Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 13x9-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 1/2 cup of the melted butter, pecans, and 1 egg. Stir until well combined.

Step 3

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust layer.

Step 4

In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 2 eggs. Beat again for 30 seconds.

Step 5

Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Beat until creamy and smooth.

Step 6

Blend the remaining melted butter and vanilla extract into the mixture.

Step 7

Spread the chocolate cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish.

Step 8

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set.

Step 9

Cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into squares or bars and serve with fresh berries, ice cream and/or whipped cream.