Ooey Gooey Chocolate Cake

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with our irresistible Ooey Gooey Chocolate Cake. This sinfully delicious dessert combines rich chocolate flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will leave you craving more. Perfect for indulgent gatherings or cozy nights in, this cake is sure to become a favorite among friends and family. So, preheat your oven and prepare to dive into a world of chocolatey bliss!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 (18.25 oz.) box chocolate cake mix
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
• 3 eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon instant espresso granules
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3-4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Gooey Filling:

• 1 (16 oz.) box powdered sugar
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 stick butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, instant espresso granules, unsweetened cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Add Optional Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4. Prepare Gooey Filling: In another mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
5. Layer Batter and Filling: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Next, spoon the gooey filling over the batter, spreading it out to cover the entire surface. Finally, pour the remaining cake batter over the filling layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations

• Extra Chocolatey: For an even richer chocolate flavor, substitute chocolate fudge cake mix for the regular chocolate cake mix.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the gooey filling for added texture and flavor.
• Fruit Infusion: Layer sliced strawberries or raspberries between the cake batter and gooey filling for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare this cake in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual slices in the microwave before serving.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
3. Can I omit the instant espresso granules?
   • While the espresso granules enhance the chocolate flavor, you can omit them if you prefer. However, they add a subtle richness that complements the chocolate well.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Low-Carb Option: Substitute the chocolate cake mix with a low-carb alternative, such as almond flour or coconut flour mixed with cocoa powder and a sugar substitute. Use a powdered erythritol-based sweetener in place of powdered sugar for the gooey filling.

Keto-Friendly Variation: Follow the low-carb option above and use keto-friendly sweeteners such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Increase the amount of unsweetened cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor without adding extra carbs.

In conclusion, our Ooey Gooey Chocolate Cake is a decadent treat that combines the irresistible flavors of chocolate with a gooey, creamy filling. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and heavenly taste, it’s bound to become a go-to dessert for any chocolate lover. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of pure indulgence!