best gooey butter cake recipe

4.8 from 1781 votes

This classic St. Louis style gooey butter cake has a dense, buttery crust and a creamy, sweet filling that is soft and almost custard like.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 box yellow cake mix

1 large egg

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.

2In a medium bowl, combine the cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

3In a separate large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the 2 eggs and vanilla extract and beat until well combined.

4Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until everything is incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust in the pan and spread it into an even layer.

6Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still slightly jiggly. Do not overbake. The center will set as it cools.

7Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Cut into squares and serve.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan

Mixing bowls

Electric mixer

Spatula

Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 380mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 45g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth filling. You can store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This cake is also delicious served slightly warm.

Watch Video Of How Best Gooey Butter Cake Recipe Works

This gooey butter cake is always a good idea for any occasion because it is so easy to make and everyone loves it. It works perfectly for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a special weekend dessert. I hope your family enjoys it as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gooey Butter Cake

1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes you can. Yellow cake mix is traditional but you can use white, butter, or even lemon cake mix for a different flavor. The texture will be similar.

2. Why is my gooey butter cake too runny in the center?

This is normal. The center should be slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven. It will set as it cools. If it is still very liquid after cooling, you may have underbaked it. Next time bake for a few more minutes.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten free yellow cake mix and make sure your powdered sugar is gluten free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free.

4. How should I store leftover gooey butter cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

5. Can I freeze gooey butter cake?

Yes you can. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

best gooey butter cake recipe

The Best best gooey butter cake recipe