Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

Description:

This decadent dessert layers a rich, fudgy chocolate cake base with a thick, creamy peanut butter cream cheese topping. The result is an indulgent, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that lives up to its “ooey gooey” name. Perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike.

Origin:

Originally a Southern American dessert made famous in St. Louis, “Ooey Gooey Butter Cake” started as a baking mistake and turned into a beloved classic. This chocolate and peanut butter twist modernizes the original recipe with bold flavors and a creamy texture that makes it even more irresistible.

Ingredients Quantity:

For the Chocolate Cake Base:

Chocolate cake mix (boxed) – 1 box (approx. 15.25 oz / 432g)
Unsalted butter (melted) – ½ cup (1 stick / 113g)
Eggs – 1 large
Creamy peanut butter – ½ cup (120g)

For the Gooey Topping:

Cream cheese (softened) – 8 oz (226g)
Eggs – 2 large
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Creamy peanut butter – ½ cup (120g)
Unsalted butter (melted) – ½ cup (113g)
Powdered sugar – 2 cups (240g)
Salt – pinch

Optional Ingredients:

Mini chocolate chips or chopped peanut butter cups (for topping or mixing in) – ½ cup
Sea salt flakes (for finishing)
Whipped cream (for serving)
Ice cream (vanilla or peanut butter swirl)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and prep:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line with parchment paper.

2. Make the chocolate base:

In a large bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, egg, and peanut butter.
Mix until thick and fully combined (batter will be dense).
Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. Make the gooey topping:

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add eggs, vanilla, and peanut butter. Mix until creamy.
Add melted butter and powdered sugar; beat until smooth.
Pour over the chocolate base and spread evenly.

4. Bake:

Bake for 40–45 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still look slightly gooey.
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Tips for Success:

Do not overbake! The center should be soft and slightly jiggly—it’s meant to be gooey.
Use room temperature cream cheese for a lump-free topping.
Chill before slicing for cleaner cuts, or serve warm for a molten effect.
Add chopped Reese’s or chocolate chips on top before baking for extra indulgence.

Recommendation:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Great for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you need a rich, comforting dessert. Pairs beautifully with a cold glass of milk or coffee.