugar. Cut into squares or bars and serve with your choice of fresh berries, whipped cream, or ice cream for an extra special treat.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly gooey for the best texture.
- For variation, try substituting pecans with walnuts or omitting nuts for a nut-free version.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
