Stepping into the kitchen, I felt like I was unearthing a hidden treasure—a recipe for Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake that promised both ease and indulgence. Imagine a rich, chocolatey base giving way to a creamy, buttery filling speckled with crunchy pecans; it’s a dessert that comforts as much as it delights. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a late-night sweet tooth, this cake delivers with a quick prep time and can cater to various dietary needs with its nut-free and gluten-free options. What could be better than having a show-stopping dessert that’s also accessible for bakers of any level? Are you ready to take your baking skills up a notch and create something irresistibly delicious?
Why is This Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich blend of chocolate and pecans creates a harmonious taste experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Decadent Texture: Picture a gooey center that’s soft yet firm, offering the ultimate comfort with each bite.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
Versatility: Easily adapt this delightful cake to meet dietary needs—try a gluten-free cake mix or swap pecans for dried fruits for nut-free enjoyment.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a party or a cozy night in, this Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake easily becomes the star of the show, just like our Chocolate Chalet Cake or Caramel Kentucky Butter.
Indulge in this dessert that promises to impress and satisfy!
Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Ingredients
For the Crust
- Chocolate Cake Mix – This forms the delicious base layer providing rich chocolate flavor and structure.
- Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; unsalted butter works best, but salted will do in a pinch.
- Eggs (1 large) – Binds the crust together; no substitutes necessary here.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy, tangy filling that perfectly balances the chocolate. Opt for non-dairy cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture; avoid granulated sugar as it won’t yield the same result.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; try almond extract for a delightful twist.
- Eggs (2 large, divided) – Essential for the filling’s structure; no direct substitutes suggested.
- Chopped Pecans – They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; consider dried fruits for a nut-free alternative.
- Chocolate Chips – Enhance the chocolatey goodness; switch to dark chocolate for an even richer flavor.
This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is truly a treat that’ll make your kitchen feel like a warm, inviting bakery! Get ready for indulgence!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it generously with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your delicious Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake doesn’t stick, allowing for easy removal once it’s baking time is complete.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Use a spatula to mix these ingredients until it forms a cohesive dough. Next, press this dough evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish, creating a solid base for the gooey filling to come!
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the remaining two eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract while continuing to mix until the filling is well incorporated. Finally, gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips to bring that delightful crunch and extra chocolatey goodness to your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Carefully pour the cream cheese filling mixture over the crust layer you created earlier. Using a spatula, spread the filling evenly across the dough, ensuring that the areas are covered, so every bite of your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake
Place your assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the center should be set but still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the dish, indicating that it’s gooey and perfect.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes—this helps in slicing it into squares without losing its gooey nature. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear as everyone enjoys this decadent Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Fridge: Keep your leftover Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps retain its sweetness and gooey texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag. The cake keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For a quick treat, you can reheat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Serving: Enjoy warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes for a delightful addition to this luscious cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cakes are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust and filling separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the crust ingredients and press it into the greased baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the filling, combine the cream cheese, eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the filling over the crust and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy all the gooey, decadent flavor as if it was made fresh, making dessert night a breeze!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cake and check for doneness around 40 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly for that perfect gooey texture.
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Proper Mixing: Beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients. This ensures a creamy filling without lumps.
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Pecan Alternatives: If you’re aiming for a nut-free Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, swap the chopped pecans with dried fruits or additional chocolate chips.
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Storage Made Easy: After cooling completely, store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to five days.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing; this helps maintain its gooey consistency.
What to Serve with Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich, chocolatey goodness of this decadent treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the cake’s richness, adding a refreshing touch that makes every bite incredible.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the decadent flavors while providing a fluffy texture that balances the cake’s gooeyness.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a burst of tartness, creating a deliciously vibrant balance that cuts through the richness of the Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: For the true chocolate lover, a warm drizzle of chocolate ganache enhances the cake’s chocolatey profile and makes it even more indulgent.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully, as the bold flavors complement the sweet, gooey cake, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce with a hint of sea salt brings a delightful contrast to the cake’s flavors, adding a touch of decadence and a bit of crunch.
With these delightful accompaniments, your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake becomes a dessert extravaganza everyone will crave!
Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Variations
Feel free to make this beloved recipe your own with a few delightful twists!
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Nut-Free: Substitute chopped pecans with dried fruits like cranberries or currants for a fruity burst of flavor. This will still provide a pleasing texture.
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Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to cater to those with gluten sensitivities without losing any indulgence. You’ll still enjoy the rich, gooey experience!
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top before serving. Its sweet, sticky addition elevates each decadent bite.
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Rich Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate ones to deepen the flavor profile, making every forkful a richer chocolate experience.
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Almond Twist: Instead of vanilla extract, use almond extract to add a nutty flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
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Layer It Up: Create a layered experience by adding a thin layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cooled cake, bringing even more elegance to your dessert spread.
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Serve Some Spice: For a hint of warmth, add a dash of cinnamon to the filling mix. This enhances the overall flavor and can be a comforting surprise.
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Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating a delightful contrast with the cake’s textures. Explore more delightful desserts like our Peanut Butter Crackers to round out your sweet offerings!
Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, choose a chocolate cake mix that feels fresh and ranges from smooth to fluffy. Look for pecans that are firm, not soft, and avoid any with dark spots or an off smell, as these indicate rancidity.
How do I store leftovers of the cake?
Great question! To keep your leftover Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay tasty for up to 5 days. Just allow the cake to cool completely before sealing it up.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze the Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them inside an airtight freezer bag. This way, it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if the cake is overbaked?
Oh no! If you find that your cake is overbaked, don’t worry entirely. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add moisture and flavor. Next time, check for doneness around the 40-minute mark to maintain that gooey center.
Is this cake friendly for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! To make this Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. For a nut-free version, replace the chopped pecans with dried fruits or extra chocolate chips. I often make adjustments to cater to friends’ dietary needs while ensuring everyone has a delicious treat!
Decadent Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Combine chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and one egg in a bowl and mix until dough forms. Press into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add remaining eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Fold in chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust layer and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set but jiggles slightly when shaken.
- Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
