Gooey Butter Cake offers a warm, inviting taste of home. This Southern classic envelops you in a delightful combination of creamy and buttery goodness, with a texture that is both soft and slightly chewy. Picture a slice fresh out of the oven, its golden-brown edges giving way to a rich, gooey center, it’s practically irresistible. I stumbled upon this recipe one chilly afternoon, and it instantly became a staple in my dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: You can whip it up with just a handful of ingredients, making it a perfect last-minute treat.
- Versatility: It’s great for brunch, dessert, or even an afternoon snack with your coffee.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake consistently garners compliments, making it a showstopper at gatherings.
Ingredients Needed For Gooey Butter Cake
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix: This serves as the foundation of your cake. Choose a good-quality mix for the best flavor.
- 1 egg: Help bind the cake mix to create a stable base. Make sure it’s large, as larger eggs will provide the right moisture.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. The warm butter adds richness and flavor.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending. This is crucial for that gooey layer!
- 2 eggs, beaten: These will add structure to the creamy topping, keeping it rich but not too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor; the warmth of vanilla complements the richness of the cake.
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar: This provides the sweetness and contributes to the smooth, gooey texture. Sift it if you want an extra-luxe finish.
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling: A delicate dusting on top finishes off the cake beautifully, adding a touch of sweetness.
How to Make Gooey Butter Cake
- Grease a 9×13 pan and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter until smooth; press this mixture evenly into the greased pan.
- In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese, 2 beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the first layer in the pan.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are a beautiful golden brown; note that the middle may sink slightly.
- Once out of the oven, top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and enjoy!
How to Serve Gooey Butter Cake
Serve slices warm or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the gooeyness perfectly. You could also pair it with a strong cup of coffee or a warm glass of milk for that cozy experience.
How to Store Gooey Butter Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, it’s best to refrigerate it for up to a week. Just reheat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds before serving for that freshly-baked feel.
Tips to Make Gooey Butter Cake
- Check the cream cheese: Ensure it’s softened properly to blend easily; you can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds if you forget to take it out ahead of time.
- Don’t overbake: The center should be gooey and slightly soft when you take it out, so it’s best to err on the side of under-baking.
- Switch up the cake mix: Experiment with different flavored cake mixes, like lemon or chocolate, for a fun twist!
Variations and Substitutions
- Add-ins: Consider folding in chocolate chips or nuts for an added crunch.
- Flavor changes: Try using a spice cake mix for a seasonal kick or adding citrus zest to the cream cheese mixture for some brightness.
- Dairy-free option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut oil in place of butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. It actually tastes great after resting, as the flavors meld together.
What should I do if the middle sinks too much?
This can happen, but don’t worry! It’s part of the charm of Gooey Butter Cake. Just sprinkle more powdered sugar on top for a lovely finish.
Can I freeze Gooey Butter Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They freeze well for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
What is the difference between Gooey Butter Cake and regular butter cake?
The primary difference is in the filling. Gooey Butter Cake has a cream cheese layer on top that stays soft and gooey, while traditional butter cakes are denser and more cake-like throughout.
How do I enhance the flavor of Gooey Butter Cake?
You can add extracts like almond or coconut, or even a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. Let your creativity shine!
Gooey Butter Cake
Ingredients
For the cake base
- 1 box 15.25-ounce box yellow cake mix Choose a good quality mix for the best flavor.
- 1 large egg Use a large egg for the right moisture.
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter The warm butter adds richness and flavor.
For the cream cheese layer
- 1 package 8-ounce cream cheese Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending.
- 2 large eggs, beaten These add structure to the creamy topping.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar Sift it for an extra-luxe finish.
For the finishing touch
- to taste none powdered sugar for sprinkling A delicate dusting on top finishes off the cake beautifully.
Instructions
Preparation
- Grease a 9×13 pan and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter until smooth; press this mixture evenly into the greased pan.
Making the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese, 2 beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the first layer in the pan.
Baking
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are a beautiful golden brown; note that the middle may sink slightly.
- Once out of the oven, top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and enjoy!
