Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake

This Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake comes out of the oven with a crackly top and the silkiest center imaginable The combo of a chocolate base and that oozy creamy layer is just one of those treat-yourself moments every chocolate lover deserves You can throw it together with pantry staples so it is a perfect crowd-pleaser for birthdays or anytime you want something rich and special

My friends still talk about the first time I brought this to a potluck I have to make extra or there is never enough for everyone

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chocolate cake mix: gives you a fudgy base with less effort Make sure to choose a brand you trust for deep chocolate flavor
• Butter: melted for richness Salted or unsalted both work but quality butter brings out more depth
• Eggs: add structure to both layers Fresh eggs make for a lighter texture
• Cream cheese: softened so it blends smoothly The fuller fat versions bring more silkiness
• Powdered sugar: sweetens and sets the gooey layer Sift it if your air is humid for no lumps
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: boosts the taste with pure chocolate intensity Look for Dutch process for deeper color
• Vanilla extract: ties all the flavors together Real vanilla adds the best aroma and finish

How to Make It

Prepare the Base:

Mix the chocolate cake mix melted butter and one egg in a large bowl Combine them by hand or with a mixer on low until the dough just comes together It should look thick but spreadable

Prep the Pan:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray Line with parchment for easy removal if you like

Form the Crust:

Evenly press the cake mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan Use your fingertips or the back of a spoon to smooth it out with no gaps or lumps

Make the Filling:

In a separate large bowl beat softened cream cheese alone first until there are no lumps This can take about two minutes on medium speed

Add Eggs Cocoa and Vanilla:

Beat in two eggs cocoa powder and vanilla extract Continue mixing slowly until the mixture is uniform and creamy

Sweeten It Up:

Pour in the powdered sugar one cup at a time Mix gently between additions until fully incorporated The filling should look thick glossy and pale chocolate in color

Assemble the Cake:

Carefully pour the cream cheese filling over the crust layer Use a spatula to spread it all the way to the edges so the gooey layer is even

Bake:

Bake in your preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees fahrenheit for forty to forty five minutes Check the edges for firmness but the very center should jiggle slightly if you gently move the pan

Cool and Finish:

Once baked let the cake cool in the pan until it is room temperature before slicing This helps the gooey layer set for perfect squares Dust with extra powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate if you want extra wow

My favorite part is always scooping the first gooey piece from the corner My kids love adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream so it melts into the cracks If you try it once it just might become your birthday cake tradition too

Flavor Boosters

For extra chocolate flavor add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling Try a dusting of cocoa powder on top before baking or a drizzle of melted chocolate after it comes out of the oven

Serving Suggestions

Warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream make a classic dessert For a brunch bar cut into tiny squares and sprinkle with cocoa Add fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for special occasions Stack two squares with whipped cream for a decadent layered treat

Creative Twists

Substitute any cake mix you love such as red velvet or yellow for a twist Use coconut oil instead of butter for a slight tropical note For winter add cinnamon or espresso powder to the filling in summer top with berries or citrus zest in autumn use pumpkin spice cake mix and a pinch of nutmeg

This rich cake is the one my family asks for year after year It is simple enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for any party

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I ensure the cake stays gooey in the center?

Bake just until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking for the signature gooey texture.

→ Can I use different cake mixes for the base?

Absolutely! Try red velvet or yellow cake mix for a unique twist on the classic chocolate version.

→ Is it possible to make this treat ahead of time?

Yes, let it cool completely and store covered at room temperature or in the fridge. Warm briefly before serving for best texture.

→ What toppings pair well with this cake?

Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, cut into squares, wrap well, and freeze. Defrost at room temperature, then reheat slightly for gooeyness.