Gooey Butter Cake is a heavenly dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and creaminess in every bite. With its soft, buttery crust and rich, gooey topping, it’s no wonder this cake has become a beloved American classic. The texture is unlike any other — slightly crisp on the edges, yet meltingly soft in the center. It’s a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, ideal for any celebration or casual gathering.
Gooey Butter Cake:
This cake is a treat that turns any ordinary day into something special. Its golden color and velvety layer make it visually appealing and completely satisfying. Whether served warm or chilled, Gooey Butter Cake offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that dessert lovers can’t resist.
History of Butter Cake:
Gooey Butter Cake originated in St. Louis, Missouri, during the 1930s. The story goes that a German-American baker accidentally mixed the wrong proportions of butter, sugar, and flour while making a traditional cake. Instead of discarding it, he baked the mixture anyway — and the result was a deliciously rich, sticky cake that quickly gained popularity. Over the decades, Gooey Butter Cake has become a St. Louis staple, often served in local bakeries and family gatherings, loved for its irresistible sweetness and creamy texture.
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Gooey Butter Cake – A Sweet, Creamy, and Irresistible Classic
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until creamy.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the center remains soft.
- Cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Do not overbake — the center should remain gooey and soft.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother texture.
- Allow the cake to cool before slicing for clean cuts.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
- You can freeze individual slices for up to two months.
Tips for Butter Cake:
- Use a boxed cake mix: It ensures the right texture and saves time.
- Add extra vanilla: Enhances the sweetness and aroma.
- Avoid overmixing: Keeps the filling light and creamy.
- Try variations: Add chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts for a twist.
- Serve with toppings: Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
FAQs for Gooey Butter:
Q: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can use white, lemon, or even chocolate cake mix for variety.
Q: How do I know when it’s done baking?
The edges should be golden brown while the center stays slightly jiggly.
Q: Can Gooey Butter Cake be made ahead?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Store it covered in the fridge.
Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Q: Is this cake supposed to be gooey in the middle?
Absolutely! The soft, creamy center is what makes this dessert special.
Conclusion:
Gooey Butter Cake is a dessert that delivers pure comfort and joy in every bite. With its buttery crust and luscious, sweet filling, it’s no surprise this cake has stood the test of time. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, this St. Louis original is a simple yet unforgettable treat that everyone will love. Once you try it, it’ll become a cherished part of your dessert collection.