Indulge in the rich, decadent layers of this Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, a delightful dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and pecans with a gooey, buttery filling. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The fudgy brownie base is complemented by a luscious pecan pie filling and topped with a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese. Each bite is a delightful combination of chocolatey richness and nutty goodness that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will impress your family and friends alike.
Introduction
The Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a modern twist on the classic butter cake, known for its rich, gooey texture and delightful flavor profile. Originating from the Southern United States, this dessert has gained popularity for its simplicity and deliciousness. The combination of chocolate and pecans adds a unique flair to the traditional recipe, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this indulgent treat, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
Bottom Layer:
- 1 box (18 oz.) brownie mix
- 1 egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Water (if needed)
Pecan Pie Filling:
- 3 eggs
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup salted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped
Top Layer:
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 1/3 cups powdered sugar
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure that your cake comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: For the bottom layer, in a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, ½ cup of melted butter, and 1 egg. Stir until the mixture is thick and well combined. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of water to achieve a spreadable consistency, but be careful not to make it too runny. Spread this brownie mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Next, prepare the pecan pie filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted salted butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the coarsely chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Pour this pecan filling over the brownie layer, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: For the top layer, beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add the melted butter, 3 eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Spoon this mixture over the pecan filling, spreading it gently to cover.
Step 5: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 55-75 minutes. The cake should be slightly jiggly in the center but firm to the touch when done. If the top starts to brown too much, tent it with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Baking Note:
The key to achieving the perfect gooey texture is to avoid overbaking the cake. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time, and remember that it will continue to set as it cools.
Suggestions for Presentation:
For a stunning presentation, consider dusting the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar before slicing. You can also serve individual pieces with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Garnishing with additional chopped pecans or chocolate shavings can elevate the dessert’s appearance and flavor even further.
Tips:
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results, especially the cream cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Time Estimates:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Servings: 12
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
Conclusion
The Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty flavor of pecans, all enveloped in a gooey, buttery filling. This cake is perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a special treat for yourself. With its easy preparation and impressive results, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Don’t hesitate to make this indulgent cake for your next gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
2. What can I substitute for the pecans?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even omit them entirely for a chocolate-only version.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
4. Can I use homemade brownie mix instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it in place of the box mix.
5. What is the best way to serve this cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but serving it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream enhances the experience. It’s also lovely when garnished with extra pecans or chocolate shavings.
