If you are on the hunt for a truly decadent dessert that combines rich creaminess with a perfectly cakey base, this Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Originating from St. Louis, this beloved treat showcases a luscious, buttery layer sitting atop a golden yellow cake crust. It’s a splendid combination of textures and flavors that comes together in one irresistible slice of heaven. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you want to spoil yourself with something sweet and delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this magical Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, you only need a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the moist cake base and that signature, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth topping that defines this dessert.
- Yellow cake mix: Gives the cake its tender crumb and beautiful golden color, serving as the flavorful foundation.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cake layer stays luscious and soft.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and help achieve the perfect balance of structure and gooeyness.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creates the creamy, velvety top layer that makes this cake so delectably ooey and gooey.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling while lending it a silky smooth texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor, giving the cake a warm, inviting aroma and taste.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan to keep the cake from sticking. In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and one of your large eggs. Stir everything together until you get a thick, dough-like mixture. Press this evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be the sturdy yet tender base that holds the delicious gooey topping.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Next, grab a separate bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. Now add the remaining eggs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it becomes a luscious filling mixture. This is the crucial step that gives the cake its famous ooey gooey texture and dreamy flavor.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your cream cheese mixture gently over the cake base, spreading it out evenly with a spatula for consistent results. Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You want the edges to turn a lovely golden brown while ensuring the center remains soft and slightly gooey—this is the hallmark of a perfectly baked Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is important because it lets the center set just enough to hold its shape while keeping that gooey texture intact. After cooling, slice into squares and get ready to enjoy every indulgent bite.
How to Serve Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Though this cake is delightful on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a pretty, delicate finish that enhances its sweetness. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Fresh berries on the side can add a wonderful pop of color and a tart contrast to the buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, which complements the soft, creamy filling. For a cozy dessert experience, serve with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. If you’re offering it at a party, sliced fresh fruit or a simple fruit salad provides a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your Ooey Gooey Butter Cake into bite-sized squares and serving them on a decorative platter for easy sharing. You could also layer pieces between plates with whipped cream and berries for a quick trifle-style dessert. Another fun idea is to transform leftovers into decadent parfaits by layering cake chunks with pudding or mousse in clear glasses—showcasing that ooey gooey goodness in every spoonful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices of Ooey Gooey Butter Cake will keep well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration is best to maintain freshness and prevent the cream cheese layer from spoiling.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this cake for up to three months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving to restore its signature texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy your cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid melting the filling too much. A slightly warm slice brings out the buttery aroma and enhances that delightful ooey gooey texture everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?
Yes, while the classic recipe uses yellow cake mix for its perfect flavor and texture, you can experiment with other cake mixes like white or butter flavor. Just note that this may change the final taste and color slightly.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Using a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensuring your other ingredients are gluten-free will give you a delicious gluten-free version without compromising the ooey gooey goodness.
Why is my Ooey Gooey Butter Cake too gooey or too firm?
Overbaking can cause the center to become too firm or dry, while underbaking may result in an overly gooey, unstable cake. Aim for golden edges and a soft, slightly jiggly center, then let it cool completely to set perfectly.
Can I add other flavors or extracts?
Definitely! Adding a teaspoon of almond extract or even a hint of lemon zest to the filling can elevate the flavor and add your own personal twist to this classic recipe.
How should I cut the cake for serving?
Once cooled, use a sharp knife and slice into 12 even squares for perfect portions. Use a plastic knife or heat your knife under warm water and dry before cutting to make cleaner slices without sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is one of those magical desserts that brings smiles and comfort with every bite. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible to bakers of all levels, while its rich and decadent taste ensures it’s anything but ordinary. Share this recipe with your friends and family—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved classic worth making again and again.
Print
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is a luscious American dessert featuring a rich buttery cake base topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer. With a perfectly gooey center and golden edges, it’s a delightful treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Base Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one large egg until a thick dough forms. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the cake base.
- Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining two eggs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the filling is creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base, spreading it smoothly to the edges for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the center remains slightly soft and gooey to achieve the perfect texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into squares. This helps the cake set and retain its gooey center.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese filling.
- Dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving for a pretty finish.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain the signature ooey gooey center.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
