Introduction:
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, a dessert that’s as rich in flavor as it is in texture. This decadent cake combines a chocolatey base with a luscious, gooey topping that’s studded with pecans for added crunch. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or treating yourself to something sweet, this cake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. The contrast between the dense, cakey bottom layer and the ooey-gooey top makes every bite a delightful experience. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this cake is a must-try for anyone who enjoys indulgent desserts.
Overview of the Recipe:
This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a two-layered dessert that starts with a simple cake base made from a box of chocolate cake mix, butter, eggs, and chopped pecans. The top layer, the “ooey-gooey” part, is a mixture of cream cheese, eggs, vanilla, butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and more chopped pecans. Baked to perfection, this cake is characterized by its rich, gooey texture and the nutty crunch from the pecans. With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, this cake is an easy yet impressive dessert option.
History and Origin:
The original Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a classic dessert from St. Louis, Missouri, dating back to the 1930s. It was reportedly created by accident when a baker used the wrong proportions of ingredients while making a coffee cake. Despite the mistake, the result was a deliciously dense and gooey cake that quickly became a local favorite. Over the years, this cake has inspired many variations, including this chocolate pecan version that adds a rich, cocoa flavor and the satisfying crunch of pecans to the traditional recipe. This modern twist on the classic Ooey Gooey Butter Cake takes the indulgence to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 package (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Ooey Gooey Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
2. Prepare the Cake Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 1 egg, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1/2 cup chopped pecans. Stir until the ingredients are well blended and the mixture forms a thick dough. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a firm base for the cake.
3. Make the Ooey Gooey Layer:
- In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the 3 eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Continue to beat the mixture until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the ooey gooey batter over the cake layer in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
4. Bake the Cake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are set and slightly firm, but the center remains a bit jiggly. Be careful not to overbake, as the center should retain its gooey texture.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This will help the gooey layer to set properly. Once cooled, slice the cake into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Serve and enjoy the rich, chocolatey flavor with its unique combination of cakey and gooey textures.
Serving:
This Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is best served at room temperature, allowing the rich flavors and textures to fully develop. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving. This cake is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when you’re in the mood for a truly indulgent dessert.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, gooey cake perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A light, fluffy dollop of whipped cream adds a nice contrast to the dense, rich cake.
- Fresh Berries: Serve the cake with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of fruity freshness that balances the richness.
- Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs well with the deep chocolate flavor of the cake.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake:
- Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the ooey gooey layer for a delicious chocolate and peanut butter combo.
- Caramel Pecan Ooey Gooey Cake:
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the ooey gooey layer before baking for a caramel twist.
- Mint Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake:
- Substitute the vanilla extract with peppermint extract and add a few drops of green food coloring to the ooey gooey layer for a minty chocolate version.
- S’mores Ooey Gooey Cake:
- Add crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows to the ooey gooey layer for a s’mores-inspired cake.
Health Benefits:
While this cake is certainly a treat to be enjoyed in moderation, it does contain some ingredients that offer nutritional benefits. Pecans, for example, are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. Cocoa powder also provides antioxidants, which can contribute to overall health. However, due to the high sugar and butter content, this cake should be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of cake mix?
- Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake mix with other flavors like vanilla or red velvet, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor of the final cake.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
- Can I freeze this cake?
- Yes, this cake freezes well. After baking and cooling, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the cake a day in advance. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. The flavors will develop further, making it even more delicious the next day.
Conclusion:
Chocolate Pecan Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a dessert that delivers on both flavor and texture, offering a rich, chocolatey experience with a delightful gooey center and crunchy pecan topping. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and indulgent taste, it’s no wonder this cake is a favorite among chocolate lovers. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent dessert, and enjoy every delicious bite!