Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that combines a soft, fudgy chocolate base with a gooey, buttery cream cheese topping and a crunchy layer of toasted pecans. Every bite melts in your mouth — it’s a dreamy combination of textures and flavors that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you’re craving an indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A classic ooey gooey butter cake with a rich chocolate twist
• Crunchy toasted pecans add irresistible texture
• Ultra-moist and fudgy with a creamy, sweet topping
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for serving a crowd
• Easy to make in one pan
• Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead
• Crowd-pleasing dessert for all occasions
• Can be served warm or chilled
• Great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chocolate cake base:

• Chocolate cake mix (devil’s food or chocolate fudge)
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Eggs

For the gooey topping:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Chopped pecans (toasted or raw, as preferred)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the cake base: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until fully combined and press into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
3. Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder, then slowly mix in powdered sugar until a thick, smooth mixture forms.
4. Fold in chopped pecans, then pour the mixture over the cake layer and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
6. Cool completely in the pan before slicing. The center will firm up as it cools.
7. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12–16 squares
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour

Variations

• Add chocolate chips to the cake base or topping for extra gooeyness
• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds
• Use a brownie mix instead of cake mix for a denser base
• Top with sea salt after baking for a sweet-salty twist
• Mix in caramel bits or swirl caramel sauce into the topping layer

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual squares tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake batter instead of a mix?

Yes, though using a mix makes it quicker. Just ensure the consistency is thick enough to press into the pan.

Do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting enhances their flavor, but it’s optional. You can use raw pecans if you prefer a softer texture.

Can I skip the nuts?

Absolutely. The cake will still be rich and gooey without them.

Why is the center still jiggly after baking?

That’s normal! The center should be set but still a little jiggly — it firms up as it cools.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better after resting. Make it a day ahead and store in the fridge.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes! It’s delicious warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

What kind of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened cocoa powder — either natural or Dutch-processed will work.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and verify your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I get clean slices?

Let the cake cool completely and use a warm, clean knife for each cut.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking pan or make two batches. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is the kind of dessert that wows with every bite. With its fudgy base, gooey topping, and nutty crunch, it’s a true celebration of flavor and texture. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this recipe is perfect for sharing — if you’re willing to! Try it once, and it might just become your signature dessert.

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