These gooey chocolate cake mix brownies are an irresistibly rich treat with a fudgy texture and crackly top. Made easy with pantry staples and full of chocolate bliss.
Decadent and dense, they start with a cake mix base and transform into luscious brownies layered with a creamy cocoa filling and baked to molten perfection.
What You’ll Need for Cake Mix Brownies
Chocolate cake mix – The foundation of this recipe, giving a shortcut start with intense cocoa flavor.
Eggs – Divided between the base and filling for structure and richness.
Unsalted butter – Melted and used in both layers, ensuring moisture and a tender texture.
Cream cheese – Softened to create a tangy, creamy filling that contrasts the chewy base.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese mixture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Boosts the chocolate intensity in the filling.
Vanilla extract – Adds warm depth to the creamy topping.
Powdered sugar (optional) – A pretty, sweet garnish to finish the brownies.
How to Make Cake Mix Brownies in Just a Few Steps
First, mix the cake mix with one egg and butter, then press this dense dough into your pan.
Next, beat the cream cheese until light, then add remaining ingredients for a rich, chocolatey topping.
Spread the filling over the base and bake until the center is still a bit gooey. Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for Perfect Cake Mix Brownies
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and avoid overbaking—center should jiggle slightly when done. Let them cool before slicing for cleaner cuts, or enjoy warm for maximum gooeyness.
Storing and Freezing Cake Mix Brownies
Store sliced brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, layer brownies in a sealed container with parchment between each layer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, but chocolate cake mix delivers the richest flavor. Try devil’s food or German chocolate for variation.
Do these brownies need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese layer. Keep them chilled for food safety and texture.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! They taste even better the next day and hold up well in the fridge or freezer.
What’s the texture like?
They’re soft, gooey, and fudge-like in the center with a slightly crisp edge—similar to cheesecake brownies but even richer.
Gooey Chocolate Cake Mix Brownies
Indulge in the decadence of these rich, gooey brownies crafted effortlessly from a chocolate cake mix. A velvety cream cheese layer infuses each bite with luscious texture, while the rich cocoa and buttery base deliver an irresistible chocolate experience. Perfect served warm or chilled.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Recipe Info
Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert
Servings: 24 bars
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (divided use)
- 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- 3 large eggs, divided
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix with one egg and ½ cup of the melted butter. Stir until a thick dough forms, then press it evenly into the bottom of a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.
Using an electric mixer, whip the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Blend in the remaining two eggs, the remaining ½ cup melted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated.
Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake mix base in the prepared dish, ensuring an even layer.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains gooey.
Allow to cool slightly before serving, or chill for a firmer texture. Garnish with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
To store, cut into squares and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze the brownies for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
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