If you’re a dessert lover who believes in going big or going home, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is about to become your new guilty pleasure. Combining the classic richness of a chocolate cake base with a lusciously sweet and gooey peanut butter cream cheese filling, this dessert is a full-blown flavor bomb that checks every box: sweet, salty, creamy, and utterly indulgent.

Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, game days, or just because—you don’t need an excuse to bake something this good. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a peanut butter enthusiast, or simply craving something intensely satisfying, this is the dessert that delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy – Starts with a boxed cake mix, making the base simple and stress-free.

• Incredibly Decadent – The creamy peanut butter filling is rich and sweet, creating that signature “ooey gooey” texture.

• Perfect for Sharing – Bakes in a 9×13-inch pan and yields up to 16 generous squares.

• Customizable – Dress it up with peanut butter cups, chocolate drizzle, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Crowd-Pleaser – Great for holidays, parties, and family gatherings.

Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to create this buttery, gooey magic:

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 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈

• 4 cups powdered sugar 🍥

Optional Toppings:

• Mini peanut butter cups 🥜🍫

• Chocolate drizzle 🍫

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure your kitchen is stocked with these essentials before you begin:

• 9×13-inch baking pan

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Rubber spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Non-stick spray or butter for greasing

• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan generously to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Cake Base

In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until a thick dough forms. It will be dense—more like cookie dough than cake batter. Press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

3. Prepare the Filling

In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix well. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is thick and creamy, but pourable.

4. Assemble the Cake

Pour the peanut butter filling over the chocolate base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 40–45 minutes. Don’t be tempted to overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven. That’s what gives this dessert its signature gooey texture.

6. Cool and Top

Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, add optional toppings like mini peanut butter cups or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra decadence.

7. Slice and Serve

Cut into squares and serve at room temperature. Each bite is an explosion of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and buttery goodness.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter before serving.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to tweak the recipe? Here are some delicious ideas:

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped peanuts or pecans into the filling for texture.

• Swirl It: Swirl in some raspberry or strawberry jam before baking for a PB&J twist.

• Change the Cake Mix: Try a devil’s food, fudge, or peanut butter cake mix for a flavor change.

• Brownie Base: Use brownie mix instead of cake mix for an even fudgier bottom layer.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can take it to the next level with:

• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream

• A dollop of whipped cream

• A sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness

• A tall glass of cold milk or coffee

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Stick to creamy, processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) for best results. Natural peanut butters can separate and may not create the same smooth texture.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

There’s no real substitute that gives the same gooey texture. Full-fat cream cheese is essential for the filling.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

Yes—and in the best way possible! It’s meant to be a treat, so small squares go a long way.

Can I double the recipe?

You can double it and bake in two separate pans. Avoid using one pan to double unless you’re adjusting the baking time carefully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about the pairing of chocolate and peanut butter—and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Butter Cake brings that combo to its highest form. It’s rich, it’s indulgent, it’s shockingly easy to make—and most importantly, it’s unforgettable.

So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to something sinfully sweet and irresistibly gooey.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more indulgent dessert ideas, tips, and sweet inspiration straight to your inbox. 🍰✨