Gooey Butter Cake Recipe: The Ultimate St. Louis Sweet Treat That’s Impossible to Resist
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Craving something ridiculously decadent but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This classic St. Louis gooey butter cake is your answer! With its tender cake base and impossibly rich, gooey top layer, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between effortless baking and show-stopping results. The best part? You probably have most ingredients in your pantry right now, and it’s nearly foolproof to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to something special, this cake delivers that perfect “wow factor” without the stress.
Recipe Details
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 40 mins | 55 mins | 12 | Easy |
What You’ll Need
For the Cake Base:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz) – Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker work great
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Gooey Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box powdered sugar (16 oz/about 4 cups)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Substitution Notes:
- Dairy-free option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese
- Gluten-free: Swap regular cake mix for gluten-free yellow cake mix
- Flavor variations: Try lemon cake mix with lemon extract, or add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the gooey layer for chocolate version
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Make the cake base: In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Mix until just combined – the mixture will be thick and slightly crumbly, which is exactly what you want.
- Press the base mixture evenly into your prepared baking pan using your hands or the back of a spoon. Make sure it reaches all corners and creates an even layer. Pro tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking as you press it down!
- Prepare the gooey layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add the melted butter to the cream cheese and mix until well combined. The mixture should be smooth without any lumps.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, mixing on low speed initially to prevent a sugar cloud, then increase to medium speed. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined – about 2-3 minutes total. Important: Don’t overmix once the sugar is added, as this can make the top layer tough instead of gooey.
- Pour the gooey mixture over the pressed cake base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The layer should completely cover the base.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden, but the center still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The top should not be completely firm.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting – this is crucial for clean slices! The cake will continue to set as it cools.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for that classic bakery look.
How to Serve
This gooey butter cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to make it even more special:
Perfect pairings: Serve alongside fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream, or pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. A hot cup of coffee or cold glass of milk makes the perfect accompaniment.
Special occasion ideas: Cut into elegant squares and arrange on a platter for potlucks, or serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for dinner parties.
Portion suggestions: Cut into 12 generous squares, or smaller pieces if serving as part of a dessert spread – this cake is rich, so a little goes a long way!
Expert Tips for Success
Storage secrets: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Make-ahead magic: You can prepare this cake a day in advance – just cover tightly with plastic wrap and store at room temperature.
Texture tweaks: For an extra gooey center, slightly underbake by 2-3 minutes. For a firmer texture, bake an additional 3-5 minutes until the center is just set.
Flavor variations: Try these delicious twists:
- Lemon version: Use lemon cake mix and add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice to the gooey layer
- Chocolate twist: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the gooey mixture
- Almond delight: Replace vanilla with almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking
Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t skip softening the cream cheese – cold cream cheese will create lumps. Also, resist the urge to overbake – the center should still jiggle slightly when done.
Common Questions
Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly. An 8×8 pan will need 45-50 minutes, while individual ramekins need about 20-25 minutes. The cake should be thicker in smaller pans.
Why is my gooey layer not gooey enough?
This usually happens from overbaking. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven. Remember, it continues cooking from residual heat as it cools.
Can I freeze gooey butter cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
While cream cheese creates the signature texture, you can substitute with an equal amount of softened butter plus 2 tablespoons of sour cream, though the texture will be slightly different.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The edges should be set and lightly golden, while the center has just a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs – not completely clean.
Final Thoughts
This gooey butter cake recipe is pure magic in dessert form – simple ingredients transform into something absolutely irresistible! The combination of the tender cake base and that signature gooey top layer creates a texture that’s uniquely satisfying. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to dessert for everything from casual family dinners to special celebrations.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. Even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results, and the end product never fails to impress. Plus, with basic pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, you’re always just an hour away from dessert heaven.
Ready to experience the gooey goodness for yourself? Grab your ingredients and get baking – your taste buds will thank you! And don’t forget to share a photo of your creation – there’s nothing quite like that first slice to show off this incredible cake.
