This Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert with a buttery base and a sweet, creamy topping loaded with toasted pecans. Made with simple ingredients like yellow cake mix and cream cheese, it’s the perfect combination of crunch and gooeyness. Each bite delivers layers of soft cake, luscious cream filling, and nutty pecan goodness — ideal for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you crave a sweet Southern-style treat.
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
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Combines the ease of cake mix with homemade flavor
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Features a buttery, gooey cream cheese filling
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Loaded with toasted pecans for texture and flavor
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No frosting needed—just slice and serve
Ingredients Breakdown
Cake Layer
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1 box yellow cake mix – Forms a quick and flavorful base with a tender crumb.
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1 egg – Helps bind the crust together.
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds moisture and rich buttery flavor to the base.
Gooey Butter Pecan Topping
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8 oz cream cheese, softened – Provides the signature gooey texture and tangy depth.
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2 large eggs – Add structure and richness to the topping.
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1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with warm, sweet notes.
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Deepens the richness and helps create a silky topping.
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2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the gooey layer.
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1 cup chopped toasted pecans – Adds a nutty crunch and roasted flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Tips and Tricks
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Don’t overbake! The center should be slightly gooey when you remove it from the oven—this is key to its texture.
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Use toasted pecans for extra flavor depth.
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Want a richer finish? Dust with powdered sugar after cooling.
Variations and Customizations
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Add a bourbon twist: Mix 1 tbsp bourbon into the cream cheese layer for a Southern flair.
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Make it chocolatey: Use a chocolate cake mix base and fold chocolate chips into the topping.
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Try walnuts or a pecan-walnut blend if preferred.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
- Storage Instructions
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
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Refrigerate for longer storage (up to 5 days)
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Freezer-friendly: Wrap slices tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Popular Questions
Can I use homemade cake mix?
Yes! Use your favorite yellow cake mix recipe as the base.
Why is my butter cake too firm?
It was likely overbaked. Pull it out while the center still jiggles slightly.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
It’s not recommended—full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness.