If you have a sweet tooth that craves something rich, indulgent, and irresistibly creamy, then this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining a buttery, cake-like crust with a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth topping, this dessert perfectly balances texture and flavor in every bite. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy treat at home, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Let’s dive right into this classic delight that’s bound to steal the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward the perfect Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: the yellow cake mix creates a sturdy yet tender base, while the cream cheese and powdered sugar bring that signature gooey richness that makes this dessert so unforgettable.
- 1 box yellow cake mix: The foundation of the crust offering a sweet, moist base that balances the richness of the topping.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds buttery richness and helps bind the crust together with a tender texture.
- 1 large egg: Provides structure to the crust and ensures it holds up under the creamy topping.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives the topping its smooth, velvety texture and slight tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Make the topping light yet set perfectly after baking.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth into the topping’s flavor profile.
- 4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 pound): Supplies the sweet, melt-in-your-mouth element to the creamy layer.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds extra richness to the topping, keeping it irresistibly gooey.
How to Make Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish is essential to prevent any sticky moments later, ensuring your cake lifts out in perfect squares once cooled.
Step 2: Create the Buttery Crust
Mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg in a bowl until combined. This mixture forms the deliciously cakey yet rich crust that’s the base of our Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. Press it evenly into the prepared dish for that perfect foundation.
Step 3: Whip Together the Gooey Topping
Beat the softened cream cheese until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. Next, add the two eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and the melted butter, ensuring a uniform, velvety batter that gives the cake its famed gooey texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Spread
Pour your luscious topping over the crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. This layer promises that iconic gooey center with just the right golden touch on top when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your masterpiece for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re aiming for a set top with a subtle golden hue, while the inside stays slightly jiggly, hinting at the ooey-gooey goodness waiting for you.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Patience is key here. Let your gooey butter cake cool completely in the pan. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up slightly for those perfect, neat squares.
How to Serve Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar to highlight the cake’s sweet layers, or add a few fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries for a pop of color and a hint of tartness. Whipped cream also pairs beautifully, adding a light fluffiness that counters the cake’s richness.
Side Dishes
This gooey delight pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, turning it into an elevated dessert experience. Serve alongside a cup of dark roast coffee or a rich hot chocolate to complement its sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in elegant ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties or layer the cake with fresh fruit and whipped cream in a trifle dish for a stunning visual impact. You can even cut the squares into bite-sized pieces and display them on a stylish dessert platter for easy sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Gooey Butter Cake Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for best taste and texture. For longer freshness, refrigeration is a great option, keeping the cake pleasant for up to a week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this treat later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain its gooey texture and buttery flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore that freshly-baked warmth and soften the gooey topping perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?
While yellow cake mix is traditional and gives that iconic flavor and color, you can experiment with white cake mix or even spice cake for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall taste and texture slightly.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softening the cream cheese makes it much easier to blend smoothly into the topping, ensuring a creamy, lump-free layer that bakes evenly.
Why does my Gooey Butter Cake turn out too dense?
This usually happens if the eggs aren’t mixed thoroughly or if the cake is overbaked. Make sure to mix the topping ingredients until smooth and watch the baking time carefully to keep that perfectly gooey center.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version with a similar texture and flavor, and you’re good to go. Just be sure to confirm your powdered sugar and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How long does this cake last once baked?
Properly stored, your Gooey Butter Cake Recipe will stay delicious for up to a week in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within the first few days to catch it at peak gooeyness.
Final Thoughts
This Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a true gem in the dessert world—comforting, rich, and ridiculously simple to make. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual treat, this cake will never disappoint. So grab those ingredients, turn up the oven, and get ready for a buttery, gooey slice of happiness!
Print
Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, decadent dessert with a buttery crust and a creamy, sweet cream cheese topping. This classic St. Louis treat is easy to prepare and bakes into a luscious cake that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 pound)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the cake base.
- Prepare the Topping: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the two eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the ¼ cup melted butter, mixing until the topping is creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the cake mix crust in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be set and lightly golden, while the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the dish before cutting into 12 squares and serving.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- The center may look a little undercooked when done; this is normal and adds to the gooey texture.
- Refrigerate leftovers to maintain freshness and gooey consistency.
- You can dust the top with extra powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
