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Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake

Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 15 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Layer:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix any favorite brand
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup butter melted

For the Gooey Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup butter melted
  • 16 oz powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder

Optional Toppings:

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Chocolate chips or chopped nuts
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Layer

  • In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Mix until a thick dough forms.
  • Tip: It will be dense and sticky—more like cookie dough than cake batter.
  • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 3: Make the Gooey Filling

  • In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
  • Add the melted butter, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. Beat until smooth and creamy.
  • Tip: Use a hand mixer for a silky, lump-free filling.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  • Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer. Spread evenly with a spatula.
  • Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly jiggly.
  • Tip: The middle should look a little underdone—that’s the gooey magic!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  • Let the cake cool completely in the pan. This helps the gooey layer set. Slice into bars or squares and serve warm or chilled.
  • Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or top with vanilla ice cream.

Notes

  • Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: It gives the richest texture and best flavor.
  • Don’t Overbake: Slight jiggle is good! The center will firm as it cools.
  • Change It Up: Try a German chocolate cake mix or red velvet for variety.
  • Garnish It: A dusting of cocoa powder, drizzle of chocolate sauce, or crushed candies can add extra flair.