Prepare to experience a dessert that will make your taste buds dance with pure joy! This isn't just another cake - it's a decadent masterpiece that combines the rich, velvety texture of chocolate cake with a creamy cheesecake layer, all topped with a sinfully delicious Nutella frosting. Whether you're looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to the most incredible dessert experience, this recipe promises to be a show-stopper that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup Nutella for frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix by combining the cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1 cup water, and 1/2 cup vegetable oil. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the cheesecake layer by beating the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
- Pour the chocolate cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate cake batter, creating a swirled or layered effect. Use a butter knife to gently create marbling by drawing lines through the two batters.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature.
- Once cooled, warm the Nutella slightly in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make it more spreadable.
- Spread the Nutella evenly over the top of the cooled cake, creating a thick, decadent frosting layer.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld together.
- Cut into 12 equal squares and serve chilled. Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
- Marbling Technique: When creating the swirl between cake and cheesecake layers, use a gentle hand. Too much mixing will blend the batters completely, losing the beautiful marbled effect.
- Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is precisely at 350°F. Temperature variations can affect baking time and texture.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the Nutella frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a perfect, even spread.
- Microwave Nutella Trick: When warming Nutella, use 20-30 second intervals and stir between each to prevent overheating.
- Chilling is Key: The 2-hour refrigeration isn't optional - it helps the layers set and intensifies the flavors.
- Clean Cutting Hack: For perfect squares, use a hot, clean knife and wipe between each cut for smooth, precise slices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 95mg
