Description
This Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, luscious dessert featuring a buttery yellow cake crust topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese mixture. Baked to perfection, it offers a delightfully gooey texture with a slightly golden top and a soft, slightly jiggly center. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat, this classic Midwestern dessert is easy to prepare and yields 12 decadent squares.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 pound)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until fully combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the cake crust.
- Prepare the Topping: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a mixer. Add in the 2 eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Gradually add the powdered sugar and melted butter, continuing to mix until the topping is creamy and smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Evenly spread the cream cheese topping over the prepared crust, making sure it covers the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is set and lightly golden. The center should remain slightly jiggly for that perfect gooey texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares to serve. This ensures the gooey texture holds together well.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth topping without lumps.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to maintain the gooey consistency.
- For an extra touch, dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
