This Smoky and Savory Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake recipe delivers a rich, deep chocolate flavor with a unique smoky twist. Infused with smoked paprika and espresso powder, this dessert is elevated with savory notes and an irresistible gooey center. Perfect for rustic presentation, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy those decadent chocolate cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor: The smoky paprika and smoked sea salt add depth to the rich chocolate.
- Gooey Texture: The soft center makes every bite indulgent and luxurious.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Rustic presentation adds charm to any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box dark chocolate cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Gooey Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp smoked sea salt
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Cake Base
- In a large bowl, mix together the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, eggs, smoked paprika, salt, espresso powder, and buttermilk.
- Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
3. Prepare the Gooey Topping
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and smoked sea salt, and beat until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake the Cake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- The gooey layer will stay soft and fudgy, adding to the cake’s rich texture.
6. Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
- The cake will firm up slightly, making it easier to slice while still retaining its gooey center.
7. Plating and Garnishing
- For a rustic presentation, serve the cake slices on wooden boards or ceramic plates.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked sea salt, a drizzle of melted chocolate, and a few roasted cocoa nibs.
- Add fresh mint leaves or berries for a pop of color.
Tips for the Best Presentation
- Natural Lighting: Place the cake near a large window to enhance the visual appeal with vibrant lighting.
- Rustic Touch: Present on wooden boards or worn ceramic plates to complement the rustic vibe.
- Color Contrast: Add fresh raspberries, strawberries, or edible flowers for an elegant contrast to the dark chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
- Enjoy with a cup of espresso to complement the chocolate and smoky flavors.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 21g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 310mg
Related Recipes to Try
- Flourless Chocolate Cake: A rich, decadent cake without the flour.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Molten chocolate inside every bite.
- Brownie Cheesecake Bars: A delightful mix of cheesecake and brownies.
Final Thoughts on Smoky and Savory Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake Recipe
This Smoky and Savory Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cake recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavors and unique desserts. The smoky notes from paprika and sea salt balance beautifully with the rich chocolate, while the gooey center adds a luxurious texture. Ideal for any occasion, this cake will be a showstopper at your next gathering.
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