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
Scale
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.
