Get ready to fall head-over-heels for this ultra-rich, ultra-Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this cake brings warm, melty comfort in every bite. With a chewy base and a creamy, fudge-like topping, it’s a must-have for any chocolate craving.
It’s the kind of dessert that makes memories. You know the ones—those family get-togethers where someone always shows up with that cake, and everyone rushes to grab a slice before it’s gone. The gooey center practically melts into the plate, the chocolate aroma fills the room, and suddenly, you’re back to simpler times when joy came from something warm, sweet, and homemade. This recipe brings all of that—no fancy ingredients, no stress, just full-on feel-good flavor.
🕰 The Sweet Backstory
This rich, decadent cake hails from Southern kitchens where comfort food reigns supreme. Made famous for its gooey, lava-like center and brownie-meets-cake texture, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s stood the test of time.
💛 Why You’ll Fall Hard for This Cake
- Irresistibly Gooey Center: It’s what chocolate dreams are made of.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: No fancy stuff—just real, rich goodness.
- Loved by All Ages: Kids, grandparents, and chocolate lovers unite!
- No Mixer Needed: Just one bowl and a spoon.
📝 Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake Recipe
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Calories: ~410 per slice
Ingredients:
For the base layer:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the gooey topping:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, and egg until well combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla; beat again.
- Stir in melted butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar until smooth and gooey.
- Pour the gooey layer over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes. The center should still jiggle slightly—don’t overbake!
- Let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temp.
🍽 Tasty Twists to Make It Yours
- Double Chocolate Madness: Toss in chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: A little sea salt and caramel on top takes it next level.
- Holiday Flair: Swirl in crushed peppermint or top with mini marshmallows.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, egg, and melted butter until thick. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla, and mix until blended. Slowly add powdered sugar, then pour in melted butter. Beat until fully combined.
- Pour the gooey mixture over the cake layer and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes. The center should still jiggle slightly—don’t overbake!
- Let cool at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or room temperature.
Notes
❓You Asked, We Answered!
Yes! Try devil’s food, German chocolate, or even red velvet for a fun twist.
Absolutely. It keeps well for 3–4 days covered at room temperature.
You should set the edge, but the center should still jiggle slightly. That’s the magic.
Yes. Slice, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
🌟 One Bite and You’ll Be Hooked
Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a chocolate lover’s fantasy come true. Whether you’re baking it for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s easy, rich, and unforgettable. Once you try it, you’ll never look at boxed cake mix the same way again. ❤️