If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Originating from St. Louis, this rich and indulgent cake perfectly balances a buttery, cakey base with a luscious, gooey cream cheese filling, making every bite irresistibly tender and sweet. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is delightfully simple and incredibly rewarding—guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a complex, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Each component plays a crucial role, from the buttery crust to the creamy, sweet topping.
- Yellow cake mix: Acts as the base, providing structure and a soft foundation.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, enhancing the cake’s silky texture.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s lightness.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, bringing that signature tangy creaminess.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor into the filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the filling, creating that characteristic gooey finish.
How to Make Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden crust you’re after in this Gooey Butter Cake Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Base
In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until you achieve a soft dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the buttery, slightly crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until silky smooth. Add the two eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Next, pour in the melted butter and beat until your mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar until everything is fully incorporated and luscious.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust, smoothing it out to ensure every bite is gooey and satisfying. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Watch closely—the edges should turn golden while the center remains just set and gently jiggly. This gooey center is what makes the Gooey Butter Cake Recipe uniquely dreamy.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Whether you prefer it at room temperature or chilled from the fridge, this cake is delicious and only gets better as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
How to Serve Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is a classic finishing touch that adds a delicate sweetness and a charming look. For extra flair, consider fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. These little touches brighten up the cake and complement its rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with something simple and fresh, like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea—the warmth contrasts perfectly with the cake’s creamy texture and sweet notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Tired of the traditional serving? Try cutting the Gooey Butter Cake Recipe into bite-sized bars for a party platter. Alternatively, layer it into a parfait with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a stunning dessert. It’s versatile and wonderful for impressing guests in any setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Gooey Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator if your kitchen is warm. The cake maintains its gooey texture, and chilling can enhance its flavors.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cake longer, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will last up to two months in the freezer without losing its rich, buttery qualities. Just thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For a delightful treat, warm your slice gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until just warm. This brings back that signature gooey center and soft texture, making it taste freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix for another flavor?
While yellow cake mix is traditional for its buttery flavor, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes for a delightful twist. However, sticking with yellow will give you the classic Gooey Butter Cake Recipe experience.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
For the best gooey texture and richness, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Low-fat versions may affect the creaminess and consistency, making the filling less indulgent.
How do I know when the cake is done without overbaking?
Keep an eye on the edges; they should be golden brown while the center should still be slightly jiggly. Overbaking will dry out the gooey middle, so it’s okay if it moves a bit when you gently shake the pan.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
You can attempt a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients, like powdered sugar and cream cheese, don’t contain gluten additives.
Is this cake good served chilled or warm?
Both ways are delicious! Chilled slices firm up the gooey filling for a refreshing treat, while serving it warm emphasizes the gooey texture and full flavor. Try both to see which you prefer!
Final Thoughts
This Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a joyful celebration of rich textures and nostalgic flavors that’s truly easy to master. Once you make it, I promise it will become your secret dessert weapon for family dinners, potlucks, or any moment when you want to feel a little extra cozy. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to experience gooey, buttery bliss in every bite!
