Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of gooey butter cake, a classic dessert that boasts a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence.
While most of the ingredients for this gooey butter cake are common pantry staples, you may need to pick up a few items at the supermarket. Cream cheese is essential for the creamy topping, and powdered sugar gives it that perfect sweetness. Make sure you have a box of yellow cake mix on hand, as it forms the base of this delicious dessert.

Ingredients For Gooey Butter Cake
Yellow cake mix: This is the foundation of the cake base, providing a sweet and moist texture.
Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the cake mix together.
Eggs: Used in both the cake base and the cream cheese mixture to provide structure and moisture.
Cream cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy layer on top of the cake base.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer and gives it a smooth texture.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the cake mix base, ensure that the butter is fully melted and mixed thoroughly with the egg and cake mix. This will create a uniform and cohesive base that will bake evenly. For the cream cheese layer, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating it. This will help achieve a smooth and lump-free mixture. When adding the powdered sugar, do so gradually to avoid a messy kitchen and to ensure it incorporates well into the cream cheese mixture. Finally, when spreading the cream cheese mixture over the cake base, use a spatula to create an even layer, which will result in a consistent texture throughout the gooey butter cake.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
yellow cake mix - Substitute with white cake mix: The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still provide a similar texture and sweetness.
yellow cake mix - Substitute with homemade cake mix: Combine 2 cups flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt to create a homemade version.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity and will provide a similar texture and moisture.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil will add a slight coconut flavor but will keep the cake moist.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water to replace one egg. This is a good option for a vegan alternative.
cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone has a similar texture and richness but is slightly sweeter.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Use full-fat Greek yogurt to maintain the creamy texture, though the flavor will be tangier.
large eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup applesauce per egg for a moist texture and slight apple flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract will give a different but pleasant flavor profile.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Blend granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a powdered consistency.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cake
How To Store or Freeze This Cake
To keep your gooey butter cake fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will maintain its moist and gooey texture for up to 3 days.
If you prefer to refrigerate, place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This method will extend its shelf life to about a week, but be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the cake's texture, making it a bit firmer.
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the cake's flavor and texture.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen gooey butter cake, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the cake's moisture and gooey consistency.
If you need to thaw it quickly, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours. However, avoid using a microwave to thaw the cake, as this can cause uneven heating and potentially alter the texture.
For individual servings, consider slicing the cake before freezing. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily grab a piece whenever you crave a sweet treat without having to thaw the entire cake.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the gooey butter cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a slice of the gooey butter cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking to ensure it doesn't overheat.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the gooey butter cake in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even warming.
For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the gooey butter cake in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are evenly warmed.
Essential Tools for Making This Cake
Oven: Used to bake the gooey butter cake at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).
Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg for the base layer.
Mixing bowl: Another bowl is required to beat the cream cheese and mix it with the eggs, vanilla, and powdered sugar.
Hand mixer: Useful for beating the cream cheese until smooth and for mixing the cream cheese mixture thoroughly.
Spatula: Helps in spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake base.
Baking pan: The greased pan where the cake base is pressed into and the cream cheese mixture is poured over.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure out the vanilla extract accurately.
Measuring cups: Useful for measuring the powdered sugar and other ingredients if needed.
Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking.
Non-stick spray: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
How to Save Time on Making This Cake
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently combine the cake mix and cream cheese mixture.
Soften cream cheese quickly: Microwave cream cheese for 15-20 seconds to soften it faster.
Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
Make ahead: Prepare the cake base and cream cheese mixture the night before and store in the fridge.

Gooey Butter Cake
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 stick Butter, melted
- 1 large Egg
Filling
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 16 oz Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix well and press into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla, and powdered sugar, and mix until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Cake
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