Classic Gooey Butter Cake

Name: Classic Gooey Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 225 grams cream cheese (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 4 cups powdered sugar

60 min 12 slices Easy

All Recipes

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavours of this Classic Gooey Butter Cake, perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Gooey Butter Cake is a beloved dessert that originates from St. Louis, Missouri. Featuring a dense yet tender crust crowned by a lush, buttery topping, this cake is a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Our version of the Classic Gooey Butter Cake remains true to its roots, with a simple preparation that yields a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and rewarding. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting dessert at home, this cake is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. The contrast of textures and rich flavours make it an irresistible addition to any dessert spread.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Prepare the crust

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, and melted butter. Mix until smooth and press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.

Pro tip: Use your hands to press the crust evenly.

Prepare the filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla, and melted butter, mixing well.

Pro tip: Ensure there are no lumps in the cream cheese.

Add powdered sugar

Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated and smooth.

Pour the filling

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.

Pro tip: Use an offset spatula for even spreading.

Bake the cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly set. The center should jiggle slightly.

Pro tip: Do not overbake; the cake should be gooey.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Pro tip: For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Use an offset spatula to evenly spread the batter in the pan.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing for neat pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gooey Butter Cake?

Gooey Butter Cake is a dessert originating from St. Louis, featuring a dense cake base topped with a rich and buttery filling.

How long does Gooey Butter Cake last?

Gooey Butter Cake lasts up to two days at room temperature and up to three days refrigerated.

Can I freeze Gooey Butter Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Gooey Butter Cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.

How many calories are in a slice of Gooey Butter Cake?

A single slice of Gooey Butter Cake contains approximately 350 calories.

What makes Gooey Butter Cake gooey?

The gooey texture comes from the rich cream cheese and butter topping that remains slightly underbaked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Classic Gooey Butter Cake on its own, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s an ideal dessert for parties or family gatherings, as it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. If you have leftovers, store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Enjoy it cold or warmed slightly in the microwave for a gooey delight any time!

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

Protein

18g

Fat

Indulge in these rich, no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

Easy75 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Baking · Pizza Pans

Norjac 12 Inch Pizza Pan with Holes, 2 Pack, Round Aluminum Pans for Oven, Rust-Free, Heavy-Duty, Perforated Baking Tray for Crispy Crust, Made in Canada

$28.95

BBQ & Outdoor Cooking · BBQ Accessories

Romanticist 26pcs Grilling Accessories Kit for Men Women, Stainless Steel Heavy Duty BBQ Tools with Glove and Corkscrew, Grill Utensils Set in Portable Canvas Bag for Outdoor,Camping,Backyard,Brown

$42.48

Pit Boss Grills

Competition Series Titan

$1899.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.