Introduction and Origin
Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a decadent dessert that elevates the classic St. Louis butter cake with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. First popularized in Midwestern America, the “ooey gooey” butter cake has become a beloved indulgence, and this version takes it to irresistible new heights.
Cultural Significance
The original butter cake was a happy baking accident in St. Louis in the 1930s, and it quickly became a staple at family gatherings and local bakeries. The modern chocolate and peanut butter twist taps into America’s love for bold flavor combinations, celebrating comfort food culture with layers of richness and nostalgia.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Cake Base:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Optional Additions
- A handful of chocolate chips mixed into the filling for extra texture
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness
- Swap creamy peanut butter for chunky if you like a little crunch
- Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce before serving for an elegant finish
Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese fully to ensure a silky filling.
- Don’t overbake; the center should stay a little wobbly for true “ooey gooey” texture.
- Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend the filling until completely smooth.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to get perfect squares.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs. Stir until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add the 2 eggs and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture and beat until incorporated.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling over the cake base and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Description
Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is rich, dense, and decadently sweet. The fudgy chocolate base contrasts beautifully with the fluffy, creamy peanut butter filling, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 30g
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 320mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands used.)
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is pure bliss in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, this cake promises to steal the show and satisfy every sweet craving.
Recommendation
Serve small squares with a tall glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a rich espresso. It also makes an excellent potluck dessert because it travels well and stays moist for days.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While undeniably rich, you can lighten the recipe by using reduced-fat cream cheese, a lighter peanut butter, or a sugar substitute in the filling. Even small tweaks can make a difference while preserving that luscious, gooey magic. Indulgence is part of a balanced life — and savoring a homemade slice of this chocolate peanut butter goodness is a beautiful way to celebrate it.