Gooey Butter Cake – A Sweet, Creamy, and Irresistible Classic
Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, buttery dessert featuring a soft base and a gooey, cream cheese topping. This melt-in-your-mouth cake is sweet, satisfying, and easy to make. Originating from St. Louis, it’s now a favorite treat across the U.S., perfect for any occasion.
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.