If you have a sweet tooth and love dessert recipes that combine rich flavors with a delightfully soft texture, this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe will become your new favorite. Originating from St. Louis, this cake is a perfect harmony between a buttery yellow cake crust and an irresistibly creamy, gooey topping. Every bite melts in your mouth, making it perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy night in where only something indulgent will do.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, classic ingredients is all it takes to make this dreamy cake come to life. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the buttery crust, the smooth cream cheese topping, or the sweet hint of vanilla that ties it all together.
- Yellow cake mix: Provides the sturdy yet tender base that supports the gooey topping perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to both the crust and the creamy layer.
- Large eggs: Help bind the crust and topping while giving structure to the cake.
- Cream cheese, softened: The secret to that luscious, velvety texture in the topping.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth, enhancing every bite.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the topping while helping it set with a smooth finish.
How to Make Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake won’t stick. Then, create the crust by mixing the yellow cake mix with melted butter and one egg until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared dish to form the sturdy foundation for your gooey topping.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Topping
Next, whip the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and lump-free. Beat in the remaining two eggs and vanilla extract until well incorporated. Gradually add powdered sugar and melted butter, mixing until the topping is silky and creamy. This luscious layer is what gives this cake its signature gooey texture.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over your crust, covering every part for that perfect gooey finish. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and set but still has a slight jiggle in the center, which ensures it stays luscious and soft once cooled.
Step 4: Cooling and Cutting
Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This step is crucial because the cake firms up as it cools, making it easier to cut into neat, gooey squares everyone will love.
How to Serve Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While this cake is heavenly on its own, sprinkling a little powdered sugar on top just before serving adds a lovely delicate touch. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate this classic dessert into something extra special, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Side Dishes
Pair your gooey butter cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. A light cup of coffee or tea accompanies the richness beautifully and balances the sweetness with its bitterness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving the cake cut into small, bite-sized squares with tiny decorative picks. Alternatively, layering slices with fresh fruit in a trifle glass allows you to present it as a stunning, layered dessert that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Gooey Butter Cake stays moist and flavorful when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake covered tightly; it will last for about a week while maintaining its incredible texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen, it keeps well for up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator for a quick dessert rescue.
Reheating
To enjoy a warm slice of gooey butter cake, gently reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This brings back the soft, melty texture, making every bite just as comforting as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake mix instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! While the original recipe uses a boxed yellow cake mix for convenience, a homemade yellow cake batter will work well too and can add a lovely personalized touch to your Gooey Butter Cake Recipe.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese softened at room temperature?
Yes, softening the cream cheese is key to achieving that smooth, gooey topping. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps and make the batter harder to mix evenly.
Why does the cake have a slight jiggle when done baking?
This gentle jiggle means the topping is perfectly set but still delightfully gooey inside, which is the signature texture of this cake. Avoid overbaking to keep this lovely texture intact.
Can I substitute butter for margarine or oil?
Butter is preferred since it adds rich flavor and the right consistency, especially melted in the crust and topping. Margarine or oil may alter the taste and texture slightly, so it’s best to stick with real butter for the classic result.
What’s the best way to serve Gooey Butter Cake for a crowd?
Make the cake in a 9×13 pan as the recipe suggests, then cut into small squares for easy serving. Setting up a dessert table with garnish options like fruit, sauces, or whipped cream lets everyone customize their slice.
Final Thoughts
This Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is pure dessert magic that’s unexpectedly simple to make but delivers unforgettable results every time. Whether you bake it for special occasions or just a sweet pick-me-up, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. Give it a try and prepare for lots of happy, satisfied smiles around the table!
Print
Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Gooey Butter Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert originating from St. Louis, featuring a dense, buttery crust topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer. This easy-to-make cake combines a simple yellow cake base with a luscious vanilla and cream cheese topping, baked to perfection with a slightly gooey interior. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting treat, it offers a delightful balance of buttery and sugary flavors with a moist, soft texture.
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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Stir until well combined, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a solid crust layer.
- Prepare the Topping: Beat the softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the two eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Add Sweetness: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and the ¼ cup of melted butter into the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until the topping is fully combined, smooth, and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when the top is set, lightly golden, and the center still has a slight jiggle for gooey texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your rich, gooey butter cake!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth topping consistency.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to maintain the gooey texture.
- Use freshly powdered sugar for best mixing results.
- Letting the cake cool completely is essential for clean slicing and the best texture.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
