Gooey butter cake is a decadent dessert that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. This rich and flavorful cake combines a buttery crust with a gooey, cream cheese filling, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and baking time is approximately 40-45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of gooey butter cake (approximately 1 slice) contains around 350 calories, 20g fat, 42g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. This nutritional information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until smooth.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the cream cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious gooey butter cake with family and friends!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free. Additionally, using alternative sweeteners can reduce the sugar content for a healthier option.
Serving and Pairings
Gooey butter cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover gooey butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can result in a tough texture.
- Not letting the cake cool before cutting can make it messy.
- Using cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in the filling.
- Underbaking can make the cake too gooey; ensure it’s set around the edges.
- Forgetting to grease the pan may cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- For a richer flavor, add a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture.
- Experiment with different cake mixes for unique flavors.
- Top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQs
What makes gooey butter cake different from regular cake?
Gooey butter cake features a unique texture with a dense, buttery crust and a creamy filling, whereas regular cakes are typically lighter and fluffier. This cake is known for its rich, gooey center, making it a distinct treat.
Can I freeze gooey butter cake?
Yes, you can freeze gooey butter cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
The cake is done when the edges are golden brown, and the center has set but is still slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of cake mix to create a unique version of gooey butter cake. Chocolate or lemon cake mixes work particularly well.
How should I serve gooey butter cake?
Serve gooey butter cake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. Pair it with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Conclusion
Gooey butter cake is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual evening at home, this cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the gooey goodness and share it with loved ones!
Gooey Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until smooth.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the cream cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious gooey butter cake with family and friends!
