Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake Recipe

If you dream of melting chocolate, nutty crunch, and a river of sweet gooeyness in every bite, the Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake is the dessert you need in your life. Imagine digging a spoon into silky chocolate cake, then discovering a luscious, pecan-studded pool of chocolate beneath the surface. This recipe is pure comfort and couldn’t be easier—perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a show-stopping dessert with minimal fuss. Be prepared: the moment you set out a pan of Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake, you’ll instantly become everyone’s favorite person.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of pantry staples, paired with a couple of finishing touches, create a cake so rich and indulgent. Here’s a look at what you’ll need, plus a few little secrets for making every ingredient shine in your Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake.

• Chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz): The backbone of this recipe, ensuring a moist, chocolatey base without any extra hassle.
• Water (1 cup): Essential for bringing the cake mix together; use room temperature water for best results.
• Vegetable oil (½ cup): Gives the cake its soft, tender crumb and keeps it from drying out.
• Large eggs (3): Add richness and structure so every slice holds together, but still feels pillowy.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): The secret to the cake’s signature gooey layer with the perfect hint of caramel sweetness.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): For melty pockets of chocolate that turn every bite into pure decadence.
• Chopped pecans (1 cup): Deliver that toasty crunch and nutty flavor, bringing depth and texture to every forkful.
• Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Helps the gooey topping set and adds undeniable richness—don’t skip it!
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the chocolate and nutty notes with that classic bakery aroma.
• Pinch of salt: Just a little lifts all the flavors and keeps the cake from tasting too sweet.

How to Make Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when your batter is. Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray—this not only prevents sticking, but also helps form the cake’s golden edge. A little care here really pays off later!

Step 2: Mix and Pour the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Give it a good whisk or use an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, scraping the sides once or twice. Pour the batter into your prepared dish and smooth it out gently with a spatula. The cake mix base is so rich and simple, it needs just a little nudge to spread evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Gooey Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk together the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Once that’s smooth, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans. This mixture will look thick, glossy, and loaded with promise!

Step 4: Add the Gooey Topping

Carefully spoon the gooey pecan and chocolate mixture right over the cake batter. Try not to mix it in; just spread it lightly and let gravity do the rest while baking. This is what creates that unbeatable duo of fluffy cake and warm, chocolatey lava underneath.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should look set, but when you give the center a gentle nudge, it should still have a soft wobble—that’s what makes it a Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake! Remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This short wait makes it easier to serve and ensures you get the perfect molten center in every piece.

How to Serve Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake

Garnishes

For a truly irresistible finish, serve your Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can turn each slice into a restaurant-worthy dessert.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich enough to stand on its own, but for a fresh counterpoint, pair it with fresh berries or a light fruit salad. Their brightness and acidity cut through the richness, making each bite feel lighter and more balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake in individual ramekins for dinner parties, or cut it into decadent bars for a potluck treat. Another fun twist: layer warm cake cubes with ice cream and extra pecans for a truly show-stopping chocolate trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have any leftovers, cover your cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. The gooey layer stays delicious and moist, and the flavors even meld together beautifully overnight.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze slices of Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To re-capture that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness, warm leftovers in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds per slice. If reheating a larger portion, pop it in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. This simple trick makes the chocolate chips melt and the center ooze just right.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While pecans give a classic Southern twist, walnuts or almonds also work beautifully. You can even try hazelnuts for a subtle Nutella vibe, but pecans remain the signature classic for a true Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake experience.

How do I know when the cake is finished baking?

The edges will look slightly puffed and set, while the center should appear just a bit wobbly if you jiggle the pan. That’s the sweet spot—don’t overbake, as the gooey center is what makes this cake unforgettable.

Can I make this Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free chocolate cake mix and double-check your other ingredients. The gooey layer works perfectly with gluten-free bases and nobody will even guess the difference.

What’s the best way to cut and serve warm slices?

Use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water between slices for clean, even pieces. Serve with a thin spatula for easy lifting so each warm, gooey portion is served just right.

Can I prepare Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake ahead for parties?

This cake is a party lifesaver! You can bake it a day ahead, store covered at room temperature, and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen overnight, and with a scoop of ice cream, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for that unforgettable, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy yet incredibly decadent, this Gooey Chocolate Pecan Cake delivers every single time. Treat your friends, family, or just yourself to a warm, gooey slice of happiness—trust me, you’ll fall in love at first bite!

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