Name: Decadent Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 box Chocolate Cake Mix (Use gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly option.); 1/2 cup Melted Butter (Unsalted is preferred.); 1 large Egg; 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened; use dairy-free for a dairy-free option.); 2 large Eggs; 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Essential for gooey texture.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Substitute with chopped chocolate or dried fruits for nut-free.); 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips (Choose semi-sweet or milk chocolate.)

As the delightful aroma of baking begins to waft through the air, I can’t help but feel a bolt of excitement. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that never fails to capture hearts: Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake. This dessert marries the rich flavors of chocolate and crunchy pecans with a luscious, creamy filling that’s pure bliss. What I love most about this indulgent treat is how effortlessly it comes together, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser for gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Plus, it’s versatile with nut-free and gluten-free substitutions that ensure everyone can enjoy a slice! Are you ready to dive into a dessert that’s as easy to whip up as it is satisfying to eat? Let’s get started!

Why is This Cake a Must-Try?

Decadent flavor defines this dessert, delivering a rich chocolate experience that can’t be beat. Gooey goodness allows each bite to melt in your mouth, striking the perfect balance between dense and creamy. Quick to prepare, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time indulging with friends and family. Plus, versatile substitutions mean you can cater to nut-free and gluten-free diets with ease. It’s crowd-pleasing and perfect for any occasion, leaving everyone asking for seconds or even thirds! So why not serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream?

Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Ingredients

For the Crust
• Chocolate Cake Mix – The foundation of this dessert, providing both structure and flavor; consider using gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly option.
• Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the crust; unsalted is preferred, but salted works just fine.
• Egg (1 large) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture to the crust.

For the Filling
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Provides a creamy texture and richness to the filling; use dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Eggs (2 large) – Both enhance moisture and bind the ingredients in the filling.
• Powdered Sugar (4 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the filling, essential for that gooey texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile of this chocolate pecan ooey gooey butter cake.
• Chopped Pecans (1 cup) – Introduces a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; substitute with chopped chocolate or dried fruits for a nut-free version.
• Chocolate Chips (½ cup) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; you can choose semi-sweet or milk chocolate based on your preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake once baked.

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a soft dough. Spread this dough evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down with your fingers or a spatula to create a nice, even layer for the crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the two remaining large eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the filling is fluffy and well combined. Gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture for that delectable filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Carefully pour the cream cheese filling over the crust you’ve just prepared. Use a spatula to spread the filling out evenly, covering the crust entirely. The gooey filling will rise and meld wonderfully with the crust as it bakes, ensuring each slice of your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is scrumptious.

Step 5: Bake
Place the assembled cake in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; you want the top to be set while the center remains soft and slightly gooey—check for doneness by seeing if it jiggles gently in the middle when lightly shaken.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan. After about 15 minutes, cut it into squares. You can serve it warm for that gooey texture or at room temperature, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it plain for a delightful treat.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap for up to 5 days to maintain its gooey texture and rich flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cut it into squares for easy thawing later.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let the Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating: If desired, warm individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore the gooeyness, making it a comforting treat!

Make Ahead Options

Get ready for a deliciously stress-free dessert with your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance; just mix the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and egg, then store it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. The filling can be made a day ahead as well—simply beat the cream cheese, eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth, fold in the pecans and chocolate chips, and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, combine them by pouring the filling over the chilled crust and bake as directed. This makes your dessert just as delightful with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better blending, resulting in a smoother filling for your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
Mixing Method: Use a stand mixer to beat the cream cheese mixture. This helps avoid lumps and creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall dessert experience.
Watch the Baking Time: Be cautious not to overbake; check for a slightly jiggly center to achieve the desired gooey texture. Overbaking may lead to a dry cake.
Parchment Liners: Consider lining the baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal and cleanup, ensuring all gooey goodness stays intact when serving.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with cake mix flavors like red velvet or vanilla to give a unique twist to your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.

What to Serve with Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Imagine delighting your friends and family with heartwarming flavors that elevate your indulgent dessert to new heights.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness melts perfectly against the gooey chocolate layers, creating blissful contrasts with each bite.
Fresh Berries: A handful of tangy raspberries or strawberries adds brightness and a burst of freshness, cutting through the richness of the cake.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream provides a delightful creaminess that balances out the chocolate’s intensity beautifully.
Coffee: A steaming cup of rich coffee complements the dessert’s flavors wonderfully, enhancing the chocolate while providing cozy warmth.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice amps up the decadent flavors, wrapping you in pure chocolate delight!
Nutty Caramel Sauce: A sweet and crunchy caramel sauce adds extra texture and irresistible sweetness that perfectly harmonizes with the pecans.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai create a comforting pairing, enhancing the cake’s buttery richness with every sip.
Sea Salt Sprinkles: Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving elevates the flavor profile, giving an enticing sweet-savory contrast.

Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Variations

Customize your Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for perfect tasty twists on this heavenly dessert!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free option for a worry-free indulgence.
Nut-Free: Replace chopped pecans with chocolate chunks, seeds, or dried fruits for a delightful, nut-free version.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly treat.
White Chocolate Delight: Swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate chips to create a sweet and creamy version.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce through the filling for a luxurious touch, adding that sweet, gooey goodness.
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor that takes your cake to another level.
Double Chocolate: Enhance the chocolatey flavor by adding an extra half cup of chocolate chips to the filling.
Coffee Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the filling for a delightful mocha twist that will wake up your taste buds.

If you love sweet treats, don’t forget to check out my recipes for Ooey Gooey Cheesy Chicken and Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies for more deliciousness! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chocolate cake mix?
Selecting the perfect chocolate cake mix is essential for this dessert. Look for a mix with rich cocoa content for a deeper chocolate flavor. If you’re catering to dietary needs, a gluten-free mix is widely available and works beautifully in this recipe!

How should I store leftovers of the cake?
To keep leftover Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay delicious in the fridge for up to 5 days, maintaining its gooey texture that everyone loves!

Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the cake into squares for easy serving later. Place the pieces in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

What should I do if my cake overbakes?
If you find that your cake is overbaked, take heart! While it may lose some of its signature gooeyness, you can rescue it by drizzling a little melted chocolate or cream over the top to add moisture. In the future, keep an eye on the baking time, aiming for a slightly jiggly center.

Are there any nut-free substitutes I can use?
Very much so! To create a nut-free Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, simply omit the chopped pecans and replace them with chopped chocolate or dried fruits. This maintains texture and keeps the indulgent taste intact, allowing everyone to enjoy this treat worry-free.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy the gooey and decadent flavors without the dairy, making it accessible for those with allergies.