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Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 9 reviews

This classic Gooey Butter Cake features a rich, buttery cake base topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese mixture that bakes to a luscious, gooey finish. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Cake Base

  • 1 Box yellow cake mix (15 ¼-Ounce)
  • 1 ½ Sticks salted butter (¾ Cup, melted)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Topping

  • 8 Ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 3 Cups powdered sugar
  • ½ Cup salted butter (melted)
  • 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

Optional

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined.
  3. Press Base: Evenly press the cake batter mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
  4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, melted butter, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1 egg. Mix until the topping mixture is smooth and uniform.
  5. Spread Topping: Pour the cream cheese topping over the pressed cake base in the pan, carefully spreading it to cover the entire surface edge to edge.
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set and golden while the center remains slightly gooey and a bit wobbly to the touch.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired and slice into 12 servings to enjoy.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother topping.
  • Do not overbake - the center should remain slightly gooey to achieve the signature texture.
  • Using salted butter adds a nice balance of sweetness and saltiness in the cake.
  • Powdered sugar topping is optional but adds a nice decorative finish and sweetness.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.