Butter Pecan Gooey Cake is a warm sweet treat filled with soft layers and rich buttery pecan flavor that draws people in at first bite.
Many describe this butter pecan gooey cake as deeply satisfying because every slice delivers soft texture and nutty sweetness.
People make this butter pecan gooey cake while watching family gatherings or quiet evenings at home because it feels comforting and fun to prepare.
I often feel inspired to make butter pecan gooey cake during calm afternoons when I want something special. Now I will explain to make Butter Pecan Gooey Cake so anyone can enjoy this delightful dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this butter pecan gooey cake because the cake turns out soft, rich, and full of buttery pecan character that feels comforting and inviting.
The gentle crunch from the pecans adds pleasant texture while the gooey layer creates a smooth finish that makes the whole dessert feel special.
The process feels approachable, and the result consistently pleases anyone who tries it. The flavor stays balanced, and the cake holds up beautifully after cooling, making it enjoyable even the next day.
This butter pecan gooey cake brings warmth to gatherings or quiet moments at home and easily becomes a favorite for many.
How To Prepare Butter Pecan Gooey Cake?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Servings (Yield): 10 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 (15.25 oz) box butter pecan cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted (recommended)
For the Gooey Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust:
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a thick dough forms. Stir in the toasted pecans.
2. Press into the pan:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, making sure it’s packed down and level.
3. Make the filling base:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and fluffy. This step helps create the “gooey” texture.
4. Add eggs and flavoring:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until fully blended.
5. Sweeten and add pecans:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low at first to avoid a cloud of sugar. Once smooth and creamy, fold in the chopped pecans.
6. Assemble and bake:
Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes. The center should look slightly soft and gooey, not fully set. Cool completely before slicing.
Note: For the richest flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them. This dessert tastes even better the next day once it has chilled and the flavors have settled.
Nutritional Amount Of Butter Pecan Gooey Cake
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 36g |
| Sodium | 260mg |
Why My Recipe Works
My recipe works because the crust provides a firm, buttery base that supports the rich, creamy filling without becoming soggy. The cream cheese and butter blend smoothly, creating a gooey texture that holds its shape while staying soft.
Eggs and powdered sugar give the filling structure and sweetness, while pecans add flavor and crunch. Baking at the right temperature ensures the center sets just enough while remaining soft.
Each ingredient balances the others, creating a cake that slices easily, keeps well, and delivers consistent results that are delicious every time.
My Favorite Ways To Serve It Up
My favorite ways to serve butter pecan gooey cake include cutting it into squares and arranging them neatly on a dessert plate for sharing with family or friends.
Serving it slightly warm brings out the soft, gooey texture and highlights the nutty pecan flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk, making it a comforting treat any time of day.
Adding fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or a handful of berries on the side can bring a light contrast to the richness of the cake, making it even more enjoyable.
When To Serve
Butter Pecan Gooey Cake can be served after meals as a dessert, making any lunch or dinner feel special. It works well for celebrations such as birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings, where a rich, comforting treat is appreciated.
It can also be enjoyed during afternoon tea or coffee breaks, providing a sweet indulgence that pairs well with hot beverages. Chilled or at room temperature, the cake is easy to slice and serve.
Offering butter pecan gooey cake at casual get-togethers or special occasions creates a warm, inviting experience for friends and family.
Health Benefits
Butter Pecan Gooey Cake offers modest health benefits mainly from its pecans. Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, which can support heart health and help, reduce inflammation.
Eggs provide protein, and cream cheese adds calcium and some essential vitamins. Small portions of this dessert can provide energy and a feeling of fullness due to the fat and protein content.
Enjoying it occasionally can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with fresh fruit or a simple beverage, allowing indulgence while still gaining nutrients from the nuts and dairy ingredients.
My Tips For Making
➤ Choose high-quality ingredients like real butter, fresh eggs, and good cream cheese, because the flavor of this cake depends on the richness of these basics.
➤ Layer carefully by pressing the crust firmly and spreading the filling evenly; uneven layers can cause the cake to bake inconsistently or the filling to sink.
➤ Toast pecans until golden for a deeper nutty flavor, and chop them uniformly so every bite has a balanced crunch.
➤ Don’t overbeat the filling once sugar is added; gentle folding keeps it creamy and prevents air bubbles that can cause cracks.
➤ Monitor the oven closely in the last 5–10 minutes; edges should be lightly golden while the center stays soft and gooey.
➤ Let the cake rest after baking; cooling fully allows the gooey layer to firm slightly, making slices neat while keeping a soft, indulgent texture.
➤ Experiment with toppings like a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel, or extra chopped pecans to enhance appearance and flavor.
Additions For Make More Delicious
◆ Caramel Drizzle – Pour a light caramel sauce over the baked cake for extra sweetness and a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with pecans.
◆ Chocolate Chips – Fold in semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips into the filling for pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.
◆ Cinnamon or Nutmeg – Sprinkle a small amount of cinnamon or nutmeg into the crust or filling to add warm, aromatic notes that enhance the pecan flavor.
◆ Toasted Coconut – Mix in shredded toasted coconut for extra texture and a subtle tropical hint that complements the gooey layers.
◆ Vanilla Glaze – Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the cooled cake to add sweetness, shine, and a touch of elegance to presentation.
Storage Instructions
Store butter pecan gooey cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness.
For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week; bring slices to room temperature before serving to restore a soft, gooey texture.
The cake can also be frozen for up to two months. Wrap butter pecan gooey cake tightly in plastic wraps and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow butter pecan gooey cake to sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before slicing.
FAQs About Butter Pecan Gooey Cake
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
Yes, you can try using mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor, but cream cheese gives the best creamy gooey consistency.
What can I use if I don’t have an electric mixer?
You can mix the cream cheese filling by hand using a whisk or sturdy spoon—just make sure the cream cheese is very soft to make it easier.
How can I make this cake less sweet?
Reduce the confectioners’ sugar by about ¼ cup or add a little lemon zest to the filling to balance the sweetness with a subtle tang.
Can I add fruit to this recipe?
Absolutely! Fold in fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries into the cream cheese layer for a fruity surprise.
What’s the best way to cut this cake without it falling apart?
Use a sharp, clean knife warmed with hot water and wipe it dry between cuts to get neat slices without sticking or crumbling.
Conclusion
Butter pecan gooey cake is an amazing dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any table. I enjoy preparing this recipe for serving, and it always draws happy reactions from family and friends.
Following my method makes creating this rich, nutty, and creamy cake easy and enjoyable. Sharing the finished cake has become one of my favorite moments in the kitchen.
I hope you try making this dessert and feel the joy of a soft, gooey texture, rich flavors, and the pleasure of seeing others enjoy something homemade and delicious.
More Cake Recipes You’ll Love
Southern Butter Pecan Cake With Caramel
Strawberry Rose Cake | Celebration Cake
Chocolate Apple Cake – Home-style & Topping
Chocolate And Ricotta Cake | Italian-Inspired
High Altitude Vanilla Cake | Moist And Tender
Butter Pecan Gooey Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 15.25 oz box butter pecan cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup chopped pecans lightly toasted (recommended)
For the Gooey Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the crust:
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a thick dough forms. Stir in the toasted pecans.
Press into the pan:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, making sure it’s packed down and level.
Make the filling base:
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and fluffy. This step helps create the “gooey” texture.
Add eggs and flavoring:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until fully blended.
Sweeten and add pecans:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low at first to avoid a cloud of sugar. Once smooth and creamy, fold in the chopped pecans.
Assemble and bake:
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes. The center should look slightly soft and gooey, not fully set. Cool completely before slicing.