There’s something magical about gooey butter cake. Imagine a dessert that’s part cake and part custard, with a texture so rich and creamy it practically melts in your mouth. blondies with white chocolate The sweet aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising a blissful experience. For more inspiration, check out this delicious chocolate brownies recipe.
This delightful treat is not just for special occasions; it’s perfect for cozy evenings at home, gatherings with friends, or even when you’re simply craving something sweet. I vividly remember the first time I tried it at my grandma’s house. She served it warm, and as I took my first bite, I felt like I had discovered the ultimate comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Gooey butter cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute cravings
- Its rich flavor profile combines sweetness with a hint of buttery goodness, leaving you wanting more
- The visual appeal of its golden top and gooey center makes it a showstopper on any dessert table
- This versatile dessert can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it suitable for any occasion
I still remember the look on my friends’ faces when I brought this dessert to our game night—pure bliss!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor; it adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar works perfectly here, providing sweetness that balances with the other flavors.
- Eggs: You’ll need three large eggs; they help bind everything together while creating that gooey texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Choose pure vanilla extract for an aromatic kick that elevates the flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour helps create a sturdy base while keeping the texture light.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that gives the cake its lift and fluffy texture.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a creamy tanginess that enhances the overall richness.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweet dusting on top is essential for that classic gooey butter cake finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. pumpkin bread recipe. pumpkin hazelnut pie pumpkin spice snickerdoodles.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat and Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Create the Base Batter: In a large mixing bowl, blend melted unsalted butter with granulated sugar until creamy. The mixture should have a smooth consistency and smell heavenly.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. Mix until well combined; you’ll see a lovely glossy batter forming.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in flour and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want that luscious texture!
Melt in Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully incorporated; this will be your gooey layer.
Assemble and Bake : Pour half of the batter into your prepared dish. Spread cream cheese mixture on top, then pour remaining batter over it. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the middle.
Let it cool slightly before slicing into squares and serving! Enjoy warm or chilled—either way, it’s pure bliss!
You Must Know
- Gooey butter cake is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that will impress everyone
- It’s an easy yet indulgent dessert, perfect for any occasion
- Its gooey center and buttery crust make it utterly irresistible, ensuring you’ll be the star of any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish with non-stick spray or butter before mixing the batter for easier release.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out plain cream cheese for flavored varieties, or add chocolate chips for an extra treat. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can elevate the presentation.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover gooey butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat individual slices for 10 seconds in the microwave to restore that gooey goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter; this ensures better mixing and a lighter texture
- Avoid overbaking to retain that signature gooeyness; check doneness by gently shaking the pan
- Let it cool completely before slicing to maintain clean edges
The first time I made gooey butter cake, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their ecstatic reactions made my baking efforts feel like a sweet victory.
FAQ
What is gooey butter cake?
Gooey butter cake is a rich dessert made with a buttery crust and creamy filling. For more inspiration, check out this Valentine’s Day dessert board recipe.
How long does it take to bake gooey butter cake?
Bake gooey butter cake for approximately 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Can I freeze leftover gooey butter cake?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.



