For all the chocolate lovers out there, this Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake is a dream come true. Imagine a rich, fudgy cake with a decadent cream cheese topping that melts into the cake batter, creating an irresistible combination of textures. It’s gooey, it’s chocolaty, and it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for dessert at any occasion, this cake is quick to prepare yet feels indulgent enough to serve at a special gathering.

With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this cake brings all the chocolatey goodness with a twist. The buttery cake base acts as a perfect foundation for the velvety, creamy filling made with cream cheese, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. When baked, the cake becomes a gooey masterpiece that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a potluck, or just want something indulgent to enjoy at home, this cake will quickly become your go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Chocolatey: The combination of cake mix, cocoa powder, and cream cheese creates a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor.
Easy to Make: Using a cake mix as the base makes preparation a breeze. You don’t need to be an expert baker to create this delicious dessert.
Perfect Texture: The contrast between the firm cake base and the gooey, creamy center is what makes this cake so special.
Family Favorite: This cake is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or parties.
Versatile: You can customize it by adding toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Ingredients

Chocolate cake mix
Butter (melted)
Eggs
Cream cheese (softened)
Vanilla extract
Cocoa powder
Powdered sugar

Variations

Add Chocolate Chips: For even more chocolate flavor, stir in some mini chocolate chips into the cake batter or the cream cheese filling.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter or sprinkle them on top for a crunchy texture that complements the gooey filling.
White Chocolate Version: Swap the cocoa powder with white chocolate chips or a white chocolate cake mix for a different but equally delicious variation.
Peanut Butter Twist: Add peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture for a peanut butter and chocolate combo that’s simply heavenly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Base

In a bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until well incorporated. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming the base of the cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 2 eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Layers

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. This will give the cake its signature ooey gooey texture.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy the rich, gooey goodness!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overbake: The key to that gooey texture is to make sure you don’t overbake the cake. The center should still jiggle slightly when you take it out of the oven.
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For a smooth cream cheese mixture, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, and it’s just as delicious the next day!
Let It Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool before cutting it to ensure the gooey texture stays intact.

How to Serve

This Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake is perfect served on its own, but you can elevate it even further with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. It’s rich enough to be served as is, but the additions make it even more indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cake may firm up slightly in the fridge but will return to its gooey texture when warmed.

Freezing

This cake freezes well. Let it cool completely before wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. If you like it extra gooey, microwave it for a bit longer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, you can use any cake mix flavor you prefer, but chocolate cake mix complements the creamy chocolate filling best.

2. Can I make this cake without eggs?

For an egg-free version, substitute the eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer.

3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake?

Yes, it’s best to refrigerate this cake to maintain its gooey texture and ensure it stays fresh.

4. Can I add more chocolate?

You can add chocolate chips or melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture for an even richer chocolate flavor.

5. How long does it take to bake?

Bake for 40-45 minutes, but check the cake regularly. It should be set in the center but still slightly jiggly.

6. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! You can prepare this cake a day ahead and refrigerate it. The cake only gets better the longer it sits.

7. How can I make it less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture to taste.

8. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may not be as creamy as with full-fat cream cheese.

9. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cake moist and fresh.

10. Can I make this in a different pan?

Yes, you can use a square pan or a round pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake is the ultimate chocolate dessert that’s sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth. With a cake mix base, a luscious cream cheese topping, and a gooey texture that’s absolutely irresistible, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, birthday, or just a regular weeknight dessert, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.