Gooey butter cake. Even the name sounds decadent, doesn’t it? This St. Louis classic is known for its rich, buttery flavor and uniquely gooey texture. It’s the kind of dessert that melts in your mouth and leaves you craving another bite.
If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe to impress your family and friends, this is it. Trust me, this gooey butter cake is surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re a baking novice. So, let’s put on our aprons and embark on a delicious journey to create this Midwestern masterpiece!
What Makes Gooey Butter Cake So Special?
Imagine a dessert that combines the best elements of a buttery cake, a cheesecake, and a custard. That’s gooey butter cake in a nutshell! Its signature texture comes from a simple batter that includes cake mix, cream cheese, and plenty of butter.
The cake is typically baked in a rectangular pan and dusted with powdered sugar, giving it a simple yet elegant look. And while it’s delicious on its own, a dollop of whipped cream or a scattering of fresh berries can elevate it to new heights.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Gooey Butter Cake
This recipe makes a 9×13 inch gooey butter cake, perfect for sharing at potlucks or enjoying as a family treat.
For the Crust:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box (1 pound) powdered sugar
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar
Baking Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Let’s Get Baking!
Making the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Use a fork or your hands to mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
The Gooey Filling
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium speed until the filling is light and fluffy.
Assembling and Baking the Cake
- Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
Cooling and Serving
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will take at least 2 hours, but preferably longer.
- Once cooled, dust the cake generously with powdered sugar.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Gooey Butter Cake
Tips for Gooey Butter Cake Success
- Room Temperature is Key: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before you start. This will ensure a smooth and lump-free filling.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the filling, avoid overmixing. This can lead to a dense and chewy cake.
- Cooling Time is Crucial: Allowing the cake to cool completely is essential for setting the gooey filling.
FAQs about Gooey Butter Cake
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
A: Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors like chocolate or white cake mix.
Q: My cake seems undercooked in the center. What happened?
A: The center of the cake should be slightly jiggly when it comes out of the oven. If it’s still very liquidy, it needs more time to bake. You can cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.
Q: How should I store my gooey butter cake?
A: This cake is best stored in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese filling. It will keep well for 3-4 days.
Serving Gooey Butter Cake
Enjoy a Taste of St. Louis!
Making gooey butter cake is a delightful baking adventure that results in a truly unforgettable dessert. Its simplicity and incredible flavor have made it a beloved treat across generations. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create your own gooey masterpiece!
And if you’re craving more delicious desserts, be sure to check out our recipes for Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, White Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Molten Chocolate Cake. Happy baking!
