Description
A decadent, rich dessert with a chocolate cake base, a gooey cream cheese and pecan filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1 egg. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the 2 eggs and vanilla extract; beat until combined. Gradually add the 3/4 cup melted butter, then beat in the powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Do not overbake. Cool completely on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For a nut-free version, omit pecans. The cake is best served at room temperature.