Every chocolate lover needs a go-to indulgence, and this Gooey Chocolate Cake Recipe is exactly that! I remember the first time I made this—pure magic.

The crispy, delicate top layer gives way to a rich, fudgy center that melts in your mouth. This dessert is so good that you must relish each bite with closed eyes.

If you love chocolate desserts that are easy to make but taste like they came from a bakery, you’re in for a treat!

Gooey Chocolate Cake Recipe – Only 6 Simple Ingredients!

This Gooey Chocolate Cake Recipe is a rich, fudgy dessert with a creamy center and a delicate chocolate flakiness on top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

(You’ll need an 8×8-inch cake pan and parchment paper!)

For The Base Layer:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Gooey Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes:

Swap unsalted butter with salted butter (skip adding extra salt).
Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep The Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper and coat it lightly with cooking spray. This keeps the cake from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make The Base Layer

In a bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter until it forms a thick dough.
Press the dough evenly into the pan using your fingers or a spatula. Don’t worry if it feels sticky—this layer bakes into a soft, cookie-like crust!

Step 3: Whip Up The Filling

In the same bowl (no need to wash it!), beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add 2 eggs, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until creamy and lump-free. Pour this over the base layer.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Bake for 30–35 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center will still jiggle slightly—that’s your gooey magic!
Let the cake cool for 20 minutes before slicing. The top will develop a thin, flaky crust as it cools.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

Too Dry? If your cake turns out dry, chances are it was overbaked. Next time, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.
Not Gooey Enough? Make sure you don’t overmix the filling layer. Overmixing can cause the cake to lose its soft, molten center.
Dietary Adjustments: Swap the butter for coconut oil to make it dairy-free. Use a gluten-free cake mix if needed.

Overbaking? The center firms up as it cools. If the edges burn, cover the pan with foil halfway through baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Dust with extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a fancy touch.

What Can I Do With Ooey Gooey Cake?

Turn leftovers into dessert nachos! Crumble the cake over waffles, layer it with yogurt and berries, or sandwich between cookies for a next-level treat.

How Do You Store Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake?

Store cooled slices in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I Use A Different Cake Mix?

Yes! Devil’s food cake mix or fudge cake mix works great for a deeper flavor.

Can I Use A Homemade Cake Mix Instead Of A Box?

Absolutely! Use 1 ½ cups of your favorite chocolate cake flour blend, 1 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt.

Why Is My Cake Too Runny?

It might be underbaked. Let it sit at room temperature for a while, and it will firm up.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes! Store in the fridge and warm individual slices before serving.

Why Is My Filling Layer Lumpy?

Your cream cheese might’ve been too cold. Let it soften at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing.

Can I Bake This In A 9×13-Inch Pan?

Double the recipe and reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes.

Is This Cake Gluten-Free?

Swap the cake mix for a gluten-free version (like Betty Crocker’s GF mix).

This Best Gooey Chocolate Cake Recipe is pure chocolate bliss! Try it, and let me know how it turns out in the comments!

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Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.