Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Butter cakes have long held a cherished place in the hearts (and stomachs) of dessert lovers everywhere. Their rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb make them the perfect base for a variety of toppings and fillings. Among the many variations of butter cakes, pecan desserts are particularly beloved, offering a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sweetness of butter. One standout treat that beautifully marries these two worlds is the Decadent Gooey Butter Pecan Cake. This mouthwatering creation features a unique gooey filling that contrasts beautifully with a crunchy pecan topping, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Decadent Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, a heavenly dessert that combines a buttery base with a creamy, gooey center and a delightful layer of crunchy pecans. Perfect for any celebration or just a cozy family night, this cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this scrumptious dessert and impress your guests with a slice of comfort and nostalgia.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 box (about 15.25 oz) yellow cake mix

1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

For the Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

2 large eggs

4 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped pecans (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Prepare the Cake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Fold in the finely chopped pecans.

Spread the Cake Mixture: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.

Prepare the Creamy Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter, mixing until the filling is creamy and lump-free.

Assemble the Cake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cake layer in the pan. Using a spatula, spread it into an even layer over the batter.

Add Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the filling layer.

Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown but the center still jiggles slightly. It's important not to overbake for that gooey texture.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 20-30 minutes at room temperature before slicing. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12