Welcome to the ultimate indulgence! If you’ve been on the hunt for a dessert that encapsulates the richness of chocolate, the delightful crunch of pecans, and the luscious creaminess that only a butter cake can provide, then look no further than this Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake recipe. This dessert promises a symphony of flavors that are sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Easy to make yet spectacular in presentation, it’s the ideal choice for hosting parties, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself and your loved ones to a sweet escape.
This cake is as much for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. The combination of the chocolate and buttery filling creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that keeps you coming back for more. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a cake that not only tastes decadent but also has an inviting look. So put on your apron and get ready to whip up something extraordinary. Your adventure into the world of easy desserts starts here!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Decadent Flavor: The fusion of chocolate and pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion—from birthday parties to weeknight treats.
- Irresistible Texture: The creamy, gooey center combined with a chocolate crust delivers the ultimate dessert satisfaction.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into the baking process, it’s crucial to prepare your workspace efficiently to ensure a seamless experience. Start by gathering all of your ingredients: a box of chocolate cake mix, melted butter, eggs, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Having everything at hand will save you valuable time.
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when you’re set to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well with butter or cooking spray; this step is essential for easy removal of the cake later. The right tools, such as mixing bowls, a spatula, and measuring cups, will help streamline your cooking process. Ensure you have a hand mixer or whisk for beating the cream cheese into a velvety texture.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- ½ cup melted butter (unsalted preferred, but salted works too)
- 3 large eggs (divided)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk, based on preference)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for even baking. While the oven warms, get a 9×13-inch baking dish ready by greasing it well. This prevents your delicious creation from sticking, allowing for easy serving and cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and one of the eggs. Use a spatula or mixing spoon to mix until a dough-like consistency forms. This will serve as your cake’s crust. It’s important to press the dough evenly across the bottom of the baking dish to create a solid foundation for your gooey filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, take the softened cream cheese and beat it until it’s smooth. This step is crucial as it will help in achieving a velvety texture in your filling. Once the cream cheese is nice and creamy, incorporate the remaining two eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until your mixture is creamy and well-blended. Then, gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips; these ingredients add not just flavor, but also a delightful texture to the cake.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Take your delicious cream cheese mixture and pour it over the chocolate crust you’ve just created. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top, making sure every part of the crust is covered. This gooey layer is what makes this cake truly special!
Step 5: Bake
Place your cake in the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes. You want to keep an eye on it; the top should be set while still slightly gooey in the center. This gooey signature of the cake is what you are aiming for, so avoid the temptation to overbake!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Cutting into squares while it’s still warm ensures that the gooey filling stays intact. Serve your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding shredded coconut or even bacon bits for an unexpected twist.
- Vegetables: Easily integrate zucchini for added moisture without compromising the flavor.
- Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon or instant coffee to enhance the chocolate profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother final mixture.
- Adjust the baking time as needed, as every oven can have slight variations in temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a rich presentation.
Tips
- To store leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over individual servings before serving.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
- Protein: About 5g of protein
- Sodium: Approximately 300mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of yogurt as an egg substitute in this recipe.
Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to two months.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is truly a dessert to remember. With its delightful combination of chocolate and pecans, along with that signature gooey texture, it is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is bound to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your experience with us in the comments section, and let us know how your baking adventure turned out. Sweeten your day with this scrumptious delight and bring happiness to your table!
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Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake offers a delightful fusion of chocolate and pecan flavors, wrapped in a gooey, buttery texture that is simply irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- ½ cup melted butter (unsalted preferred, but salted works too)
- 3 large eggs (divided)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk, based on preference)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until a dough-like consistency forms. Press the mixture evenly in the baking dish to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract; mix until creamy. Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes until the top is set but slightly gooey in the center.
- Let cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results. You can store leftovers for up to three days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 5 g